Controller

About Us:

Solarea Bio is a commercial stage biotechnology company that has built a powerful platform using microbial discovery, genomics, and bioinformatics to rapidly deliver novel products that address chronic inflammatory conditions. The breakthrough came from the combined efforts of the company’s co-founders who established a link between an untapped source of bacteria and fungi derived from healthy foods, and their applications in inflammatory processes in the body, often with signaling or biochemical pathways originating in the gut. The first application aims to manage bone loss associated with menopause, weight, and age where diet alone is not sufficient to maintain a healthy skeleton, and natural solutions are desired. Solarea Bio's vision is to create and lead a new way to rapidly discover, develop, and launch commercial products aiding in the management of disorders where other solutions are not enough. This is a transformative opportunity to become part of a top-tier team driven by a common mission: enhancing lives through the discovery and distribution of revolutionary products firmly grounded in substantial scientific and clinical evidence.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly independent, experienced, motivated Controller to lead our accounting and finance department as we launch our first product to the market. The Controller will play a critical role in overseeing all financial operations and will be instrumental in establishing the financial framework necessary for our growth. This position will report directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and will manage a small finance team in the future. Initially, this position will have the expectation to operate as a proficient and efficient individual contributor. As a startup, there is great opportunity to grow beyond this role into more senior level management. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in biotech or pharmaceuticals and experience navigating the complexities of transitioning from a clinical to a commercial stage.

Key Responsibilities:

• Accounting: Perform daily accounting processes including journal entries, account reconciliations and general ledger transactions in order to maintain accurate financial information in the QuickBooks accounting system.
• Administer accounts payable and accounts receivable
• Financial Reporting: Prepare accurate and timely financial statements, ensuring compliance with GAAP requirements. Oversee month-end and year-end closing processes.
• Budgeting and Forecasting: Develop and maintain the annual budget, monitor performance against budget, and provide detailed variance analysis to senior management.
• Cash Flow Management: Monitor cash flow, optimize working capital, and prepare cash flow forecasts to ensure financial stability.
• Internal Controls: Establish and maintain effective internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure the integrity of financial reporting.
• Audit Coordination: Liaise with external auditors and manage the annual audit process, ensuring all documentation and reports are prepared accurately.
• Financial Analysis: Provide financial analysis and insights to support strategic decision-making
• Compliance: Ensure compliance with tax regulations and reporting requirements, including preparation of tax returns and management of tax-related issues.
• Risk Management: Identify and assess financial risks, develop risk mitigation strategies, and monitor compliance with risk management policies.
• Actively seek opportunities to improve operations and implementing internal controls

Requirements

Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field with a CPA preferable.
• At least 10 years of relevant experience, with at least 5 years of experience as an Assistant Controller or a Controller.
• Strong knowledge of financial planning, analysis, and reporting principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong experience with accounting systems including Quickbooks, NetSuite, or similar.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• High level of integrity, ethics, and professionalism.
• Superior in MS Office applications, particularly Excel, and ability to learn new applications quickly
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and maintain a high level of attention to detail while working in a fast-paced environment
• Superior organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong work ethic and personal responsibility.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses
• Unlimited paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, family leave, and bereavement
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance covered at 85% for employee and dependents
• Employer paid life and disability insurance
• Commuter expense benefit
• Retirement savings plan with access to 1-on-1 financial advisor
• Professional development and training opportunities
• A collaborative and innovative work environment
• Opportunity to make a significant impact on the biotechnology industry

Solarea Bio is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.