Sr. Director of Accounting

The Position:

We’re seeking an accomplished, hands-on Senior Director of Accounting to lead and scale our global accounting function. This role is responsible for end‑to‑end accounting operations including payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, general accounting, consolidation, SEC reporting, and stock administration. As a senior leader within Finance, you will partner closely with executive leadership, FP&A, Legal, HR, and external auditors to ensure accurate financial reporting, strong internal controls, and scalable systems and processes. This is a highly visible role for someone who combines deep technical accounting expertise with a passion for process improvement and building high‑performing teams.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight for all core accounting functions, including payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, and month‑end close.
• Own the global close and consolidation process, ensuring timely, accurate, and compliant financial statements.
• Lead all external financial reporting, including SEC filings (10‑K, 10‑Q, 8‑K), technical accounting memos, and coordination with external auditors.
• Oversee stock administration and equity accounting, including ASC 718 compliance and collaboration with Legal, HR, and third‑party administrators.
• Establish, maintain, and continuously improve internal controls, accounting policies, and procedures to support SOX compliance and audit readiness.
• Drive systems and process improvements across accounting and payroll, leveraging technology to improve efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.
• Partner with FP&A and business leaders to support budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis with accurate and timely actuals.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing accounting team, fostering accountability, collaboration, and professional growth.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on accounting, reporting, and compliance matters.
• Manage relationships with external auditors, tax advisors, payroll providers, and other third‑party partners.
• Proactively identify risks, opportunities, and improvements as the business grows and evolves

Who You Are:

Required Qualifications

• 12+ years of progressive accounting experience, including leadership roles in public company or late‑stage private company environments. 
• Deep expertise in U.S. GAAP, SEC reporting, consolidation, and technical accounting.
• Proven experience overseeing payroll, AP, AR, and general accounting at scale.
• Strong understanding of equity and stock‑based compensation accounting.
• Demonstrated success leading month‑end close and audit processes with accuracy and discipline.
• Experience driving systems implementations and process improvements (ERP, payroll, close automation, or reporting tools).
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• High degree of integrity, judgment, and attention to detail. 
• CPA required. Preferred Qualifications
• Experience in biotech, life sciences, or other highly regulated industries.
• Prior experience supporting a high‑growth or newly public company.
• Background in SOX implementation or optimization.
• Experience with global or multi‑entity accounting structures.
• Passion for building scalable processes and developing strong teams

#LI-Hybrid, or #LI-Remote

For candidates based in our San Diego office, the salary is $220,500 - 250,000.

For candidates working remote (US), the salary or hourly range is $215,000 - 240,000.