Assistant Controller

About us

Photys is an exciting early-stage biotechnology company developing novel bifunctional small molecules for fine-tuned control of post-translational modifications beyond ubiquitination. Building off the same principles that underpin PROTACs, we will unlock directed protein post-translational modifications as a disease-agnostic therapeutic strategy to treat oncology, immunological diseases, metabolic diseases as well as genetic disorders.

About the opportunity... 

We are seeking an Assistant Controller who will play a critical role in the strategy and growth of our Finance & Accounting team. Reporting to the VP, Finance, the Assistant Controller will be responsible for the overall accounting and reporting activities of Photys managing the day-to-day financial operations, including accounts payable, payroll, and general ledger functions. As the key driver to streamline our month-end close process while maintaining accuracy of our financial results, the role ensures internal control and compliance and will developing policies and procedures and participates in system implementation and other special projects, as assigned. 

What you will do... 

• Manage the day-to-day accounting functions, including accounts payable, fixed assets, payroll, and cash management. 
• Lead the monthly/quarterly/annual financial close ensuring completeness, timeliness, and accuracy. 
• Preparation and/or review of monthly journal entries, including entries related to external contractual obligations and stock-based compensation.  
• Prepare consolidation including international subsidiary. 
• Prepare and present internal and external financial reports to management and investors in accordance with GAAP. 
• Act as a liaison for external auditors. 
• Play a critical role in the preparation and presentation of the annual budget, forecast updates and long-range plans. 
• Implement accounting policies and internal controls.  
• Assist in the evaluation of financial systems and lead implementation efforts. 
• Oversee federal, state, and local tax return preparation as well as tax provision. 
• Provide support for Board presentations as needed. 
• Maintain knowledge of FASB pronouncements that impact the Company. 
• Maintain a basic understanding of the Company’s Corporate and R&D operations. 
• Research technical accounting issues for compliance as needed. 
• Help build and manage a team of high performing professionals. 
• Assist with other projects as needed. 

About you... 

• 5+ years of relevant and progressive work experience, preferably in the biotech/life sciences environment. 
• BA/BS in Accounting or Finance. 
• CPA, with Big 4 or large regional firm experience a plus. 
• Strong technical (US GAAP) accounting background. 
• NetSuite/Adaptive ERP experience preferred. 
• Excellent analytical, problem solving and critical thinking skills, including an ability to combine attention to detail with a big picture perspective. 
• Strong oral and written communication skills with experience presenting information and data both internally across all levels of the organization and externally to other interested parties. 
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, innovative, and, at times, uncertain or changing environment while remaining flexible, proactive, and resourceful. 
• Adept at prioritizing and managing multiple tasks simultaneously, integrating cross-functional issues, and balancing competing priorities effectively.  
• Collaborative and team-oriented mindset with a desire to positively impact a new company’s evolving culture.