Director of Finance

The Director of Finance reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and holds both strategic and operational financial responsibilities. The Director of Finance will have a proven track record in biotech and public market entry, with direct experience in preparing for an initial public offering (IPO) and uplisting onto major exchanges such as NASDAQ. The Director of Finance will work alongside the CEO in planning, implementing, managing, and controlling all finance-related activities of the company. This includes direct responsibility for day-to-day accounting and finance needs, forecasting, strategic tax planning, compliance, corporate governance, and fundraising.

Key Accountabilities:

• Oversees and directs treasury, budgeting, audit, tax, accounting, shareholder ledger, investment, and insurance activities for the organization.
• The Director of Finance reports directly to the CEO and is also accountable to the Board of Directors, potentially receiving direct requests from the Board Chairman or the Head of Finance/Audit Committee.

Strategic/External Finance Role:

• Provides leadership in the development and execution of short- and long-term strategic financial goals, as well as an annual operating plan. Evaluates and develops financial and funding strategies that align with the company's objectives.
• Provides leadership in financial analysis of strategic partnerships and offers recommendations to enhance financial performance and business opportunities.
• Supports the CEO and executive team in preparing the company for an initial public offering (IPO) and entry into public markets. This includes leading the development of internal controls, policies, committees, and engagement with appropriate advisors.

Fundraising:

• Collaborates with the CEO and Investor Relations (IR) team to establish and maintain relationships with stockholders, financial institutions, and the investment community.
• Works with the CEO and management to develop budget forecasts and allocate funds for investors.
• Leads and manages all financial and corporate aspects of due diligence.
• Oversees and manages the closing of financings, including liaising with corporate counsel where necessary.

Internal Finance Role:

• Oversees all aspects of the Finance & Accounting team and its function within the organization.
• Reviews and approves payment of Accounts Payables, ensuring compliance with established policies. The incumbent has authority to sign bank checks/drafts and execute bank transfers.
• Appraises the organization's financial position and issues periodic financial and operating reports, including month-end and year-end financial statements. Oversees and directs the preparation and issuance of the corporation's Annual Report.
• Directs and coordinates the administration of budget programs. Analyzes, consolidates, and directs all cost accounting procedures along with other statistical and routine reports.
• Ensures the credibility and integrity of the Finance team.
• Ensures effective internal controls are in place and compliance with GAAP, as well as applicable federal, state, and local regulatory laws for financial and tax reporting.
• Provides the management team with support on client negotiations and advice on the financial implications of business activities.
• Responsible for providing and directing procedures and systems necessary to maintain proper records and ensure adequate accounting controls and services. This includes administering Financial Reporting Systems with controls and standards to safeguard company assets and ensure compliance with applicable accounting and auditing standards, as well as tax regulations. Coordinates the engagement and completion of the annual audit by the external auditor selected by the Board.
• Directs and analyzes studies of general economic, business, and financial conditions and their impact on the organization's policies and operations. Participates in the development of corporate strategic plans and objectives. Provides strategic financial guidance on issues such as the evaluation of potential alliances, acquisitions, and/or mergers.
• Manages the finance team and carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.
• Responsible for general Corporate Administration, ensuring compliance with federal and state laws and regulations, as well as the Corporate Charter and Bylaws. Creates and maintains legal records of all corporate and Board actions, including Board meeting minutes, Board resolutions, Shareholder resolutions, and the cap table.

Requirements:

• At least a Bachelor in Accounting, Finance or related discipline
• CPA or MBA preferred
• Minimum 15 years of relevant work experience
• Prior experience in global life sciences/biotech/pharmaceutical MNCs preferred
• Prior experience with IPO and fundraising preferred
• Ability to have a big picture view while having attention to details
• Ability to maintain discretion and high-level of confidentiality
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent organisational skills and ability to multi-task
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint)
• Experience with Great Plains/Microsoft Dynamics preferred