Sr. Manager/Associate Director, Accounting Operations (Biotech)

As the Sr. Manager/Associate Director of Accounting Operations at Septerna, your key responsibilities will include overseeing the daily accounting functions such as procure-to-pay and invoice-to-cash operations. You’ll manage the month-end close process, prepare journal entries, and ensure compliance with SOX and US GAAP standards. Additionally, you will focus on the implementation of internal controls and collaborate with external consultants to support the company’s growth and regulatory requirements.

To qualify for the Sr. Manager/Associate Director of Accounting Operations role at Septerna, you should hold a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance and ideally possess a CPA license. A minimum of 8+ years of related experience, preferably in public biotech companies, is required. Experience with R&D and complex clinical trial accruals, as well as proficiency in NetSuite, is highly preferred to ensure you hit the ground running in this critical leadership position.

While it’s not strictly necessary, experience in the biotech sector, particularly with clinical trials and R&D, significantly enhances your candidacy for the Sr. Manager/Associate Director of Accounting Operations position at Septerna. Given our focus on GPCR-targeted drug discovery, familiarity with the unique financial nuances of this industry will help you navigate the complexities of the role more effectively.

For the Sr. Manager/Associate Director of Accounting Operations role at Septerna, direct user experience with NetSuite is required. Proficiency in spreadsheets and accounting software will also be beneficial. Familiarity with financial modeling and analysis tools that aid in accrual management and tax compliance is advantageous as well.

The culture at Septerna is collaborative, innovative, and inclusive. We value diversity of thought and background, encouraging you to bring your authentic self to work every day. As a Sr. Manager/Associate Director of Accounting Operations, you will work with talented professionals in a dynamic environment where every voice is important in our collective pursuit of groundbreaking medical innovations.

At Septerna, we are committed to the continuous development and growth of our employees. As the Sr. Manager/Associate Director of Accounting Operations, you will have access to various professional development opportunities, mentorship programs, and the chance to take on increasing responsibilities as the company scales. Your contributions will not only impact the organization but help shape your career trajectory within our sector.

The anticipated salary range for the Sr. Manager/Associate Director of Accounting Operations role at Septerna is between $170,000 and $195,000. Individual pay will vary based on factors like job-related skills, experience, work location, and relevant education. Additionally, our compensation package includes a comprehensive benefits program, stock options, and an annual target bonus for full-time positions.

In answering this question, highlight your previous roles where you managed accounts payable and receivable processes. Discuss specific tools you've used, how you ensured timely payments or collections, and any experiences with streamlining operations. Illustrate your impact on the company’s cash flow and financial reporting.

To answer this question, emphasize your knowledge and experience in implementing internal control policies. Share examples of how you've identified weaknesses in current processes and successfully introduced controls that mitigated risks, ensuring compliance with standards like SOX or related regulations.

In your response, detail your systematic approach to month-end close, including key tasks you prioritize, interactions with other departments, and any automation tools you’ve implemented to enhance accuracy and efficiency. Mention the importance of thorough documentation and collaboration in your process.

When answering, point out your experience with clinical trial accounting, especially any complex accrual models you’ve constructed. It’s beneficial to demonstrate your understanding of how accruals impact financial statements and your proactive approach in communicating with clinical teams to ensure accurate reporting.

For this question, outline your methodical approach to audit preparation including timely documentation, communication with external auditors, and the way you ensure compliance across departments. Share past experiences where your preparation led to successful audit outcomes.

In your response, list all relevant tools you are familiar with, particularly focusing on NetSuite since it’s mentioned in the job requirement. Explain the functionalities you’ve utilized and how they’ve benefited your previous roles in enhancing reporting accuracy and efficiency.

Highlight your proactive mindset by discussing previous initiatives you've led or contributed to that improved efficiency in accounting processes. Describe specific improvements, the challenges you faced, and how you measured success post-implementation.

Discuss your leadership style and your focus on collaboration within the team. Provide examples of how you foster a positive working environment, resolve conflicts, and motivate your team to achieve their goals while supporting SD diversity and growth.

In your response, talk about your experience with developing, managing, and adhering to budgets in previous roles. Mention analytical techniques you use to track budget variances and any software tools that have supported your budgeting efforts.

This is a chance to show your problem-solving skills. Describe a specific situation, the factors causing the challenge, the steps you took to address it, and the outcome. Focus on your analytical approach and how you engaged stakeholders to find a solution.