Controller

Controller
Raleigh/Durham, NC area
Reports To: CFO

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Controller to join our dynamic and growing team at SAGA Diagnostics, a cutting-edge cancer diagnostics biotech start-up. The ideal candidate will play a critical role in establishing and overseeing the finance operations of our company, ensuring robust financial controls and processes are in place. As we scale, the Controller will be responsible for setting up payroll systems and ensuring effective financial management, reporting, and compliance. This position offers an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in the healthcare sector while building finance infrastructure from the ground up.

Key Responsibilities:

Establish and Manage Finance Operations:

• Set up and optimize core finance processes, including financial reporting, development and oversight of periodic close processes and controls, cash management, and management of staff.
• Implement best practices for scalable financial controls and compliance.
• Contribute to the implementation of, and ultimately manage, ERP system.
• Develop and maintain accurate financial records for the company, ensuring timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting.

Payroll Setup and Management:

• Lead the design and implementation of controls and supervise the processing of payroll, ensuring accurate and timely processing for all employees.
• Manage payroll compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Coordinate employee benefit administration and deductions.

Financial Reporting and Analysis:

• Oversee the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Lead annual audits, domestic and international.
• Manage the preparation of tax filings, domestic and international.
• Provide detailed financial analysis to support key decision-making by the leadership team.
• Monitor and report on company financial performance, highlighting potential risks or areas for improvement.

Budgeting and Forecasting:

• Provide input into the company’s annual budget, working closely with department heads to ensure alignment with business goals.
• Provide ongoing financial forecasting and variance analysis, ensuring alignment with operational objectives.

Cash Flow and Working Capital Management:

• Manage the company’s cash flow to ensure liquidity and support operational needs.
• Optimize working capital management, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, and inventory.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements, including tax filings and financial audits.
• Work with external auditors and tax advisors to ensure accurate and timely reporting and filing.
• Implement internal controls to safeguard company assets.

Team Collaboration and Leadership:

• Work closely with the leadership team to align financial strategies with the company’s overall business objectives.
• Help foster a culture of financial transparency and accountability across the organization.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior finance team members as the company grows.

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in a finance or accounting role, with at least 2 years in a controller or similar leadership position.
• Experience in setting up and managing financial operations, ideally in a start-up or life sciences environment.
• Strong understanding of and proficiency in financial systems, GAAP, SEC rules and regulations, tax compliance, and employee benefit administration.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to provide actionable insights.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-evolving environment and work collaboratively with a small, cross-functional team.
• Strong desire for upward career development.
• Detail-oriented, with a strong focus on accuracy and compliance.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (CPA or equivalent preferred).

What We Offer:

• Competitive Compensation and benefits

• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development.

• A collaborative and innovative work environment dedicated to improving oncology outcomes.