Manager, Finance

Job Summary:

MEI Pharma is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company committed to the development and commercialization of novel, best-in-class, cancer therapies intended to improve outcomes for patients. Our approach is to fully understand and leverage the mechanisms and properties of our drug candidates to optimize the balance between efficacy and tolerability to best meet the needs of patients with cancer.

We are expanding our Finance team and seek a motivated and resourceful, Finance Manager. Reporting to the Director of Finance & Accounting, this position requires an in-depth knowledge of accounting, internal controls, and both internal and external financial reporting. The ability to work in collaborative manner with peers, auditors, strategic partners, and to effectively communicate with various levels of management and external service providers is a must. A proven critical thinker, the Finance Manager possesses a "can do" attitude and desire to continually enhance and improve financial processes, embracing a strong team environment.

Role and Responsibilities (Include but not limited to):

• Manage the month-end, quarter-end and year-end accounting close process and ensure close process is performed in a timely, accurate and auditable manner
• Responsible for close activities including reviewing or preparing journal entries and reconciliations for various transactions and accounts including but not limited to payroll, accrued R&D contracts, accrued clinical trial expenses, operating and investment accounts
• Manage review of general ledger account reconciliations and ensure understanding, cause, and appropriateness of all reconciling items
• Oversee accounting operations ensuring data integrity, completeness and accuracy
• Review the reasonableness of accounting estimates and that the assumptions and sources for those estimates are valid
• Ensure completeness and proper accounting of material contracts (with customers and vendors), expenses, reimbursements and overall activities related to clinical trials, and other research and development related activities
• Responsible for chart of accounts and projects maintenance
• Prepare monthly and quarterly financial statements
• Manage the close calendar each period and coordinate deadlines within the department and communicate status to other departments impacted throughout the close cycle
• Conduct variance analysis, including budget to actual and budget to forecast fluctuations
• Assist in preparation of information for SEC filings
• Ensure completeness and proper accounting of material contracts (with customers and vendors), expenses, reimbursements and overall activities related to clinical trials, and other research and development related activities
• Prepare monthly billings and financial status reports to joint venture partners
• Collaborate with contract/project owners to gain an understanding of contracts and work orders to ensure proper accounting
• Analyze existing processes, work closely with staff, management and cross-functionally to streamline current systems, leverage new finance-related information technology tools, and refine standard operating procedures to provide maximum benefit to the organization
• Oversee 1099 annual reporting requirements
• Manage audit and tax reporting requirements
• Assist in the coordination of quarterly reviews and year-end financial audit process performed by external auditors and coordinate preparation and review of audit support
• Prepare property tax returns, franchise tax returns, sales/use tax returns, and is involved with income tax return preparation
• Develop, implement and ensure adherence to operational procedures
• Ensure accuracy and compliance with GAAP, SOX and company policies and procedures
• Participate and support the design, implementation and maintenance of Sarbanes/Oxley internal control requirements.
• Proactively recognize, investigate and act to resolve discrepancies; utilize critical thinking to ensure accurate data and quality processing.
• Other duties, as assigned or required

Qualifications:

• Pharmaceutical company experience includes clinical trial activities and various stages of research and development activities
• Experience with clinical accrual accounting required
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Proficient computer skills; competency with Excel, Word, Outlook, NetSuite, Adaptive and Concur preferred

Job Requirements and Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance. CPA preferred or equivalent experience
• A minimum of 5 years of progressive work experience, including experience in public accounting and private sector, preferably in a life  sciences/pharmaceutical/biotechnology environment

ADA Notations:

• Ability to sit for long periods of time, handling, feeling with hands, reaching with arms
• Regular communication (hearing/speaking)
• Lifting up to 25 lbs
• Routine office duties including computer keyboard use
• Vision requirements include close vision and ability to focus
• Noise conditions range from quiet to moderate