Controller

Our Mission and VisionUnlearn exists to transform clinical development by making every trial smarter. We harness data, AI, and digital twins to enable faster, more robust studies that bring life-saving treatments to patients faster. This mission drives everything we do as we partner with biopharmaceutical companies to redesign how clinical trials are planned, run, and analyzed.We are defining the future of clinical development with unmatched scientific credibility, replacing uncertainty with AI-powered precision so decisions are clearer and trials are stronger. We don’t just disrupt the pharmaceutical industry, we create lasting change.We believe AI will define the future of medicine, and we are committed to building that future responsibly, rigorously, and in close collaboration with our partners in clinical development.About Our TeamWe come from a variety of backgrounds ranging from machine learning to marketing—but regardless of where we come from, Unlearners share some common traits:Unlearners are ambitious; we aren’t intimidated by big, challenging goals.Unlearners are disciplined experimenters; we break down our big goals into smaller chunks and meet as often as necessary to track our velocity and iterate quickly.Unlearners are gritty; we never give up, setbacks just make us try harder.Unlearners are receptive to new ideas; in fact, we hate being stuck with the status quoUnlearners are storytellers; sharing information with each other and with the world is super important, too important to be boring. And, last but not least,Unlearners are team-oriented; we put the mission first, the company second, the team third, and individuals last.Headquartered in San Francisco, Unlearn was founded in 2017 by a team of world-class machine learning scientists. We have raised venture capital from top tier investors such as Altimeter, Insight Partners, Radical Ventures, 8VC, DCVC, and DCVC Bio, and completed our $50 million Series C in January 2024.If our purpose and culture resonate with you, we invite you to apply.The RoleWe are seeking a hands-on Controller who thrives in a fast-paced, high-growthenvironment at the intersection of biotech and software. This is a critical individualcontributor role where you will be responsible for all core accounting operations,systems, and compliance while partnering with our FP&A leader on financial planninginitiatives. You will own and execute the full accounting function from month-end closein NetSuite to payroll processing, AP/AR, legal contract reviews, and audit preparationReporting directly to the CFO/COO this is a high impact role where you will supportstrategic planning, fund raising, financial diligence and scaling the company to the nextstage of growth.What You'll OwnCore Accounting OperationsExecute monthly close, journal entries, reconciliations, and financial reporting in NetSuiteManage full-cycle AP/AR, including vendor payments, customer invoicing, and cash managementProcess bi-weekly payroll and benefits administrationMaintain general ledger integrity, chart of accounts, and supporting documentationTechnical Accounting & ComplianceApply technical revenue recognition standards (ASC 606) for SaaS and professional services contractsReview customer contracts, licensing agreements, and vendor MSAs for financial implicationsCoordinate annual audits, prepare schedules, and serve as primary auditor liaisonEnsure compliance with GAAP, tax filings, and regulatory requirementsFundraising & Financial SupportSupport financial due diligence for fundraising rounds (Series D+, potential IPO)Prepare schedules, data room materials, and responses to investor diligence requestsPartner with FP&A on budget vs. actual analysis and management reporting Systems & Process ImprovementOptimize NetSuite workflows, automation, and integrations (Salesforce, billing platforms, HRIS)Implement controls, documentation, and SOX-ready processes as the company scalesDrive operational efficiency improvements across procurement, expense management, and financial reportingWhat You BringRequired Experience8-12 years of progressive accounting experience with at least 3-5 years in senior roles (Controller, Assistant Controller, or Director of Accounting)Big 4 audit background strongly preferred— ideally with life sciences or technology client exposure before transitioning to industryExperience in pharma/biotech AND software/SaaS— you understand both clinical development/R&D accounting and recurring revenue modelsExposure to multiple financing rounds and/or IPO readiness— you've supported due diligence processes and built audit-ready financialsCPA required (active or inactive)Technical SkillsStrong technical accounting knowledge (ASC 606, ASC 842, ASC 718, revenue recognition, stock-based compensation)Advanced Excel/Google Sheets and financial modeling capabilitiesNetSuite proficiency, you can configure modules, build custom reports, and optimize workflows without external consultantsExperience with close management tools (FloQast, DataRails) and financial systems integrationsFamiliarity with Salesforce, modern HRIS platforms (Rippling, Workday), and BI toolsPersonal AttributesHands-on execution mindset— comfortable reviewing contracts, processing payroll, and negotiating with vendorsDetail-obsessed with technical rigor— you ensure accuracy in reconciliations and proper application of GAAPAdaptable problem-solver— you thrive in ambiguity and find efficient solutions to operational challengesClear communicator— you can explain complex accounting issues to non- finance stakeholdersIdeal CandidateYou've likely held Controller, Assistant Controller, or Director of Accounting roles atpublic/venture-backed startups or high-growth companies. You may have started in Big4 audit (life sciences or tech practice) before transitioning to industry. You've beenthrough at least one major financing event (Series B+ or IPO readiness) and know howto support rigorous due diligence processes.You're Equally ComfortableDrafting a technical revenue recognition memo for a multi-year contractConfiguring NetSuite workflows and building custom reportsClosing the books in 3 days with full reconciliation supportManaging vendor relationships and optimizing payment termsBenefits & PerksThe following benefits and perks are for full time roles only. Generous equity participation100% company-covered medical, dental, & vision insurance plans401k plan with matchingFlexible PTO plus company holidaysAnnual company-wide break December 24 through January 1Commuter benefits Paid Parental LeaveUnlearn is an equal opportunity employer.At Unlearn, we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, because inclusion and diversity are essential to achieving our mission. If you’re excited about this role, and your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply nevertheless.