Corporate Controller

About Xaira Therapeutics

Xaira is an innovative biotech startup focused on leveraging AI to transform drug discovery and development. The company is leading the development of generative AI models to design protein and antibody therapeutics, enabling the creation of medicines against historically hard-to-drug molecular targets. It is also developing foundation models for biology and disease to enable better target elucidation and patient stratification. Collectively, these technologies aim to continually enable the identification of novel therapies and to improve success in drug development. Xaira is headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle, and London.

About the Role 

As the Corporate Controller, you will be Xaira’s first in-house accounting hire, and will play a foundational role in building and shaping the accounting function from the ground up. Reporting directly to the Head of Finance, you will lead the design and implementation of the Xaira’s accounting systems, processes, policies, and controls to support our rapid growth and operational needs. You will oversee a team of contractors supporting day to day functions while laying the groundwork for an in-house team that you will build and grow over time. This is a hands-on, high-impact role where you will have the unique opportunity to create scalable systems, establish best practices, and drive the development of a robust accounting infrastructure that positions Xaira for long-term success.

Key Responsibilities

• Build, implement, and maintain scalable accounting policies, processes, and controls in compliance with US GAAP
• Prepare financial statements and provide key financial insights for internal and external stakeholders, including Executive Team, Board Members, and Investors.
• Lead and oversee the company’s audit processes, ensuring readiness, accuracy, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Partner with and support the HR team on payroll, benefits administration, and other employee-related accounting needs.
• Oversee equity administration, partnering with outside counsel on matters including: stock option accounting, tracking, and compliance with equity plans and regulations
• Manage the company’s 409A valuation process in collaboration with external partners
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support strategic initiatives including R&D activities, business development efforts, and procurement
• Lead implementation and development of accounting systems and tools to support company growth and needs
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, including tax filings, audit readiness, and financial reporting standards.
• Manage and optimize cash flow forecasting in collaboration with FP&A 
• Manage third party accounting firm supporting day to day accounting operations including accounts payable and payroll
• Develop and mentor a high-performing accounting team as the company grows

Qualifications

• CPA designation required (inactive okay); Big 4 or public accounting experience strongly preferred.
• 10+ years progressive accounting experience, with a minimum of 5 years in a leadership role
• Strong knowledge of US GAAP, with experience in technical accounting standards, equity accounting, and practical application of accounting principles in a growth-stage company.
• Proven experience building and scaling the Accounting function in a high-growth environment.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet tight deadlines
• Demonstrated ability to manage external service providers and cross functional relationships.
• Self-starter with a collaborative mindset and a passion for working in a mission-driven organization

Compensation

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, seeking to provide an open, flexible, and friendly work environment to empower employees and provide them with a platform to develop their long-term careers. A Summary of Benefits is available for all applicants. We offer a competitive package that includes base salary, bonus, and equity. The base pay range for this position is expected to be $175,000 - $245,000 annually; however, the base pay offered may vary depending on the market, job-related knowledge, skills and capabilities, and experience.

Xaira Therapeutics an equal-opportunity employer. We believe that our strength is in our differences. Our goal to build a diverse and inclusive team began on day one, and it will never end.

TO ALL RECRUITMENT AGENCIES: Xaira Therapeutics does not accept agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias or employees. Xaira Therapeutics is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.