Finance Lead

Overview:

About Us

Excelsior Sciences is a New York City–based startup at the forefront of technology-driven drug discovery. We combine cutting-edge advances in artificial intelligence, laboratory automation, and our proprietary chemistry platform to redefine how small-molecule leads are identified and optimized.

We're looking for a Finance Lead who's excited to build from the ground up—someone who can roll up their sleeves to run day-to-day accounting while also shaping the financial strategy of a growing biotech company. You'll be the steady hand behind our numbers and a key thought partner to leadership, turning data into insight and helping guide critical decisions as we scale. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable closing the books, refining models, and thinking creatively about how to stretch capital, support R&D, and enable growth. This is a role for a builder—someone who wants to create smart, scalable finance systems in a fast-moving, mission-driven environment.

Responsibilities:

What You'll Do

Accounting & Controller Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, inventory, payroll, CapEx and expense management.
• Develop and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls appropriate for an early-stage biotech.
• Manage the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes and ensure timely and accurate financial reporting including required financial updates for investors.
• Coordinate with external accountants, auditors, tax advisors, and other vendors to ensure compliance with GAAP, tax filings, and regulatory requirements.
• Revenue recognition policy preparation (including grants, collaborations).
• Stock-based compensation accounting (ESOP, option grants, refreshes).
• Ensure accounting systems and tools support efficient financial operations as the company evolves and grows.
• Lead reporting for state and other grants and collaborations

Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) Responsibilities

• Build and maintain the company's financial model, including operating budgets, cash flow forecasts, and long-range planning.
• Partner with the CEO and leadership team to provide financial insights, scenario analyses, and decision support.
• Track and report on key performance indicators, burn rate, and capital runway.
• Prepare board materials, investor updates, and fundraising support analyses.
• Provide financial input into strategic decisions, including R&D planning, vendor selection, and partnership opportunities.

General Finance Leadership

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all finance matters across the organization.
• Establish scalable processes, systems, and reporting that can grow with the company.
• Support human resources and operations teams on benefits, equity administration, and other employee-related financial matters.
• Ensure strong cash management practices, including oversight of bank accounts, wire transfers, and grant/non-dilutive funding tracking (if applicable).
• Comfort with board-level presentations and investor engagement.

Qualifications:

What We're Looking for

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA or MBA preferred.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in finance roles, ideally combining accounting (controller-level) and FP&A.
• Experience in life sciences/biotech strongly preferred, with an understanding of R&D operations and related accounting/finance considerations.
• Combination of public companies and start-ups experience a plus
• Demonstrated ability to operate as both a hands-on individual contributor and a strategic partner to leadership.
• Strong knowledge of US GAAP and financial reporting.
• Proficiency with financial modeling and forecasting.
• Ability to work independently in a resource-constrained, entrepreneurial environment.
• Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to be in-person twice weekly a plus.

The salary range for this position is $160,000- $250,000 per year. The actual compensation offered will be based on factors such as relevant experience, education, and skills. In addition to base salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off and other benefits.

Excelsior Sciences of New York Is an equal opportunity employer (EEO). We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to religion, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, alienage or citizenship status, national origin, age, marital status, pregnancy, disability, veteran or military status, predisposing genetic characteristics or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

Location: New York, NY