Controller

OUR MISSION AND VISION Unlearn 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 TEAM We 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 quo - Unlearners 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 ROLE We are seeking a hands-on Controller who thrives in a fast-paced, high-growth environment at the intersection of biotech and software. This is a critical individual contributor role where you will be responsible for all core accounting operations, systems, and compliance while partnering with our FP&A leader on financial planning initiatives. You will own and execute the full accounting function from month-end close in NetSuite to payroll processing, AP/AR, legal contract reviews, and audit preparation Reporting directly to the CFO/COO this is a high impact role where you will support strategic planning, fund raising, financial diligence and scaling the company to the next stage of growth. WHAT YOU'LL OWN CORE ACCOUNTING OPERATIONS - Execute monthly close, journal entries, reconciliations, and financial reporting in NetSuite - Manage full-cycle AP/AR, including vendor payments, customer invoicing, and cash management - Process bi-weekly payroll and benefits administration - Maintain general ledger integrity, chart of accounts, and supporting documentation TECHNICAL ACCOUNTING & COMPLIANCE - Apply technical revenue recognition standards (ASC 606) for SaaS and professional services contracts - Review customer contracts, licensing agreements, and vendor MSAs for financial implications - Coordinate annual audits, prepare schedules, and serve as primary auditor liaison - Ensure compliance with GAAP, tax filings, and regulatory requirements FUNDRAISING & FINANCIAL SUPPORT - Support financial due diligence for fundraising rounds (Series D+, potential IPO) - Prepare schedules, data room materials, and responses to investor diligence requests - Partner with FP&A on budget vs. actual analysis and management reporting Systems & Process Improvement - Optimize NetSuite workflows, automation, and integrations (Salesforce, billing platforms, HRIS) - Implement controls, documentation, and SOX-ready processes as the company scales - Drive operational efficiency improvements across procurement, expense management, and financial reporting WHAT YOU BRING REQUIRED EXPERIENCE - 8-12 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 industry - Experience in pharma/biotech AND software/SaaS— you understand both clinical development/R&D accounting and recurring revenue models - Exposure to multiple financing rounds and/or IPO readiness— you've supported due diligence processes and built audit-ready financials - CPA required (active or inactive) TECHNICAL SKILLS - Strong technical accounting knowledge (ASC 606, ASC 842, ASC 718, revenue recognition, stock-based compensation) - Advanced Excel/Google Sheets and financial modeling capabilities - NetSuite proficiency, you can configure modules, build custom reports, and optimize workflows without external consultants - Experience with close management tools (FloQast, DataRails) and financial systems integrations - Familiarity with Salesforce, modern HRIS platforms (Rippling, Workday), and BI tools PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES - Hands-on execution mindset— comfortable reviewing contracts, processing payroll, and negotiating with vendors - Detail-obsessed with technical rigor— you ensure accuracy in reconciliations and proper application of GAAP - Adaptable problem-solver— you thrive in ambiguity and find efficient solutions to operational challenges - Clear communicator— you can explain complex accounting issues to non- finance stakeholders IDEAL CANDIDATE You've likely held Controller, Assistant Controller, or Director of Accounting roles at public/venture-backed startups or high-growth companies. You may have started in Big 4 audit (life sciences or tech practice) before transitioning to industry. You've been through at least one major financing event (Series B+ or IPO readiness) and know how to support rigorous due diligence processes. YOU'RE EQUALLY COMFORTABLE: - Drafting a technical revenue recognition memo for a multi-year contract - Configuring NetSuite workflows and building custom reports - Closing the books in 3 days with full reconciliation support - Managing vendor relationships and optimizing payment terms BENEFITS & PERKS The following benefits and perks are for full time roles only. - Generous equity participation - 100% company-covered medical, dental, & vision insurance plans - 401k plan with matching - Flexible PTO plus company holidays - Annual company-wide break December 24 through January 1 - Commuter benefits - Paid Parental Leave Unlearn 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.