Director, Clinical Trial Finance

Our client, a publicly traded life sciences company, is seeking a Director of Clinical Trial Finance to lead financial planning, forecasting, and oversight activities across a portfolio of clinical development programs. This position is based in San Francisco, CA and follows a hybrid work schedule, with in-office expectations 3 days per week.

About the Role

This highly visible role serves as a strategic partner to Clinical Operations, Development, FP&A, and Accounting teams, helping ensure strong financial governance, accurate reporting, and data-driven decision-making. The ideal candidate combines deep clinical finance expertise with strong business partnering skills and thrives in a collaborative, growth-oriented environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead budgeting, forecasting, long-range planning, and financial analysis activities for clinical development programs.
• Oversee financial management of clinical trial expenditures, including accruals, variance analysis, and financial performance monitoring.
• Partner closely with Clinical Operations, Development, Program Management, FP&A, and Accounting teams to support strategic and operational decision-making.
• Manage financial oversight of clinical trial contracts, amendments, and third-party vendor relationships.
• Support financial close processes including reconciliations, reporting, and clinical trial cost accounting activities.
• Develop financial models, scenario analyses, and reporting tools to enhance visibility into key operational and financial drivers.
• Support audit readiness efforts and collaborate with internal and external auditors as needed.
• Drive process improvements, strengthen internal controls, and enhance financial systems and reporting capabilities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, or a related field; CPA or MBA preferred.
• 10+ years of finance and accounting experience, including significant experience supporting clinical development programs within the life sciences industry.
• Deep understanding of clinical trial budgeting, forecasting, accruals, and financial management.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP, financial reporting, internal controls, and audit support.
• Advanced financial modeling, forecasting, analytical, and business partnering skills.
• Experience managing relationships with external vendors and service providers.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience supporting global operations and multi-currency environments is a plus.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• Company’s 401(k) retirement plan
• Eligibility for discretionary bonuses

Pay

The salary range for this role is disclosed as required by local law in geographies that mandate it. Compensation depends on factors including the individual's skill sets, experience, training, licensure, certifications, office location, and other business and organizational needs.