​​The Early Development Project Finance Manager supports financial management and analysis across early-stage R&D programs, including Discovery, Preclinical, and IND-enabling activities. 

​The role focuses on delivering high-quality program finance within a structured model, ensuring that financial outputs are accurate, well-controlled, and aligned to underlying program activity. This includes ownership of forecasting, budgeting, and financial tracking for assigned programs. 

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​Operating as part of the R&D Project Finance team, the role combines financial control, planning, and structured analysis to support a clear understanding of cost drivers, risks, and program performance. 

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​This is not a traditional business partnering or reporting role. It focuses on executing program finance activities while supporting insight and decision-making through reliable, consistent financial data. 

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​​Essential Functions/Responsibilities 

• ​Perform monthly accruals for early development project contracts, ensuring alignment with budgets and project timelines. 

• ​Own the financial planning, forecasting, and performance management for assigned early development programs, ensuring alignment with portfolio priorities and financial targets. 

• ​Provide financial challenge and guidance to R&D leaders on investment decisions, resource allocation, and trade-offs across the early development portfolio. 

• ​Lead development and ongoing management of project budgets and forecasts, proactively identifying risks, opportunities, and required adjustments. 

• ​Develop scenarios and financial models to support pipeline decisions, including progression, delay, or termination of early-stage programs. 

• ​Support development, management, and tracking of budgets, working closely with operations teams to ensure financial efficiency and accuracy. 

• ​Prepare and post monthly and quarterly journal entries and prepaid journal entries for Early Development Projects 

• ​Review and approve contracts and amendments, ensuring financial terms and conditions align with company policies. 

• ​Assist in preparing financial reports and analyses related to projects, contributing to management decision-making. 

• ​Act as a finance partner between the Finance and Early Development Project teams, fostering collaboration and providing financial guidance for trial activities. 

• ​Ensure proper internal control structure and adherence to internal controls in assigned areas as needed. 

• ​Other duties as assigned. 

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​Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities  

• ​Extensive experience in accounting and/or finance related positions.  

• ​Experience in pharmaceutical or biotech is essential. 

• ​Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field. MBA or advanced degree is a plus. 

• ​Advanced financial modeling and analytical skills. 

• ​Ability to work independently with minimal supervision. 

• ​Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and applicable financial systems and software applications.  Knowledge of Oracle is a plus. 

• ​In-depth knowledge of accounting principles, financial statement analysis, and management reporting. 

• ​Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. 

• ​Strong stakeholder relationship management skills. 

• ​Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and a results-driven mindset.