Assistant Financial Controller

Job Description

Job Description

About MP Biomedicals: 

MP Biomedicals is a global life science company with headquarters in California and regional offices across the globe. The company offers a diverse portfolio of life science products, fine chemicals, and diagnostics used in industries ranging from basic research to clinical diagnostics and pharmaceuticals. Over the past 50 years, we have provided quality tools and expert services to assist our customers in making breakthrough discoveries and achieving scientific excellence.

Company Misson Statement:

Our mission is to empower global research that unlocks life-changing solutions and inspires a meaningful life.

Company Values:

• Respect
• Meaningful Work
• Career Development
• Accountability
• Honesty

MP Biomedicals Benefits:

• Bonus Pay
• Monthly Childcare Credit
• Free breakfast on Mondays
• Free Catered Lunches Tuesday-Friday
• Paid Vacation
• Paid PTO Hours
• 10 Paid Company Holidays per Year
• 401k with Company Match
• Competitive Healthcare Benefits
• HSA
• Company Paid Life Insurance and Short-term Disability
• Learning and Development Program
• Employee Referral Program
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Discounts
• And so much more!

Position Summary

The Junior / Assistant Financial Controller supports in overseeing the company's accounting operations, financial reporting, internal controls, budgeting processes, and compliance activities. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate financial records, timely reporting, and adherence to accounting standards while serving as a key business partner to operational leaders. The ideal candidate possesses strong accounting expertise, analytical skills, and the ability to drive process improvements in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Close Process

• Lead and support monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close activities.
• Prepare and review journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules.
• Assist in the preparation of accurate and timely financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
• Analyze financial results and investigate significant variances versus budget, forecast, and prior periods.
• Maintain integrity of the general ledger and chart of accounts.

Accounting Operations

• Supervise day-to-day accounting functions including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Fixed Assets, and General Accounting.
• Ensure timely and accurate recording of financial transactions.
• Review reconciliations and financial analyses prepared by accounting staff.
• Assist in managing cash flow and working capital performance.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Analysis

• Support annual budget development and periodic forecasting processes.
• Prepare financial models, operating analyses, and management reports.
• Monitor department spending and provide insights to business leaders.
• Identify trends, risks, and opportunities to improve financial performance.

Internal Controls & Compliance

• Maintain and strengthen internal control systems and accounting procedures.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, U.S. GAAP, and applicable regulations.
• Coordinate internal and external audit activities.
• Assist in tax compliance, sales tax reporting, and other regulatory filings.

Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities to streamline accounting and reporting processes.
• Participate in ERP system enhancements and automation initiatives.
• Develop and maintain documentation for key accounting procedures.
• Support continuous improvement efforts across the finance organization.

Cash Flow & Working Capital

• Monitor cash flow performance and prepare cash forecasts.
• Support accounts receivable, accounts payable, and inventory control activities.
• Assist in analyzing working capital and operational performance metrics.

Business Support

• Provide financial analysis to support decision-making.
• Assist in identifying process improvements and automation opportunities.
• Participate in cross-functional projects and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform all other duties as assigned, including any additional responsibilities necessary to support the success of the department and organization.

Leadership & Team Development

• Mentor and support accounting staff.
• Assist with prioritizing workloads and ensuring deadlines are met.
• Foster a culture of accountability, accuracy, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
• CPA designation or active progress toward CPA strongly preferred.
• 5-8 years of progressive accounting or finance experience.
• Minimum 2 years in a senior accounting, accounting supervisor, or similar leadership role.
• Manufacturing, distribution, or industrial industry experience preferred.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and financial reporting requirements.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Experience with ERP systems 
• Experience with Power BI, financial reporting tools, or business intelligence platforms is a plus.

Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Leadership mindset with strong business partnership capabilities.