Job Overview

Devonshire Recruiting & Consulting Partners is seeking a Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer (CAO). Reporting to the CFO, the CAO will lead global accounting operations, ensure financial reporting integrity, and drive operational excellence as a key member of the finance leadership team. This high-visibility role is perfect for a strategic, collaborative leader with deep expertise in U.S. GAAP, SEC reporting, and SOX compliance, and a passion for building scalable, high-performing teams in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee global accounting functions, including general ledger, technical accounting, SEC reporting, SOX compliance, and accounts payable.
• Deliver accurate, timely, and compliant financial reports (10-Ks, 10-Qs, earnings releases) in line with U.S. GAAP and SEC regulations.
• Design and implement efficient processes, standard operating procedures, and internal controls to enhance accuracy and scalability.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for external auditors, regulators, and stakeholders on financial reporting and accounting policies.
• Provide strategic guidance on complex accounting issues, including revenue recognition, R&D, M&A, and equity instruments.
• Lead process optimization and automation initiatives using lean methodologies to support operational excellence.
• Mentor and develop a high-performing accounting team, fostering collaboration, professional growth, and accountability.
• Partner with FP&A, Legal, Tax, Treasury, and business units to align financial reporting with organizational goals.
• Monitor and assess emerging accounting standards and regulatory changes to ensure compliance and strategic alignment.

Team Leadership

• Empower the accounting team by clarifying roles, enhancing skills, and implementing training programs to achieve individual and organizational excellence.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive team culture that promotes integrity, innovation, and professional development.
• Drive automation and process improvements to streamline workflows and accelerate delivery timelines.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA required.
• 15+ years of progressive accounting experience, including 5+ years in a senior leadership role at a publicly traded company.
• Deep expertise in U.S. GAAP, SEC reporting, and SOX compliance; experience in the life sciences, biotech, or pharmaceutical industries is a strong plus.
• Proven success leading teams through complex transactions, such as mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and integrations, is preferred.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to engage with executive leadership, Audit Committees, and external stakeholders.
• Strategic, hands-on mindset with a track record of driving process improvements and scalable team structures.
• Strong interpersonal skills, adept at translating complex financial concepts for finance and non-finance audiences.
• Commitment to integrity, credibility, and fostering an inclusive, high-performance team environment.