At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial reporting and build accounting systems from scratch in a dynamic startup environment.
- Company: Join Vital Bio, a high-growth startup in the manufacturing sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, equity options, and comprehensive health benefits.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a collaborative and entrepreneurial culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping the finance function and collaborating with executive leadership.
- Qualifications: CPA designation and 8+ years of progressive accounting experience required.
The predicted salary is between 140000 - 160000 $ per year.
Reporting to the Vice President Finance, the Senior Manager, Accounting will serve as the company’s senior financial reporting leader, responsible for managing all accounting functions as we transition from pre‑revenue to active manufacturing operations. This is a “hands‑on” role and the successful candidate will build systems from the ground up, implement manufacturing‑specific cost accounting frameworks, ensure financial reporting compliance, and deliver timely, accurate financial information to support informed, timely executive decision‑making.
What you’ll do
- Financial Reporting & Controls
- Establish and own the full‑cycle accounting function, including general ledger, accounts receivable, inventories and fixed assets
- Prepare accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with ASPE and/or USGAAP as applicable
- Design and implement a robust internal controls framework appropriate for a startup manufacturing environment
- Act as the primary liaison with tax advisors and financial institutions
- Develop and maintain accounting policies and procedures and associated documentation
- Cost Accounting & Manufacturing Finance
- Build the company’s cost accounting system from inception, including standard costing, variance analysis, and bill‑of‑materials accounting
- Establish inventory accounting policies covering raw materials, work‑in‑progress (WIP), and finished goods
- Monitor and report on cost of goods sold (COGS), manufacturing overhead absorption, and production variances
- Partner with operations and supply chain teams to develop meaningful unit economics and production cost models
- Oversee capital expenditure tracking, asset capitalization policies, and depreciation schedules for manufacturing equipment
- Budgeting, Planning & Analysis
- Lead the development of the annual operating budget and multi‑year financial plan, including production cost modelling
- Prepare rolling cash flow forecasts and manage working capital requirements in coordination with the VP of Finance
- Provide detailed financial analysis and variance commentary to support executive and board reporting
- Compliance, Tax & Treasury
- Ensure full compliance with federal and provincial tax obligations (corporate tax, HST/GST, payroll source deductions, etc.)
- Manage government incentive programs including SR&ED tax credits, COGS rebates, and applicable manufacturing grants
- Oversee banking relationships, manage daily cash positioning, and administer credit facilities
- Systems & Team Leadership
- Optimize a new ERP system for cost accounting, integrated with manufacturing and inventory modules
- Recruit, onboard, and develop the accounting team as the organization scales
- Foster a culture of accuracy, accountability, continuous improvement, and cross‑functional collaboration
- Act as a trusted business partner to the operations leadership team
What you need
- CPA designation (CA, CMA, or CGA legacy) in good standing
- Minimum 8 years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 3 years in a senior or leadership role
- Demonstrated experience in a manufacturing, industrial, or product‑based company with hands‑on cost accounting exposure
- Strong knowledge of ASPE and/or IFRS financial reporting standards
- Proven experience building or significantly improving accounting processes and internal controls
- Proficiency with ERP systems and advanced Excel / financial modelling skills
- Strong analytical mindset with exceptional attention to detail and ability to translate data into actionable insights
- Experience managing or mentoring junior accounting staff
Bonus points for
- Experience in a startup or high‑growth company environment, ideally from pre‑revenue through initial operations
- Background in discrete and/or process manufacturing (e.g., diagnostics equipment, pharmaceuticals, high‑end chemicals)
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing financial principles and operational KPI frameworks
- Experience with SR&ED claims and Canadian manufacturing‑related government incentives
- MBA or other relevant graduate qualification is an asset
Why Join Us?
- Have competitive base salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
- Performance‑based bonus tied to company and individual objectives
- Equity / stock option participation in a high‑growth startup
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits
- A high‑impact, high‑visibility leadership role with direct access to the executive team
- The opportunity to build the finance function of a company from the ground up
- Collaborative, entrepreneurial culture that values initiative and continuous learning
Senior Manager, Accounting in Oakville employer: Vital Bio
Vital Bio is an exceptional employer located in Oakville, Canada, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation thrives. As a Senior Mechanical Engineer, you will be part of a collaborative team dedicated to advancing robotic diagnostics systems, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development. The company fosters a culture of creativity and support, ensuring that employees are empowered to make meaningful contributions to the future of life-science instrumentation.