Senior Manager, Accounting

Compensation:
$140,000 - $160,000 / year
Department:
Finance
Location:
Oakville, Ontario HQ
DescriptionReporting 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 doFinancial 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?At Vital Bio, you will:
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
Compensation will be determined based on the individual’s demonstrated experience, education, training, relevant certifications or licensure, and other applicable business and organizational factors.
This role is a current, onsite vacancy.
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