Controller / Finance & Operations Lead

$125k - $165k

Los Angeles, California, United States

Full-time

11-50

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🔴 Closes on:

Sep 6, 2026

Job Description:

RDI Trials, a growing clinical research organization (CRO), is seeking a highly capable Controller / Finance & Operations Lead to help manage and build the operational backbone of the company.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment and is comfortable wearing multiple hats across finance, HR, and operational infrastructure. The right person will serve as a trusted partner to leadership and help ensure the business runs smoothly as the company continues to grow.

This is not a narrow accounting role. We are looking for someone who can think broadly about how a business operates and is willing to step in wherever needed to support the organization. If you love figuring things out, improving how things work, and making a company run better, this role puts you right at the center of the action.

Key Responsibilities

Finance & Accounting

Oversee day-to-day financial operations including accounts payable, receivable, and general ledger management
Manage monthly close, financial reporting, and financial statement preparation
Support budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes
Monitor cash flow and support financial decision making with leadership
Work with external accountants on tax filings, audits, and compliance
Ensure strong financial controls and accurate reporting

HR & People Operations

Support employee onboarding, benefits administration, and payroll coordination
Help maintain HR policies, documentation, and employee records
Assist leadership with hiring coordination and workforce planning
Serve as a point of contact for HR and administrative matters

Operational & Administrative Support

Help implement and maintain internal systems and operational processes
Support vendor management, contracts, and operational expenses
Assist leadership with operational reporting and business analysis
Help organize and improve internal workflows across teams
Step in on special projects and operational priorities as needed

Requirements

Who You Are

You enjoy building structure in a growing company and can seamlessly move between finance, HR, and operational responsibilities. You're eager to play an important role in helping leadership maintain financial discipline while also supporting the day-to-day operational needs of the organization.

Specific Requirements

7+ years of experience in accounting/finance, with senior leadership experience
Strong working knowledge of GAAP-based accounting and financial reporting
You treat finance like the scientific method of business building, rigorous, structured and evidenced
You understand the operational complexity of project-based businesses (CRO, clinical research, consulting, agency etc)
You don't outsource accountability, you own outcomes fully
You thrive in ambiguity and build structure where none exists
You can move between strategic and tactical fluidly, building models one hour and negotiating banking terms the next
Excited to join a growing company where responsibilities may span multiple functions
Background in life sciences, healthcare, or clinical research is a plus, but not required