Harmonic Finance Inc ™ | Certified B Corp

Compensation

Full Description

VP Controller | Rapid Growth AI Hardware Start-Up (Post $1 Billion+ Series A) | Hybrid The Client Harmonic are proud to have been retained by a rapidly growing VC Backed AI Hardware start-up. Harnessing the power of AI the business is solving major challenges in heavy manufacturing. This has applications impacting space exploration, climate and green energy, advanced computing, robotics, defense and global food supply chain. In the coming months they are preparing to begin large scale, complex manufacturing. They are currently in stealth mode and incubated by a major VC player with a track record in the last 3 years of launching some of the fastest growing and transformative AI businesses in their respective fields. They are going to announce one of the largest Series A fundraises in start-up history ($1 billion+) with multiple top tier VC backers that are working together on similar ventures. Our client has a genuinely values led culture with an incredibly bright leadership team. Founded by award winning scientists and AI industry leaders they are now building out their leadership team. This is much more than an opportunity to join an AI business but a chance to be at the forefront of multiple technological leaps which can change the shape of human history! The Role: The VP Controller will own the build out of entire Controllership function covering Accounting, Controls, Tax, Treasury, Cost Accounting and Government Accounting. Establishing a world class Controllership function implementing international processes to an IPO read level the VP Controller will be key to shaping the business during a rapid growth phase. Additionally, the position reports directly to a visionary CEO with an incredible reputation in the Bay Area. You will have significant impact shaping and defining the strategic direction of the business working closely with the wider Executive team and a ‘star studded’ Board. This position really is a true blank slate as the business is set to scale from under 25 to close 250 heads in 12 months and accelerating quickly to 1000 with room to grow into Chief Accounting Officer. Responsibilities: • Establish the global accounting function from the ground up, designing scalable processes and controls suitable for a high-growth, multi-entity manufacturing business. • Develop and implement a robust cost accounting framework to support complex manufacturing operations, product costing, and margin analysis. • Lead the setup and integration of international entities, managing cross-border accounting, statutory reporting, and consolidation under US GAAP. • Partner with external advisors for country-specific tax, regulatory, and accounting guidance; ensure global compliance and efficient tax structuring. • Build and manage the full month-end close process to IPO-ready standards, including internal controls, financial reporting, and audit preparation. • Provide technical accounting oversight and implement new guidance as the company evolves through R&D, production, and commercialization stages. • Oversee government accounting compliance, including adherence to federal contracting standards and audit requirements. • Lead the selection and implementation of a global ERP system, ensuring seamless integration across functions and geographies. • Recruit, mentor, and scale a high-performing accounting and finance team capable of supporting a complex international manufacturing footprint. What We Need: • Experience establishing or running a complex international accounting function in a Tech business (this can include AI, Deeptech, Manufacturing, Robotics, Defense, Biotech, Climate Tech and Green Energy, SaaS, Fintech) • Deep understanding of cost accounting • Significant international Controllership experience • Excellent communication skills • High level of commercial acumen What We’d Love to See (Non-Essential): • Experience dealing with government contracts • Experience in R&D heavy environments that have transitioned to large scale manufacturing • Experience in a high growth VC or PE backed environment • Built and established large international Accounting teams • Established new ERP processes or led significant Finance transformation Salary: $300,000 to $425,000 + bonus + share options Start Date: ASAP Location: Remote with some travel to San Francisco Bay Area