VP Controller | Rapid Clean Energy Start-Up Series | LA

VP Controller | Rapid Growth Clean Energy Start-Up ($130m Series A) | LA

Harmonic Finance Inc is the recruiting firm for a rapidly scaling VC-backed clean energy company. The client has completed a $150M Series A and is transitioning from R&D into power generation in 2026. The company focuses on next-generation nuclear technology, aiming to deliver reliable, carbon-free power at scale, and has deep expertise in nuclear engineering and high-growth scaling.

The business is entering a critical growth phase. The VP Controller will own the build-out of the entire controllership function covering Accounting, Controls, Tax, Treasury, Cost Accounting and Government Accounting. The incumbent will establish a world-class controllership, design global processes to IPO-ready standards, and shape the business during rapid expansion.

• Establish the global accounting function from the ground up, designing scalable processes and controls suitable for high-growth, multi-entity manufacturing.
• 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.

• Experience establishing or running a complex international accounting function in a tech business (AI, deeptech, manufacturing, robotics, defense, biotech, climate tech, SaaS, fintech).
• Deep understanding of manufacturing and cost accounting.
• Significant international controllership experience.
• High level of commercial acumen.

• Experience dealing with government contracts.
• Experience in R&D-heavy environments transitioning to large-scale manufacturing.
• Experience in high-growth VC or PE backed environment.
• Built and established large international accounting teams.
• Established new ERP processes or led significant finance transformation.

Salary
: $250,000-$350,000 plus share options.

Start Date
: ASAP.

Location
: LA (ideally in office but option for hybrid).

Seniority
:
Director

Employment type
:
Full-time

Job function
:
Accounting/Auditing and Finance

Industries
:
Energy Technology, Defense and Space Manufacturing, Electric Power Generation