Assistant Director, Finance - Global Product Strategy & Operations (GPSO)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Assistant Director, Finance - Global Product Strategy & Operations (GPSO)

Company: Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Location: Carlsbad, CA

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Finance & Accounting / Operations

Date Posted: 2026-10-20T12:59:44.59

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role serves as a critical finance business partner, deeply integrated within the Global Product Strategy & Operations (GPSO) organization, specifically supporting Medical Affairs, Insights & Analytics (I&A), and New Product Planning functions.

• The position requires leading comprehensive financial planning and analysis (FP&A) activities, including annual budgeting, quarterly forecasting, long-range planning, and detailed management reporting.

• A key responsibility involves providing strategic financial insights and decision support to functional leadership, guiding resource allocation, identifying financial risks and opportunities, and fostering financial accountability across supported departments.

• The Assistant Director will be instrumental in translating complex financial and operational data into clear, actionable recommendations for senior leadership, requiring exceptional presentation and stakeholder management skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: While titled "Assistant Director, Finance," the responsibilities clearly position this role as a senior-level Finance Business Partner with a strong operational focus. The emphasis on supporting product strategy and operations functions, coupled with the requirement for deep business partnership and strategic financial guidance, indicates a role that goes beyond traditional accounting or pure FP&A. The inclusion of "Operations" in the department name (GPSO) and the focus on "resource allocation" and "operational initiatives" further underscore its operational integration.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Strategic Business Partnership: Act as the primary finance liaison for Medical Affairs, Insights & Analytics (I&A), and New Product Planning leadership, offering expert financial guidance, actionable business insights, and robust decision support for strategic initiatives and operational plans.

• Financial Planning & Analysis Leadership: Spearhead the annual budget process, quarterly forecasting cycles, long-range financial planning, and monthly financial review cadences for the assigned functional areas, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives and strategic priorities.

• Performance Management & Reporting: Develop, analyze, and communicate financial performance updates, clearly articulating underlying business drivers, identified risks, emerging opportunities, and strategic recommendations to both functional and senior leadership teams.

• Executive Communication & Presentation: Prepare and deliver compelling, executive-ready financial analyses, comprehensive presentations, and persuasive recommendations that directly inform and influence critical decision-making by functional and senior leadership.

• Investment & Resource Optimization: Collaborate closely with business leaders to rigorously evaluate spending trends, assess the financial viability of investment opportunities, and forecast resource requirements, ensuring optimal alignment with organizational priorities and maximizing return on investment.

• Risk & Opportunity Identification: Proactively identify potential financial risks and opportunities within the supported functions, developing and presenting clear, actionable recommendations to mitigate challenges and capitalize on favorable trends, thereby supporting the achievement of key business objectives.

• Financial Modeling & Tool Enhancement: Develop, maintain, and continuously enhance sophisticated financial models, forecasting tools, and management reporting dashboards to significantly improve financial visibility, accuracy, and decision-making support across the supported organizations.

• Process Improvement & Scalability: Drive continuous improvement initiatives within financial planning, forecasting, and reporting processes, focusing on enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and scalability to meet the evolving needs of the supported functions and the broader organization.

• Accounting Close Collaboration: Partner effectively with the Accounting department to support seamless month-end and quarter-end close activities, including precise accrual preparation, in-depth variance analysis, accurate financial reporting, and ensuring strict adherence to company policies and compliance standards.

• Ad Hoc Analysis & Project Support: Provide critical support for special projects, conduct ad hoc financial analyses as required, and contribute to evolving business needs, demonstrating flexibility and a proactive approach to supporting diverse organizational demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a proactive and strategic finance business partnering role, extending beyond traditional FP&A. The focus on "operational initiatives," "resource allocation," and "identifying financial risks and opportunities" highlights the operational integration and the expectation for the candidate to influence business decisions. The requirement to "partner closely with Accounting to support monthly and quarterly close activities" indicates a need for a strong understanding of accounting principles and close processes.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, or a closely related quantitative discipline, coupled with a minimum of 8 years of progressive, relevant professional experience.

• Alternatively, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree, accompanied by at least 6 years of comparable professional experience. Experience:

• A minimum of 5+ years of direct experience in Finance, Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A), Corporate Accounting, or dedicated Finance Business Partner roles, demonstrating a clear trajectory of increased responsibility and successful business partnership with senior management.

• Proven track record of effectively partnering with senior business leaders, influencing strategic decisions through compelling financial insights, data-driven recommendations, and robust analytical capabilities.

• Substantial experience managing and executing comprehensive financial processes, including annual budgeting, quarterly forecasting, long-range strategic planning, and detailed management reporting.

• Demonstrated ability to conceptualize, develop, and deliver high-impact, executive-level presentations and communicate complex financial information clearly and concisely to diverse senior leadership audiences.

• Proven capacity for identifying critical business risks and opportunities, translating complex financial analyses into practical, actionable strategic recommendations that drive business outcomes.

• Strong experience influencing cross-functional stakeholders and adept at driving consensus and alignment within a dynamic, matrixed organizational structure.

• Hands-on experience supporting month-end and quarter-end financial close processes, working collaboratively with accounting teams to ensure accuracy and timeliness.

• Exceptional financial modeling, analytical problem-solving, and critical thinking skills, with a strong aptitude for quantitative analysis.

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., complex formulas, pivot tables, financial modeling) and Microsoft PowerPoint (e.g., presentation design, data visualization) is mandatory.

• Experience with SAP and OneStream financial software solutions is strongly preferred, indicating a need for familiarity with enterprise-level financial systems.

• A solid working knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and fundamental financial accounting principles is required.

• Demonstrated ability to operate independently, manage multiple competing priorities effectively, and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment with a high degree of autonomy.

• Prior experience within the life sciences, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical industry is highly preferred, suggesting a need for domain-specific knowledge. Required Skills:

• Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A): Expertise in budgeting, forecasting, long-range planning, and variance analysis.

• Financial Modeling & Analysis: Advanced ability to build complex financial models, perform scenario analysis, and derive actionable insights.

• Business Partnering: Proven capability to build strong relationships with business leaders, understand their needs, and provide strategic financial guidance.

• Executive Communication: Skill in developing and delivering clear, concise, and persuasive presentations to senior management.

• Advanced Excel & PowerPoint: Mastery of advanced functions, data visualization, and presentation creation tools.

Preferred Skills:

• SAP & OneStream: Familiarity with these enterprise financial planning and accounting systems.

• Life Sciences Industry: Understanding of pharmaceutical/biotech financial dynamics, R&D, and commercialization processes.

• GAAP Knowledge: Solid grasp of accounting principles for financial reporting and analysis.

• Cross-Functional Influence: Experience navigating and influencing within a matrixed organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of strong technical finance skills (modeling, FP&A, GAAP) with essential soft skills like business partnering, executive communication, and stakeholder management. The preference for SAP, OneStream, and life sciences experience suggests a desire for candidates who can quickly adapt to the company's existing systems and industry nuances. The required experience level (8+ years with BS, 6+ with MBA) indicates a senior role with significant autonomy and impact.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Financial Planning & Analysis Case Studies: Examples demonstrating leadership in annual budgeting, quarterly forecasting, and long-range financial planning processes, showcasing your methodology and impact on strategic decision-making.

• Financial Modeling Demonstrations: Showcase your ability to build robust, dynamic financial models for various scenarios (e.g., new product investment, operational efficiency improvements), highlighting the inputs, assumptions, outputs, and resulting recommendations.

• Executive Presentation Examples: Include samples of executive-level presentations that effectively communicate complex financial performance, identified risks/opportunities, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership.

• Business Partnering Documentation: Evidence of successful collaboration with business leaders, such as project proposals influenced by your financial insights or documented instances of guiding resource allocation decisions.

• Process Improvement Initiatives: Any documentation or case studies detailing how you identified and implemented improvements to financial planning, reporting, or close processes, emphasizing efficiency gains and accuracy enhancements.

Process Documentation:

• Financial Process Design & Optimization: Portfolios should include examples of how you have designed, documented, and optimized financial workflows, such as the budget cycle, forecasting process, or management reporting cadence, highlighting improvements in efficiency and accuracy.

• System Implementation & Integration: If applicable, showcase experience with financial systems (e.g., SAP, OneStream, EPM/CPM tools), detailing your role in implementation, configuration, data integration, or enhancement projects.

• Performance Measurement & ROI: Demonstrate your ability to define key performance indicators (KPIs) for financial processes, track performance, and analyze the return on investment (ROI) for business initiatives or operational changes you supported.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on finance business partnering and operational strategy, a portfolio should highlight strategic thinking and impact, not just data manipulation. Emphasis should be placed on case studies that demonstrate how financial analysis led to tangible business outcomes, improved resource allocation, or mitigated risks. Examples of presentations to senior leadership and documentation of process improvements will be particularly valuable.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $112,267 - $156,122 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Highly Competitive Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans designed to support employee and family well-being.

• Retirement Savings Plan: A robust 401(k) plan with company matching contributions to support long-term financial security.

• Paid Time Off & Holidays: Generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays, to promote work-life balance.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Employer-provided life insurance and short-term/long-term disability coverage for added financial protection.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued learning, including support for certifications, workshops, and relevant industry conferences to foster career growth.

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP): Potential to purchase company stock at a discounted rate, offering an opportunity to share in the company's success.

• Wellness Programs: Initiatives focused on employee health and well-being, potentially including fitness stipends or wellness challenges.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work hours are expected, typically around 40 hours per week. However, given the nature of finance business partnering and critical close periods, flexibility may be required during peak times such as budget cycles, forecasting periods, and month/quarter-end close.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific and competitive for a senior finance role in the pharmaceutical industry in California. The benefits are described as "highly competitive," suggesting a comprehensive package typical for established biotech firms. The "working hours" note acknowledges the need for flexibility inherent in finance roles, especially those supporting operational functions and close processes.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Biotechnology / Pharmaceuticals. Ionis is a pioneer in RNA-targeted medicines, focusing on discovering and developing transformative therapies for patients with serious diseases. The company has a strong foundation in drug discovery, a leading pipeline, and multiple marketed medicines, positioning it for continued innovation and growth.

Company Size: Ionis Pharmaceuticals is a significant player in the biotech industry, employing a substantial workforce. This size typically means established processes, cross-functional teams, and opportunities for specialization, while still retaining a sense of collaborative innovation often found in mid-to-large sized biotech firms.

Founded: Ionis was founded over three decades ago, indicating a history of sustained innovation and a deep understanding of RNA-targeted therapeutics. This longevity suggests financial stability, a mature organizational structure, and a wealth of institutional knowledge.

Team Structure:

• Global Product Strategy & Operations (GPSO): This is the core team the Assistant Director will support. It's structured to drive product success across the lifecycle, encompassing Medical Affairs, Insights & Analytics, and New Product Planning. The finance role within GPSO acts as a central hub for financial guidance to these diverse functions.

• Reporting Structure: The Assistant Director will likely report into a Director or Senior Director of Finance within the broader finance organization, while maintaining a strong dotted-line reporting relationship to the leaders of Medical Affairs, I&A, and New Product Planning.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: The role inherently requires extensive collaboration with various departments, including R&D, Commercial, Legal, Accounting, and other Finance teams, to ensure alignment on financial strategy and execution.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Ionis emphasizes using data and scientific rigor to drive decisions, a principle that extends to its financial operations. Expect a focus on analytical insights and evidence-based recommendations.

• Strategic Planning & Execution: The company's focus on both discovery and commercialization requires a methodical approach to strategic planning, financial forecasting, and resource allocation to support long-term goals.

• Continuous Improvement: As a company at the forefront of scientific advancement, there's an implicit drive for continuous improvement in processes, including financial operations, to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

Company Website: http://www.ionis.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context highlights Ionis's leadership position in RNA therapeutics and its commitment to innovation. For a finance professional, understanding the company's industry (biotech/pharma), its stage of development (multiple marketed products and a strong pipeline), and its operational structure (GPSO supporting key product functions) is crucial for strategic financial partnering. The emphasis on "scientific excellence" and "innovation" suggests a culture that values data-driven insights and forward-thinking financial strategies.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Assistant Director" role represents a significant step in a finance professional's career, moving beyond individual contributor or senior analyst roles. It signifies a transition into a leadership position with direct business partnering responsibilities, requiring strategic influence and management of financial processes for key operational and strategic functions. It's a role that demands both technical financial acumen and strong business acumen, preparing individuals for Director-level and above positions.

Reporting Structure: The Assistant Director will report to a senior finance leader (e.g., Director or VP of Finance) who oversees FP&A or a specific business unit's financial operations. Concurrently, they will have a strong "dotted-line" relationship with the executive leaders of Medical Affairs, Insights & Analytics, and New Product Planning, acting as their trusted financial advisor. This dual reporting structure is typical for finance business partners, balancing corporate finance oversight with functional business unit support.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and substantial impact on the operational and strategic success of Ionis. By providing critical financial insights, guiding resource allocation for R&D support functions, and identifying risks/opportunities, the Assistant Director influences investment decisions that shape the company's pipeline, market strategies, and overall financial health. Their work directly supports the development and commercialization of life-changing medicines.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Director/Senior Director: A successful tenure in this role can lead to promotion to Director or Senior Director of Finance, potentially overseeing larger P&Ls, broader functional areas, or managing a team of finance professionals.

• Specialization in Pharma Finance: Deepening expertise within the pharmaceutical and biotech sector, becoming a sought-after specialist in areas like R&D finance, commercial finance, or therapeutic area finance.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Opportunities to move into broader operational or strategic leadership roles within the company, leveraging the comprehensive business understanding gained through finance partnering.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in financial modeling, strategic planning, executive communication, and industry-specific financial nuances, supported by company-provided training and exposure to complex business challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career progression for an Assistant Director in this context is typically towards more senior finance leadership roles, either within FP&A or potentially expanding into corporate finance, strategic planning, or even operational leadership. The deep exposure to product strategy, R&D support, and market insights provides a strong foundation for understanding the entire product lifecycle, which is highly valuable for future growth.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Ionis offers a hybrid work environment. This typically means a combination of working from the company's office (Carlsbad, CA) and remotely. This model aims to balance the benefits of in-person collaboration and focus with the flexibility of remote work.

Office Location(s): The primary work location for this role is onsite/hybrid in Carlsbad, California. Ionis also has offices in Boston, Massachusetts, and Dublin, Ireland, indicating a global presence and potential for collaboration across different regions.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: As a hybrid role supporting diverse functions like Medical Affairs and Product Planning, expect a collaborative workspace that encourages interaction. This includes team meetings, cross-functional project discussions, and shared office spaces designed for both focused work and team synergy.

• Technology & Tools: Access to Ionis's standard technology stack, including robust financial planning software (SAP, OneStream), communication platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack), and standard office productivity suites. The finance team will likely utilize advanced analytical tools and potentially business intelligence platforms.

• Operations Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with finance team members, as well as key stakeholders within Medical Affairs, I&A, and New Product Planning. This involves regular meetings, data sharing, and joint problem-solving sessions.

Work Schedule: While the standard workweek is typically 40 hours, the hybrid nature and the demands of finance business partnering, especially during critical financial periods (budgeting, forecasting, close), will likely require flexibility. Employees are expected to manage their time effectively to meet deadlines and business needs, balancing scheduled remote and in-office days.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment in Carlsbad suggests a modern approach to work, balancing collaboration with flexibility. The emphasis on cross-functional interaction is key for a finance business partner. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic environment where proactive communication and adaptability are essential, especially when bridging the gap between finance and operational/strategic teams.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or HR representative will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss your career trajectory and interest in Ionis.

• Hiring Manager Interview: An interview with the hiring manager (likely a Director or Senior Director of Finance) to delve deeper into your technical finance skills, FP&A experience, business partnering capabilities, and understanding of the biotech/pharma industry.

• Case Study/Presentation: A common step for finance business partner roles. You may be asked to prepare a financial analysis, build a forecast model, or present a case study on a past project demonstrating your problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills. This is a prime opportunity to showcase your portfolio.

• Panel Interview: Interviews with key stakeholders from the functions you will support (e.g., leaders from Medical Affairs, I&A, or New Product Planning) and potentially other finance team members. This assesses your ability to collaborate, influence, and communicate effectively across different departments.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a VP or other senior finance executive for a final assessment of your fit, strategic thinking, and overall qualifications.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Impact: For each portfolio piece, clearly articulate the business problem, your approach, the financial tools/models used, and most importantly, the quantifiable results and business impact (e.g., cost savings achieved, revenue uplift supported, efficiency gains realized).

• Focus on Strategic Recommendations: Highlight instances where your financial analysis led to strategic recommendations that influenced decision-making, resource allocation, or risk mitigation.

• Showcase Presentation Skills: Include examples of executive-level presentations that are visually appealing, data-driven, and clearly convey complex information concisely.

• Demonstrate Process Improvement: If possible, include examples of how you improved financial processes, increased efficiency, or enhanced accuracy, using metrics to support your claims.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects and experiences most relevant to supporting R&D, product strategy, and operational finance within a biotech/pharma context.

Challenge Preparation:

• Financial Modeling Exercise: Be prepared for a live or take-home case study involving building a financial model, forecasting revenue/expenses, or analyzing an investment scenario. Practice with Excel and be ready to explain your assumptions and methodology.

• Business Scenario Analysis: Expect questions that require you to analyze a hypothetical business situation, identify financial implications, and propose solutions or recommendations. Think about how to frame financial risks and opportunities.

• Stakeholder Management Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would handle challenging conversations with business leaders, gain buy-in for financial recommendations, or manage conflicting priorities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will likely be multi-faceted, assessing not only technical finance skills but also strategic thinking, communication abilities, and business partnering acumen. A well-prepared portfolio that showcases quantifiable achievements and strategic impact will be critical for demonstrating suitability for a senior business partnering role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• ERP System (SAP): Likely used for core financial transactions, general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, and potentially some reporting functions. Familiarity with SAP modules relevant to finance is advantageous.

• Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) Software (OneStream): Strongly preferred. This indicates a need for expertise in dedicated EPM/CPM (Enterprise Performance Management/Corporate Performance Management) solutions for budgeting, forecasting, long-range planning, and sophisticated financial consolidation and reporting.

• Microsoft Excel: Advanced proficiency is mandatory. This includes complex formulas, pivot tables, data analysis tools, financial modeling capabilities, and potentially VBA for automation.

• Microsoft PowerPoint: Essential for creating executive-level presentations, visualizing financial data, and communicating insights effectively.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: While not explicitly mentioned, companies of this size often use BI tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) for dashboard creation and advanced data visualization. Experience here would be a plus.

• Internal Reporting Databases: Access to and ability to extract data from various internal financial and operational databases for analysis.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems (e.g., Salesforce): While not a primary finance tool, understanding how CRM data (e.g., sales forecasts, pipeline) feeds into financial planning can be beneficial, especially for commercial-adjacent functions.

• Automation Tools: Familiarity with any tools or scripting (e.g., Python, Alteryx) used for automating financial data extraction, transformation, or reporting processes would be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of SAP and the strong preference for OneStream are key indicators of the required technical skill set. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with these or similar EPM/ERP systems and how they leverage them for financial planning, analysis, and reporting. Advanced Excel skills are a baseline requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Scientific Excellence & Innovation: A core value at Ionis, driving a culture that values rigorous analysis, forward-thinking strategies, and the pursuit of groundbreaking therapies. For finance, this translates to a commitment to data accuracy, strategic financial planning that supports innovation, and a proactive approach to identifying opportunities.

• Patient Focus: The ultimate mission of Ionis is to improve patient lives. This value permeates decision-making, encouraging a sense of purpose and responsibility in all roles, including finance, ensuring that financial strategies support the company's patient-centric goals.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all operations, including financial reporting and business dealings. This means a commitment to transparency, accuracy, and taking ownership of financial processes and outcomes.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where diverse teams work together effectively to achieve common goals. Finance professionals are expected to partner closely with various departments, share knowledge, and contribute to a cohesive organizational effort.

• Agility & Adaptability: Operating in the dynamic biotech sector requires the ability to adapt to changing scientific landscapes, market conditions, and business priorities. Finance roles need to be flexible, responsive, and capable of navigating ambiguity.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Business Partnering: The finance team is expected to be an active partner, engaging with business leaders early and often, rather than a reactive support function. This involves understanding business needs, anticipating challenges, and offering solutions.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Collaboration is key across R&D, Commercial, Medical Affairs, and other support functions. Finance professionals need to build strong relationships, communicate effectively, and ensure financial strategies are aligned with and support the objectives of these diverse groups.

• Data-Driven Dialogue: Discussions are expected to be grounded in data and analysis, fostering constructive dialogue and evidence-based decision-making.

• Open Feedback Culture: An environment that encourages the exchange of feedback, both giving and receiving, to continuously improve processes, performance, and team dynamics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes a mission-driven, collaborative, and scientifically rigorous environment. For a finance professional, this means being not just a number cruncher but a strategic partner who understands the business, embraces innovation, and is committed to the company's patient-centric mission. The emphasis on "integrity" and "accountability" is paramount in a finance role.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Ambiguity in a R&D-Intensive Environment: The biotech industry, particularly with a strong R&D pipeline, inherently involves uncertainties in drug development timelines, clinical trial outcomes, and market entry. The Assistant Director will need to develop robust financial models and forecasts that account for these inherent risks and adapt quickly to changing R&D milestones.

• Balancing Strategic Investment with Financial Discipline: Ionis invests heavily in R&D and new product development. A key challenge will be partnering with leaders to support necessary investments while ensuring financial discipline, optimizing resource allocation, and meeting profitability targets.

• Cross-Functional Alignment in a Matrixed Organization: Influencing and gaining alignment from diverse functional leaders (Medical Affairs, I&A, New Product Planning) who may have different priorities and perspectives requires strong stakeholder management and communication skills.

• Evolving Regulatory & Market Landscape: The pharmaceutical industry is subject to constant regulatory changes and market dynamics. Staying abreast of these shifts and their financial implications will be crucial for accurate forecasting and strategic advice.

• Integrating New Technologies & Processes: As the company grows and evolves, there may be a need to adapt to new financial systems, reporting tools, or analytical methodologies, requiring continuous learning and process adaptation.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into Pharma/Biotech Finance: Gaining specialized knowledge in the financial intricacies of drug development, clinical trials, regulatory affairs, and commercialization within the life sciences sector.

• Advanced Financial Modeling & EPM: Enhancing skills in sophisticated financial modeling techniques and leveraging advanced features of EPM systems like OneStream for strategic planning and analysis.

• Executive Leadership & Strategic Influence: Developing stronger capabilities in executive communication, stakeholder management, and influencing strategic business decisions through finance leadership.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Opportunities to attend relevant finance and pharmaceutical industry conferences, and potentially pursue certifications (e.g., CFA, CMA) that enhance professional expertise.

• Mentorship & Networking: Engaging with senior finance leaders and cross-functional executives within Ionis, providing invaluable mentorship and networking opportunities for career advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the dynamic and complex nature of finance within a leading biotech firm. Success will require not only strong financial acumen but also adaptability, strategic thinking, and excellent interpersonal skills. The growth opportunities emphasize career development within specialized finance functions and potential transitions into broader leadership roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you partnered with a business leader to make a significant investment decision. What was your role, the financial analysis involved, and the outcome?" (Focus on your analytical rigor, ability to quantify ROI, and influence.)

• "How would you approach building a long-range financial plan for a new product launch, considering R&D, clinical trials, and market access complexities?" (Demonstrate understanding of pharma financial lifecycles, scenario planning, and risk assessment.)

• "Imagine a key R&D project is facing significant cost overruns. How would you analyze the situation, communicate the implications to stakeholders, and recommend a course of action?" (Showcase problem-solving, communication, and financial discipline.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Ionis's approach to RNA-targeted therapeutics, and how do you see finance supporting this innovation?" (Research Ionis's pipeline and strategic focus. Connect finance to enabling scientific advancement.)

• "How would you foster a collaborative relationship with leaders in Medical Affairs and New Product Planning, given their distinct operational goals?" (Emphasize understanding their objectives, proactive communication, and providing tailored financial insights.)

• "Describe a situation where you had to communicate difficult financial news or recommendations to senior leadership. How did you prepare and deliver the message?" (Highlight transparency, data-backed rationale, and constructive solutions.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each example, clearly outline the Business Challenge, Your Role/Actions, Financial Analysis/Tools Used, Key Findings/Recommendations, and Quantifiable Business Impact/Results.

• Focus on Strategic Impact: Emphasize how your financial insights influenced decisions, improved resource allocation, mitigated risks, or drove efficiencies. Use clear, concise language and compelling visuals.

• Tailor to GPSO: Select portfolio pieces that best demonstrate your experience supporting R&D, product strategy, operational finance, or cross-functional teams within a life sciences context.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about your methodologies, assumptions, and how you would apply similar approaches to challenges at Ionis.

• Practice Your Narrative: Rehearse your presentation to ensure a smooth, confident, and engaging delivery. Be prepared to answer questions on the fly.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic financial partnership, deep analytical capabilities, and strong communication skills tailored to the biotech/pharma industry. Candidates should be ready to articulate their experience with financial modeling, forecasting, business partnering, and presenting complex financial information to senior executives, using concrete examples from their portfolio.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Assistant Director, Finance - Global Product Strategy & Operations (GPSO) position:

• Submit your application through the Ionis Pharmaceuticals careers portal (http://www.ionis.com).

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in FP&A, financial business partnering, life sciences finance, and proficiency with tools like SAP and OneStream. Quantify achievements with specific metrics related to budgeting, forecasting, cost savings, or investment analysis.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a selection of your strongest work samples that demonstrate financial modeling, strategic analysis, executive presentations, and process improvements. Focus on impact and relevance to the GPSO functions.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Ionis Pharmaceuticals, its pipeline, therapeutic areas, and recent financial news. Understand their mission and values to articulate your alignment during interviews.

• Interview Practice: Prepare for common finance business partner interview questions, including behavioral, technical, and case study scenarios. Practice presenting your portfolio and articulating your strategic thinking process.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.