Symeres is a leading mid-sized transatlantic contract research organization specializing in drug discovery and development. With over 500 highly skilled professionals across six European locations and two in the USA, they provide comprehensive solutions for developing small to medium-sized molecules, from initial discovery to clinical API delivery. They combine expertise with a personal touch.

This is a broad role in a specialized, highly data-driven environment where you will report directly to the CFO and work closely with the Project Managers. As a Project Controller, you will play a crucial role in driving and ensuring the financial success of our delivery organization and its commercial projects. You will collaborate with project managers, finance team and other senior stakeholders to provide accurate financial insights, control budgets, and optimize project performance

At the headquarters in Nijmegen, we are looking for an experienced and enthusiastic Project Controller. In this new and exciting role, you will play a key part in enhancing project control within the organization, supporting their ambitious financial goals. 

As a Project Controller, you will act as a financial sparring partner for project managers. You will analyze and monitor project budgets, costs, margins, revenues and forecasts, providing clear insights, analyses and reports. You will optimize project control processes from start to finish, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting and conduct variance analyses and provide pro-active project insights to project managers and leadership. You will support financial planning, risk assessment including mitigating strategies, and cost-benefit analyses for ongoing projects.  Additionally, you will support pricing calculations for new projects and oversee financial performance throughout the project lifecycle. 

Collaborating with the Group Financial Controller and the Group Business Controller and project teams, you will work to achieve financial goals for ongoing projects. You will also manage subsidy processes, such as WBSO, and ensure the proper administration of these programs.

We are looking for an enthusiastic, analytical, and results-driven Project Controller who is ready to elevate project control to the next level in their ambitious and fast-growing organization. With a solid finance background and a passion for project management, you thrive in a dynamic environment and are committed to supporting strategic financial goals. 

"Symeres provides a vibrant and ambitious work environment where innovation and growth are central. We are looking for a proactive, analytical, and results-driven Project Controller who is ready to elevate project management and financial control to the next level. With a solid financial background and a passion for managing complex projects, you thrive in a dynamic setting and are eager to contribute to achieving strategic objectives. Join Symeres during this exciting phase of growth, make a meaningful impact on our operations, and grow together with our forward-thinking organization."

• HBO-level finance education or bachelor
• 4 to 6 years of relevant experience in project control
• Proven experience in a project organization (pharmaceutical sector experience is a plus) 
• Strong analytical and communication skills (both collaborative and report writing) 
• Proficiency in financial modelling, ERP systems (like Exact Globe) and advanced Excel 
• Team player with a curious, open, and flexible attitude 
• Attention to detail, and ability to communicate complex financial data clearly to non-finance people
• Fluent in English, both written and verbal 
• A proactive mindset with a ‘can-do’ attitude and a focus on results

Symeres is a leading European Contract Research Organization (CRO) that provides integrated services for drug discovery and development. The company was formed through the merger of Mercachem and Syncom in 2017, building a strong reputation within the pharmaceutical, biotech, and chemical industries. With more than 500 highly skilled scientists across locations in the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Finland, and the United States, Symeres supports clients in discovering and developing small to medium-sized molecules, ranging from early-stage research to clinical drug development.

Symeres offers a wide range of services, including synthetic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, process research and development, custom synthesis, and support for early formulation and solid-state chemistry. These services help clients accelerate the development of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and other high-value compounds, maintaining the highest standards of quality and regulatory compliance. Symeres is committed to providing tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring faster time-to-market for drug products.

The company is deeply committed to sustainability, integrating environmental responsibility into its operations. Symeres actively invests in innovative technologies to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact in its processes.

Symeres continues to expand its capabilities through organic growth as well as strategic acquisitions. The 2017 investment by Gilde Healthcare played a significant role in accelerating the company’s growth and expanding its service portfolio. In 2021 Keensight Capital acquired the majority stake from Gilde Healthcare. Keensight supports the management team in pursuing and accelerating the organic and external growth of the company, while continuing to provide clients with the industry-leading service Symeres is known for. With a clear focus on agility, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Symeres is well-positioned to address the evolving challenges in life sciences and chemical industries.

Symeres fosters a collaborative and dynamic work environment, where employees can take ownership of their work and contribute to the company’s success. As the company scales, it is committed to supporting the development of its employees while driving innovation in drug discovery and development.

About Keensight Capital

Keensight Capital, one of the leading European Growth Buyout firms, is committed to supporting entrepreneurs as they implement their growth strategies. For 20 years, Keensight Capital’s team of seasoned professionals has leveraged their knowledge of investment and growth industries to invest for the long term in profitable companies with high growth potential and revenues in the range of €10 million to €300 million. Drawing on its expertise in the Technology and Healthcare sectors, Keensight identifies the best investment opportunities in Europe and works closely with management teams to develop and achieve their strategic vision.