Controller
The Controller will oversee all accounting operations, including financial reporting, and compliance. This role requires a thorough understanding of accounting principles and higher education financial management. The Controller will be responsible for maintaining the financial integrity of the institution, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting, and supporting strategic financial planning.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Financial Reporting and Analysis:
- Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
- Ensure compliance with GAAP and other regulatory requirements.
- Conduct variance analysis and provide insights on financial performance.
- Oversee the preparation of financial reports for internal and external stakeholders.
Accounting Operations:
- Oversee the general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and fixed assets.
- Ensure accurate and timely processing of all financial transactions.
- Implement and maintain internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure financial accuracy.
Compliance and Audit:
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
- Coordinate annual audits and serve as the primary liaison with external auditors.
- Prepare and file all required tax returns and regulatory reports.
Financial Systems and Processes:
- Manage and improve financial systems and software.
- Develop and implement policies and procedures to enhance operational efficiency.
- Provide training and support to finance staff and other departments on financial policies and systems.
Leadership and Team Management:
- Supervise and mentor the accounting team.
- Foster a collaborative and supportive work environment.
- Promote professional development and continuous improvement within the team.
Knowledge:
Accounting Principles:
- Deep understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and other relevant accounting standards.
- Knowledge of financial statement preparation and analysis.
Financial Regulations:
- Familiarity with federal, state, and local financial regulations and reporting requirements.
- Understanding of compliance requirements for higher education institutions or non-profit organizations.
Audit Processes:
- Understanding of internal and external audit processes and requirements.
- Experience in preparing for and coordinating audits.
Financial Systems:
- Knowledge of financial software systems and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
- Understanding of data management and financial reporting tools.
Skills:
Analytical Skills:
- Strong ability to analyze financial data, identify trends, and provide insights.
- Skill in conducting variance analysis and identifying financial risks and opportunities.
Attention to Detail:
- High level of accuracy in financial reporting and transaction processing.
- Ability to maintain detailed records and documentation.
Communication Skills:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to present complex financial information clearly and concisely to non-financial stakeholders.
Problem-Solving Skills:
- Proficiency in identifying financial issues and developing effective solutions.
- Skill in strategic thinking and planning.
Leadership Skills:
- Ability to lead, mentor, and develop a finance team.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to foster a collaborative work environment.
Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in financial software, accounting systems, and Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel).
- Ability to leverage technology to improve financial processes and reporting.
Abilities:
- Analytical Thinking:
- Ability to synthesize complex financial data and provide actionable insights.
- Capacity to think critically and make sound financial decisions.
Organizational Skills:
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
Ethical Judgment:
- High level of integrity and commitment to ethical standards.
- Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
Collaboration:
- Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and senior management.
- Skill in building and maintaining positive working relationships across the organization.
Adaptability:
- Ability to adapt to changing financial regulations, technologies, and organizational needs.
- Flexibility in managing diverse and complex financial projects.
Detail Orientation:
- Precision in financial reporting, and compliance activities.
- Meticulous approach to maintaining financial accuracy and integrity.
Education:
- Bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA.
Qualifications:
- Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role.
- Experience in higher education or non-profit sector strongly preferred.
- In-depth knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, and compliance.
- Proficiency in financial software and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- High level of integrity and commitment to ethical standards.
Equipment Used
Computers, fax, photocopier, scanner, projector, scanner, and teleconferencing equipment.
Physical and Mental Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Must be able to drive and have regular access to an automobile. Must have a current valid driver's license and insurance.
Physical - standing, walking, sitting, handling papers and folders, ordinary talking, hearing and vision, lifting to 25 pounds.
Mental - alertness, precision, ingenuity, problem solving, analytical, memory, concentration, judgment, writing ability, reasoning, initiative, patience.
