Controller
The University of Mary ls seeking an experienced professional to serve in Financial Affairs. The Controller is a senior financial leader responsible for overseeing the university’s accounting operations, financial reporting, compliance, and internal controls. This role ensures the integrity of financial systems and supports strategic decision-making through accurate and timely financial data. The Controller plays a critical role in maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency across the institution.
Benefits Include: Retirement benefits with an 8% match
Medical, Dental, Vision and supplemental insurance
Free or discounted tuition for employees and dependents
Discounted meal plan
Discounted membership at the campus Wellness Center
Essential Roles/Responsibilities:
Financial Reporting & Compliance Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including IRS, DOE, and other regulatory bodies.
Coordinate annual audits and manage relationships with external auditors.
Accounting Operations Oversee general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, and fixed asset accounting.
Maintain and improve internal control systems to safeguard university assets.
Supervise and mentor accounting staff, fostering a culture of accuracy and accountability
Policy & Procedure Development Develop and enforce financial policies and procedures that align with best practices and institutional goals.
Ensure proper documentation and training for financial systems and processes.
Technology & Systems Manage financial systems and software, ensuring data integrity and system efficiency.
Lead or support ERP implementations and upgrades as needed.
Budgeting & Forecasting Collaborate with the VP of Financial Affairs and department heads to develop and monitor the annual budget.
Provide financial analysis and forecasting to support strategic initiatives and long-term planning.
Education Requirements Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, and a Master’s or CPA required.
Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in higher education or nonprofit sector.
Qualifications Represents the Office of Financial Affairs with integrity and a high level of professionalism
Strong knowledge of GAAP, fund accounting, and federal compliance requirements.
Proficiency in financial systems (e.g., Ellucian, Workday, Banner) and Microsoft Excel.
Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
Maintains absolute confidentiality and discretion in all matters related to the Office of Financial Affairs and associated areas of responsibility
Experience with grant accounting and restricted funds.
Familiarity with endowment management and donor reporting.
Ability to thrive in a mission-driven, collaborative environment.
knowledge and skills High degree of tact, discretion, and diplomacy in dealing with sensitive situations and individuals
Ability to work independently and with a team of colleagues
Ability to set priorities and exercise sound judgment in a fast-paced environment
Ability to understand, interpret, explain, and apply rules and policies applicable to areas of responsibility
Strong organizational and verbal and written communication skills
Ability to prepare clear, accurate, and concise correspondence, records, reports, and other documents
Expertise with Microsoft Office software applications, especially Excel
Preferably proficiency with the Jenzabar database
UNIVERSITY PROFILE
Student Population: Fall 2024 enrollment of 3,801, including 2,288 traditional undergraduate students and 1,513 graduate and nontraditional students. The student/faculty ratio is 10:1, with a 17% minority population representing all 50 states and 19 countries.
Academics: The University of Mary boasts 294 faculty members, offering 60+ bachelor's degree programs, 21 master’s degree programs, 5 doctoral degree programs, and 16 pre-professional…