Controller

Established organization with reputable program.

An opportunity to impact an entire organization.

The Controller has overall responsibility for the accuracy, integrity, oversight and maintenance of the Universitys financial records; ensuring the timeliness of financial transactions; providing adequate internal controls and preparing financial reports in compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and in compliance with federal, state and local law and regulations related to the finances of not for profit institutions. The Controller provides effective leadership for the Accounting and Payroll Departments, including overseeing the operations of the Accounting and Payroll Departments and managing direct reports (accountants and the Payroll Director) who are responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of these areas.

The Controller reports to the Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration/Treasurer, works closely with the Assistant Treasurer, the Vice President of Financial Planning and Enterprise Applications, the Procurement and Payment Services Office, and the Office of Budget and Financial Planning. This role is a member of the Finance and Administration Division Leadership Team. The Controller provides support to the Board of Trustees Administration and Finance Committee and Audit, Compliance and Risk Management Committee. As required, the Controller will communicate accounting matters to the University community.

Principal Responsibilities:

Ensure an accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and year-end financial close in compliance with GAAP. Accountable for the accurate and timely preparation, analysis and communication of the internal financial reporting package for senior management. Manage the balance sheet reconciliation process ensuring integrity and accuracy of balances.

Assist Payroll Manager to prioritize projects and payroll issues. Ensure processing and tax compliance to ensure timely and accurate reporting. Review and approve outgoing funds.

Lead the external fiscal interim, year-end and Uniform Guidance audits, and prepare the financial statements, Form 990 and other tax forms. Serve as primary liaison and contact for the external audit firm.

Collaborate with other central administrative units and the schools to continuously improve financial functions, financial analysis, systems and data, controls, and accounting and reporting. Participate in internal and external meetings as required, including the Audit, Compliance, and Risk Management Committee and the Administration and Finance Committee of the Board of Trustees; serve on the Retirement Plan Committee; engage with the Controllers Community of Practice at The Boston Consortium for Higher Education.

Work with the Enterprise Applications team to improve financial reporting and evaluate system solutions to promote efficiencies and support data integrity.

Prepare and review financial information for surveys required for external reporting. Serve as a University resource and expert on matters of accounting, internal controls, financial reporting and tax compliance, providing advice, direction and training to members of the community.

Respond to community questions on accounting and processing financial transactions and provide training on reporting capabilities as needed.

Effectively lead the Accounting and Payroll teams. Recruit, train and mentor direct reports. Develop performance plans, monitor progress and complete annual performance appraisals; provide and promote appropriate professional development and learning experiences, support and provide direction. Monitor and analyze department work to develop more efficient procedures and use of resources while maintaining a high level of accuracy.

Lead the development and maintenance of internal control procedures/practices and process improvements. Document all policies, procedures and systems related to financial reporting, transaction processing, and financial controls; regularly review for improvement.

Identify areas of risk and assist with solutions to ensure compliance. Coordinate the work of the internal auditor at the University. This function is currently performed by The Boston Consortium Shared Internal Audit Services group.

Requirements:

Bachelors degree and CPA certification required.
Ten or more years experience in financial operations; non-profit/higher education environment is preferred
Experience with Workday Financials is preferred.
Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
High level interpersonal skills, with ability to work and collaborate with diverse staff at all levels of the organization.
Previous management/supervisory experience and demonstrated effectiveness with staff development and team building.
Proficient in all Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel, and strong proficiency with financial accounting software and reporting tools.