Controller

Shenandoah University - Winchester, VA

Full-time - Mid Level

Hybrid - Winchester, VA

Educational Services

About the position

Shenandoah University's Office of Finance and Accounting is seeking a highly skilled Controller to lead and oversee the university's financial and accounting functions. This full-time position is based on the main Winchester, Virginia campus, with the possibility of occasional remote work after a 90-day probationary period. The Controller will play a crucial role in shaping the financial strategy of the university, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and providing expert guidance to senior leadership. As a key member of the Finance team, the Controller will be responsible for directing all accounting functions, including general ledger management, financial reporting, and compliance. This position requires a strong leader who can supervise the Office of the Controller, which encompasses general accounting, endowment and grant accounting, purchasing, accounts payable, and other accounting operations. The Controller will ensure the timely and accurate preparation of financial statements, reconciliations, tax returns, and management reports. They will oversee external financial reporting and maintain rigorous standards for financial integrity. Additionally, the Controller will assist the Financial Planning office with budget development, manage cash flow forecasting, and prepare financial materials for meetings and communications. The role also involves producing ad hoc financial reports and analyses to support strategic decision-making, managing accounting for endowments and investments, and establishing comprehensive internal controls to protect university assets and ensure accurate financial data. Moreover, the Controller will oversee the annual external audit process, ensuring effective communication with auditors and timely distribution of financial statements and data to internal and external stakeholders. Collaboration is key in this role, as the Controller will partner with Human Resources and Financial Planning on payroll and fringe benefit matters, as well as with Student Financial Services on billing, accounts receivable, and financial aid distribution and reporting matters. This position is essential for aligning financial practices with the university's goals and ensuring the financial health of Shenandoah University.

Responsibilities

• Direct all accounting functions, including general ledger management, financial reporting, and compliance.
• Serve as a senior advisor to the VP of Finance and CFO, offering strategic insights into the university's financial position.
• Supervise the Office of the Controller, covering areas such as general accounting, endowment and grant accounting, purchasing, accounts payable, and other accounting operations.
• Ensure timely and accurate preparation of financial statements, reconciliations, tax returns, and management reports.
• Oversee external financial reporting and maintain rigorous standards for financial integrity.
• Assist the Financial Planning office with budget development, manage cash flow forecasting, and prepare financial materials for meetings and communications.
• Produce ad hoc financial reports and analyses to support strategic decision-making.
• Manage accounting for endowments and investments, including the use of endowment management software.
• Establish and uphold comprehensive internal controls to protect university assets and ensure accurate financial data.
• Develop and implement accounting policies and procedures in alignment with industry standards.
• Oversee the annual external audit process and ensure effective communication with auditors.
• Ensure financial statements and data are distributed timely to internal and external stakeholders.
• Partner with Human Resources and Financial Planning on payroll and fringe benefit matters.
• Collaborate with Student Financial Services on billing, accounts receivable, financial aid distribution and reporting matters.
• Work with various departments to align financial practices with university goals.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business, or a related field.
• 10+ years of accounting or financial reporting experience, including work in higher education or large, complex organizations.
• Direct management experience is essential.
• Comprehensive knowledge of GAAP, FASB standards, AICPA guidelines, and federal compliance requirements.
• Proficiency with Ellucian Colleague or similar ERP financial systems.

Nice-to-haves

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
• Proven experience interacting effectively with senior executives and governing boards.
• Master's degree in Business, Accounting, or a related field.

Benefits

• Full-time position with benefits after a 90-day probationary period.
• Occasional remote work possible after probation.