Controller

Wilberforce University - Wilberforce, OH

Part-time,Full-time - Mid Level

Wilberforce, OH

Educational Services

About the position

The Controller at Wilberforce University plays a pivotal role in overseeing all accounting and cash functions and systems within the institution. This position is responsible for ensuring that the development, implementation, and monitoring of appropriate internal controls are in place, while also serving as the functional owner of the system finance module. The Controller is expected to uphold the highest ethical standards in accounting practices and personal conduct, reflecting the values of the University. In this role, the Controller will plan and direct the fiscal functions of the University, evaluating the effectiveness of internal controls and implementing necessary changes in consultation with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The position involves coordinating all external audits, preparing financial statements and footnotes for auditors and other stakeholders, and managing financial accounting and reporting for the University. The Controller will also assess the impact of proposed regulatory actions or changes to accounting standards, providing timely and accurate analyses of financial reports. Additionally, the Controller will enhance and develop policies and procedures aimed at improving overall operations, efficiency, and effectiveness. This includes leading efforts to reconcile and manage University Endowments, supervising the reconciliation of bank accounts, investment accounts, and other balance sheet activities. The Controller will evaluate the office structure and team to ensure continual improvement and will develop procedures to manage the University’s cash flow effectively. Other duties may be assigned as necessary to support the financial health of the institution.

Responsibilities

• Plans and directs the University's fiscal function.
• Evaluates the effectiveness of internal controls at the University and implements changes in consultation with the CFO.
• Coordinates all external audits of the University.
• Prepares financial statements and footnotes for auditors and other interested parties.
• Manages financial accounting and reporting for the University.
• Evaluates the impact of proposed regulatory action or changes to accounting standards.
• Provides timely and accurate analysis of financial reports.
• Enhances and/or develops, implements, and enforces policies and procedures to improve overall operations, efficiency, and effectiveness.
• Leads efforts to reconcile and manage University Endowments.
• Supervises and reviews the reconciliation of University bank accounts, investment accounts, and other balance sheet activity.
• Evaluates office structure and team to ensure continual improvement.
• Develops and implements procedures to manage the University cash flow.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field; Master's Preferred.
• Five (5) years' experience in fiscal affairs at a university.
• Extensive knowledge, training, and experience of accounting and auditing standards and regulations.
• Ability to use software employed to quantify and illustrate complex financial reports.
• Ability to establish, direct, and enforce financial control systems, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to gather data, analyze and compile information, and prepare reports.
• Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with a wide range of constituents.
• Ability to select, manage, develop, and empower the team within the Director of Business and Finance's Office.
• Leadership ability within a diverse environment.
• Skill in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures, formulating policy, and developing and implementing new strategies and procedures.