Controller

Norwich University - Northfield, VT

Full-time - Mid Level

Northfield, VT

Educational Services

About the position

The Controller at Norwich University plays a pivotal role in fulfilling the institution's mission by managing the daily financial and accounting operations. This position oversees all financial policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with applicable federal and state regulations, as well as FASB standards. The Controller's responsibilities encompass a wide range of areas including Accounts Receivable, Cash Management, Endowment Administration, Accounts Payable, Financial Accounting and Reporting, Student Billing and Collection, and Federal Compliance. Additionally, the Controller is responsible for overseeing the University's uniform store, ensuring its effective operation and profitability. In this leadership role, the Controller provides guidance for university-wide accounting operations, which include managing revenues, expenses, endowments, property, treasury/cash flows, assets, and liabilities. The position requires a strong financial reporting expertise to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and policies. The Controller also leads the University Bursar Office, setting and recommending policies on student receivables and collections to maximize cash flows and retention. The Controller is tasked with maintaining an organized accounting system, including accounting policies and procedures, a chart of accounts, and a robust system of internal controls over accounting transactions. This role also involves overseeing the periodic general ledger closing process and the accounting and related analysis for all University accounts. The Controller supports the Audit, Budget and Finance, and Investment Committees of the Board of Trustees, ensuring that all financial practices align with the institution's goals and regulatory requirements. Furthermore, the Controller is responsible for the annual financial and federal uniform guidance audits, monitoring the progress of benefit plans audits to ensure timely completion by regulatory filing deadlines. The position may also involve conducting special projects and studies to address the decision-making needs of the University, thereby contributing to its strategic objectives.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily financial and accounting operations of the University.
• Oversee all financial policies and procedures.
• Lead university-wide accounting operations including revenues, expenses, endowments, and financial reporting.
• Provide leadership to the University Bursar Office.
• Set and recommend policies on student receivables and collections.
• Oversee the University's uniform store operations and profitability.
• Maintain an organized accounting system and internal controls.
• Oversee the periodic general ledger closing process.
• Support the Audit, Budget and Finance, and Investment Committees of the Board of Trustees.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, FASB, and University policies.
• Responsible for annual financial and federal uniform guidance audits.
• Conduct special projects and studies for decision-making needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required; MBA preferred.
• 7 years of relevant experience as a Controller or equivalent.
• Active Certified Public Accountant license preferred.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, SharePoint, Teams, and Outlook).
• Ability to lift 25 pounds and perform physical tasks such as sitting, squatting, reaching, pushing, and pulling.
• Willingness to work some evening or weekend hours to meet deadlines.
• Ability to travel as needed on campus.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with Ellucian/Banner financial software system.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Group life and disability insurances.
• Flexible spending accounts for health and dependent care.
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match.
• Employee assistance program.
• Paid time off.
• Use of the University pool and fitness center.
• Tuition scholarships for eligible employees and their family members.
• Potential qualification for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.