Controller

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION

Additional specific responsibilities of the controller include:

• Review financial reports for consistency, accuracy, accountability, and timeliness.
• Oversee the timely closing of month-end and year-end financial account activities.
• Train and cross-train for essential positions, developing and maintaining adequate backup personnel.
• Oversee college-collection processes, including managing various college staff responsible for cash collection and accounting activities.
• Conduct all accounts-receivable dispute-resolution discussions and meetings with vendors, employers, parents, and students.
• Oversee timely and accurate deposit of all college funds.
• Direct the timely mailing of appropriate billing according to college schedules.
• Plan, develop, and monitor annual budgets for financial affairs and the bursar’s office (approximately $900,000), including providing budget input for audit costs.
• Conduct special studies, investigations, or other services as directed by the vice president of financial services and operations.
• Oversee staff training for the Colleague financial management system.
• Conduct quarterly informational meetings for all accounts-receivable and cash-management staff at all college campuses and centers.
• Oversee development activities related to the class schedule to ensure correct information regarding college billing, FACTS payment, etc.
• Oversee procurement and inventory functions.
• Participate in the college’s Student Grievance Committee.

QUALIFICATIONS AND CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE

The successful candidate will have a master’s degree in accounting, finance, or business administration; CPA is preferred. Three years of experience in higher education administration or three years of experience auditing higher education institutions is required. Three years minimum of management experience in general ledger accounting operations is also required. Successful candidates will also possess proven managerial ability with specific training in supervisory/management skills and responsibilities; knowledge and expertise in accounting and financial management operations through participation in professional organizations; knowledge and expertise in Datatel Colleague and/or other ERP system functionality; ability to maintain positive working relationships with the college community and external financial reporting agencies; ability to perform detailed work independently, as well as in a team environment; proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; comprehensive knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles; experience with an integrated financial data system; and demonstrated ability to communicate and interact effectively at all levels of the organization.

In addition to the qualifications stated above, key stakeholders indicated that the successful candidate should be someone who possesses:

• An understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to the financial strategies of a publicly funded community college.
• Impeccable integrity and high ethical standards.
• An innovative, strategic, and entrepreneurial approach to problem-solving and partnership.
• Expertise in current financial methodology and regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to use data in guiding business strategy and outcomes.
• The ability and willingness to delegate effectively and hold direct reports accountable.
• Skill and transparency in all decision-making.
• Customer focus and dedication to providing optimum service.
• Outstanding interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated public speaking ability to include presentation to the board of trustees.
• A record of superior communication skills, relationship-building, and collaboration with internal stakeholder groups.
• Strong leadership, vision, and managerial skills.
• Flexible adaptation to changing circumstances and commitment to regular assessment and process improvement.
• Support for staff development and the ability to create a strong team environment.
• The ability to think strategically and work as a hands-on member of the team when necessary.
• A strong understanding of best practices in higher-education finance.

OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES OF THE ROLE

The controller must understand best practices in financial management for higher education. In addition to strong technical skills, the new controller must be able to build, mentor, retain, and support a strong team within the office. It will be critical to engage staff members in the strategy and direction of the organization.

Additional opportunities, priorities, and challenges for the controller, as articulated by stakeholders, are as follows:

• The college is financially strong, with a steady enrollment.
• The controller will have the opportunity to evaluate current technology and consider the adoption of new resources in this area to streamline complex processes.
• The controller must stay current in knowledge of federal audit requirements and tax obligations for non-profits and higher education.
• They will need strong change management skills.
• The campus is supportive and respectful of the role of the controller.
• The new controller will find an institution that recognizes and welcomes creativity, collaboration, and innovation in processes and solutions.
• The controller must earn the trust and confidence of campus leadership and direct reports.
• The controller should be a visible and engaged member of the campus community.
• Additional revenue streams have been identified, but they will need to grow and support the overall budget of the campus.
• The controller will find that annual reports and audits are completed and in compliance with required reporting.
• The controller will work to identify current needs to improve existing processes and better serve the campus continually.