Controller

Position Overview

A client of 415 Group is actively seeking a highly skilled and experienced Controller to join their team. Under the direction of the Chief Financial Officer, the Controller will lead all accounting operations, manage the Business Office staff, and ensure the integrity of financial reporting and compliance. This is a pivotal role with strategic and operational responsibilities across finance, accounting, and internal controls.

Key Responsibilities Financial Oversight & Reporting

• Direct all accounting functions including general ledger, payroll, accounts payable/receivable, and financial statements.
• Coordinate the monthly and year-end close processes with timely and accurate financial reporting.
• Prepare and present financial reports to internal leadership and external stakeholders, including quarterly Board statements and surveys (IPEDS, NACUBO).
• Lead the preparation of the University’s annual financial audit, A-133 compliance audit, and benefit plan audits.
• Maintain and update accounting policies and procedures to ensure regulatory compliance and internal control.
• Coordinate preparation of the annual 990 tax return and related schedules.

Audit & Compliance

• Serve as the primary contact for external auditors and ensure completion of all audit activities.
• Monitor compliance with GAAP and tax-exempt regulations, including oversight of tax-exempt bond accounting and reporting.
• Design and maintain the University’s internal control environment.
• Ensure data integrity for financial surveys and reporting compliance.

Operational Management

• Manage and supervise Business Office operations, including billing, collections, credit cards, cash management, procurement, institutional loans (including Perkins), and investment accounting.
• Oversee treasury functions and relationships with banking institutions, including fee analysis and vendor selection.
• Maintain and track endowment unitization and fixed asset accounting.
• Coordinate gift pledge records with Advancement to ensure accurate reporting and discounting methods.
• Oversee fiscal administration of deferred giving programs.

Strategic Initiatives & Leadership

• Develop and monitor the Business Office budget and prepare the annual budget request.
• Assist in evaluating and managing key financial service relationships (audit, actuarial, tax, and insurance).
• Serve as a key contributor to campus committees such as Policy, Insurance, and Investment Committees.
• Maintain confidentiality of financial plans and strategic decisions.
• Provide mentorship and development for accounting and business office staff.
• Ensure accurate cost allocation and reporting of grants in coordination with the Director of Grants.

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting required; CPA and/or MBA highly preferred.
• 7 years of experience in accounting or financial leadership roles, preferably within higher education or nonprofit environments.
• Strong understanding of GAAP, tax-exempt regulations, and endowment accounting.
• Demonstrated leadership in financial statement preparation, audit coordination, and treasury management.
• Experience with Ellucian Colleague (preferred).
• Strong interpersonal, analytical, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple time-sensitive projects and tasks with attention to detail.
• Familiarity with IRS regulations pertaining to not-for-profit organizations and higher education institutions.
• Professional discretion and a commitment to confidentiality.
• Appreciation for working in an academic setting.
  
  Company: University of Mount Union
  Location: Alliance OH
  Job Type: Full-Time
  Experience Level: Senior-Level
  Reports To: Chief Financial Officer