Financial Controller

About Carolina University

Carolina University is a fully accredited, private, nonprofit university with approximately 1,000 students and a strategic vision for scalable online enrollment growth. With tuition less than half the national average, CU offers degree programs to train students for well-paying, high-demand fields such as AI, Business, Engineering, Psychology, Data Science, Criminal Justice, Computer Science, and Education. As we expand our digital learning presence, we seek a forward-thinking Controller to oversee financial operations and ensure fiscal sustainability.

Position Summary

The Financial Controller will play a critical role in managing the financial health of Carolina University, ensuring compliance with accounting standards, and implementing financial strategies that support the institution’s growth. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with experience in higher education finance, nonprofit accounting, and technology-driven financial management.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting operations, including AP/AR, payroll, general ledger, and financial reporting.
• Monitor cash flow and maintain internal controls to safeguard university assets and prevent fraud or mismanagement.
• Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Lead and manage budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes.
• Ensure compliance with nonprofit financial regulations and reporting, including GAAP, IRS, Department of Education, and accreditation-related requirements.
• Lead financial audits and coordinate with external auditors.
• Leverage AI and automation to reduce administrative expenses.
• Optimize financial processes to support scalable online enrollment growth.
• Evaluate and implement technology solutions to enhance financial operations.
• Supervise finance/business office staff and ensure accurate transaction recording.
• Support leadership in financial decision-making and strategic planning.
• Advise senior leadership on financial decisions and growth opportunities.
• Work closely with enrollment, financial aid, and marketing teams to optimize tuition models and payment structures to support scalable online enrollment growth.
• Work with development/advancement to oversee donor and endowment accounting.
• Ensure that grant, endowment, and donation funds are allocated and utilized in full compliance with donor stipulations and regulatory mandates.
• Prepare and review Forms 990, 5500, Charitable Solicitations.
• Manage institutional insurance policies.
• Perform other functions as necessary or as assigned.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required; CPA or Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience: 5 years of experience in accounting/finance, preferably in higher education or nonprofit organizations.

Skills:

• Strong knowledge of GAAP, nonprofit accounting, and financial compliance.
• Proficiency in financial management software.
• Proficient in Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drive, Gmail, Calendar, and Forms) for efficient collaboration, data management, and communication.
• Experience managing budgets and financial planning in a growing institution.
• Strong in accounting, audit, and compliance.
• Ability to adapt financial processes to support online enrollment growth.
• Strong analytical leadership and communication skills.

Why Join Carolina University?

• Be part of an institution strategically positioned for scalable growth in online education.
• Have an opportunity to shape financial strategies in a dynamic academic environment.
• Enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package.
• Earn potential upward mobility into a senior level position such as Executive Director of Finance or CFO.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience.

Salary:

$90,000 - $110,000

Competitive and based on experience.

Schedule:

Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Flexibility to work additional hours when needed based on business demands.

Location:

Carolina University

420 S. Broad Street

Winston-Salem, NC 28701

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) plan with employer matching.
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays.
• Reduced Meal Plan on campus
• Professional development opportunities.

Application Question:

• Our mission statement is: We are a Christ-centered University committed to student success. Are you able to support and uphold the Christian values and mission of our institution?

Carolina University does not discriminate based on race, color, sex, or national origin in staff employment practices. However, as a Christian organization, the University employs Christ-centered professionals who agree to follow the Carolina University Code of Conduct.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $90,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $90,000 - $110,000