What are the responsibilities and job description for the Controller position at University of Central Arkansas?
The Controller is responsible for providing leadership and coordination of the University’s financial reporting, debt financing, and financial management. Primary responsibilities include supervising daily operations in the areas of financial accounting and reporting, accounts payable, inventory control, and banking and investment management. The Controller will also assist other departments in the division and across the organization as needed. This position is governed by generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), state and federal laws, and institution policy.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
The Controller ensures accounting procedures conform to generally accepted accounting principles, manages the preparation of monthly and annual reports of financial activities, and directs financial audits. The Controller analyzes financial reports and underlying data, forecasts future financial results, creates pro forma statements for University initiatives, coordinates appropriations requests, and manages communications with external financial stakeholders. The selected candidate will operate as a member of the finance team within the division of Finance and Administration to develop the strategic vision and practical implementation of the University’s financial policies and practices.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
The selected candidate should have considerable knowledge of accounting principles and practices based on the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB), to include the recording, classifying and examination of financial transactions and the ability to analyze financial data, recognize errors, and implement corrections. The candidate should be familiar with best practices for internal controls, and proven ability to establish and document policies and procedures.
Additionally, the candidate must possess strong interpersonal and organizational skills; have demonstrated abilities with computer programs including spreadsheets and accounting systems (Banner preferred); possess thorough understanding of month-end and year-end closing processes and reconciliations; have an understanding of fund accounting; and have the ability to work independently. The candidate should also value and have the ability to provide and facilitate excellent customer service. This position requires integrity and sound judgment, leadership, and communication skills.
Skills Considered Essential for Success
- Knowledge of the organization and administration of higher education.
- Knowledge of state, federal, and university rules, regulations and procedures.
- Ability to work in a diverse and dynamic environment.
- Ability to work collaboratively and independently with common goals as a part of a team.
- Ability to make sound judgments.
- Effective interpersonal communication, writing, and organizational abilities.
- Civility in all interactions.
- Demonstrate effective follow-up.
Required qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or equivalent and seven years of progressively responsible financial management experience, including hands-on experience preparing and/or analyzing financial statements.
Preferred Education and/or Experience
Preferred experience to include financial operations at a public college/university and and/or other fund accounting. A Master’s degree in Accounting, Masters in Business Administration (MBA), and/or CPA certification are preferred. Minimum three years direct supervisory experience required.
University, Campus, and Community Description
Thank you for your interest in employment at the University of Central Arkansas.
Founded in 1907, UCA has an enrollment of nearly 10,000, of which more than 20% are graduate students. The university offers more than 150 undergraduate and graduate certificate and degree programs, including doctoral programs in six disciplines. The undergraduate student body consistently scores above the national average on the ACT exam. UCA is proud of its tradition of teaching excellence and its contributions to research, scholarship, and creative activities. UCA seeks to attract students and employees that are dedicated to building a culture of diversity, belonging, inclusion, and equity.
Desired start date 04/16/2025
Founded in 1907, UCA has an enrollment of nearly 10,000, of which more than 20% are graduate students. The university offers more than 150 undergraduate and graduate certificate and degree programs, including doctoral programs in six disciplines. The undergraduate student body consistently scores above the national average on the ACT exam. UCA is proud of its tradition of teaching excellence and its contributions to research, scholarship, and creative activities. UCA seeks to attract students and employees that are dedicated to building a culture of diversity, belonging, inclusion, and equity.
Position Summary and Qualifications
License(s)/Certifications
CPA is preferred
Physical Demands Checklist
Sitting, Kneeling, Standing, Walking
Physical Exertion
Administrative Work - Exerting up to 10 pounds, Light Work - Exerting up to 20 pounds
Posting Detail Information
Background Check Statement
This position may be subject to a pre-employment criminal, sex-offender registry, financial history background check and drug screening. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication and/or adverse financial history alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background checks and drug screening information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.
