Controller of Fiscal Affairs

Founded in 1877, Philander Smith University is one of the fastest-growing historically black colleges in the nation. Ideally centered in the downtown Little Rock area, Philander Smith University is privately supported, student-centered, and intensely focused on our mission to graduate academically accomplished students who are grounded as advocates for social justice and determined to change the world for the better.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Controller of Fiscal Affairs of the University is charged with the following:

· Supervises Business Office staff, including evaluation and planning workflow, deadlines, work objectives, time utilization, and problem-solving.

· The scope of supervision encompasses all aspects of the college's fiscal operation, including, but not limited to, grant accounting, accounts payable, travel, reconciliations, accounts receivable, student accounts and cashiering, budgeting, and maintenance of general and subsidiary ledgers.

· Recommends policies and procedures related to the Business Office to the Vice President for Fiscal Affairs and implements them when approved.

· Prepares complex financial reports and analyses for internal use and presentation to the Board of Trustees.

· Prepares complex annual financial reports and analyses for external entities.

· Conducts year-end closing and the opening of financial records.

· Collaborates with other functional areas of the university to participate in strategic planning related to enrollment management and the university's growth.

· Serves as a liaison with auditors, administrative services staff, other University staff, and students.

· Provides training to users of the finance system and related functionality.

· Performs other duties as assigned by the Vice President for Fiscal Affairs.

SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS:

Knowledge of fund accounting, generally accepted accounting principles, and sound cash management principles. Extensive knowledge of higher education financial management systems and related applications, including the ability to plan, design, and implement new systems. Comprehensive knowledge of an educational finance system, including the ability to interpret college policies and procedures. Ability to organize and conduct training sessions on various aspects of the finance system to support the delivery of services to faculty, staff, and students.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Expert knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles.
• A thorough knowledge of financial reporting practices.
• Ability to prepare financial statements that require minimal audit adjustments.
• Ability to solve complex problems.
• Develop and maintain accounting policies and procedures.
• Establish and maintain an effective internal control system.
• Sound and well-developed administrative and management skills.
• Ability to recruit, train and motivate personnel.
• A CPA license is preferred.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or closely related administrative field (Certified Public Accountant with current licensure preferred);
• Demonstrated full-time, professional experience with a progressive track of increasing responsibilities and diversity in the professional portfolio;
• Demonstrated experience at the college and/or university level, specifically in the management of financial operations (private institution experience preferred); and

HOW to APPLY:

Review of applications will begin immediately, and the position will remain open until filled. Interested applicants should submit a letter of application, current vitae, and three letters of professional reference.

Philander Smith University is an equal-opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees based on age, race, sex, national origin, ethnicity, veteran

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $60,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid sick time
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Experience:

• GAAP: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person