Controller

Company Description

Belhaven University is an innovative and academically progressive institution built on the timeless principles of scholarship, service, and biblical truth. Since its founding, Belhaven University has sought to fulfill the mission expressed in its motto: "to serve, not to be served." “Our Standard is Christ” is the identifier of Belhaven University because as an institution we are committed to honoring the Lord in all we do. Located in Jackson, Mississippi, we are one of America’s most innovative and fastest growing private schools, serving nearly 6,100 undergraduate and graduate students. This includes the 1,000 traditional students in Jackson. Belhaven University was an early innovator in accelerated adult education, and have equally led the way among Christian schools in establishing robust online degree programs. 

Role Description

Belhaven University is seeking a Controller who will be responsible to lead daily financial transactions for the University. Reporting to the Director of Finance, the Controller serves as a trusted partner and financial steward contributing to an accounting team that is responsible for accounts payable, student accounts, payroll coordination, external relationships, and general ledger operations. The Controllership is central to preserving Belhaven University’s financial strength through accuracy, compliance, and operational insight, ensuring that we maintain the highest standards of accuracy, compliance, and internal controls.

Functions and Responsibilities

• Contribute to the Business Office and Student Accounts Receivable workload.

• Participate in accounting, reporting, and reconciliation of receipts and disbursements; unrestricted and restricted funding, grants, and contracts; fixed assets; capital projects; endowments; student loans; accounts payable; student receivables; annuities; trusts; and, required federal and state fiscal reporting (including all required tax returns).

• Provide relationship leadership between the University and our Auditors.

• Prepare schedules and financial statements for the annual independent audit.

• Analyze cash flow and contribute to management decisions related to short-term working capital investments.

• Develop, maintain, and ensure internal controls are adhered to with respect to cash management, revenue recognition, expenditures, payables, and capital assets.

• Participate in the development of the annual budget and monthly reporting of budget to actual variances, working across the Institution with Budget Managers with good stewardship of resources, as assigned.

• Maintain understanding of federal and state laws and regulations relevant to the fiscal operations of the University

• Assist in special accounting and finance projects with the AVP and Director of Finance.

• Participate in official and ad hoc committee assignments as directed.

Qualifications

• Strong expertise in Financial Reporting, Financial Analysis, and Budget Management
• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and regulatory compliance
• Proficiency in Accounting Systems and Tools, as well as advanced Excel skills
• Leadership and Team Management experience, with effective communication and collaboration abilities
• Detail-oriented with excellent problem-solving and organizational skills
• Experience with external audits and financial statement preparation
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting with three to five years of progressive accounting experience
• Experience in higher education or non-profit financial management is a plus
• The successful candidate must articulate a Christian worldview in one's area of service and must fully support the University Vision, Mission and Statement of Faith. https://www.belhaven.edu/about/mission/