Controller

Job Summary

Provides strategic leadership and oversight of the University’s accounting and controllership functions to ensure accurate financial reporting, strong internal controls, regulatory compliance, and sound fiscal stewardship. Directs the University’s core accounting operations, including financial reporting, general accounting, capital improvements, treasury, payroll, fixed assets, accounts payable, foundation, and student accounts, while serving as a trusted advisor to University leadership on accounting and financial matters.

Controller’s Operations:
Financial Leadership

• Direct the University’s accounting and controllership functions, including General Accounting, Payroll, Accounts Payable, Student Accounts, and Foundation related support
• Lead month-end and year-end close processes to ensure timely, accurate financial reporting
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, GASB pronouncements, state and federal regulations, and University policies
• Serve as key liaison with University of Louisiana System in close coordination with Vice President of Finance

• Lead preparation of the University’s Annual Financial Report (AFR) and other required federal, state, NCAA, Board of Regents, SACSCOC, and IPEDS reporting
• Provide executive leadership with timely financial analysis, dashboards, and decision-support reporting
• Interpret accounting standards and recommend implementation strategies

• Coordinate all external financial audits and serve as the University’s primary accounting liaison with auditors
• Lead responses to audit findings and oversee implementation of corrective actions
• Maintain a comprehensive system of internal controls and risk management practices

• Champion continuous improvement initiatives by leveraging Banner ERP, automation, workflow enhancements, and emerging technologies to improve efficiency, strengthen controls, and enhance financial reporting

Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Financial Leadership
• Strategic Financial Reporting and Analysis
• Audit, Compliance & Internal Controls
• Leadership, Technology & Continuous Improvement
• University support and training
• Other duties

Qualifications

Minimum:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, or related field
• Five years of progressively responsible accounting or finance leadership
• Supervisory experience leading professional accounting staff
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and governmental accounting principles
• Excellent analytical, communication, leadership skills

• CPA strongly preferred
• MBA or other related advanced degree
• Higher education accounting experience
• 3-5 years of Banner ERP experience
• Experience with GASB reporting
• Experience leading financial audit

Supplemental Information

Applications without the following will not be considered complete.

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Transcript(s) if applicable
• Curriculum Vitae if applicable

State As a Model Employer