Director of Accounting & Finance

Job Summary:

The Director of Accounting & Finance works closely with campus administration to provide fiscal management that meets strategic goals and objectives while ensuring compliance with laws, regulations, and generally accepted accounting principles; oversees the accounting and finance functions of the campus including general accounting, grants accounting, capital asset/equipment inventory management, student accounts, cashiering, Perkins loan program, and the UNK ID card program; monitors the financial status of the housing auxiliary program and related debt requirements; serves as UNK representative on u-wide committees related to accounting and financial systems.

Additional Info

Required Qualifications:

A bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a closely related field.

Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible accounting or financial management experience, including professional experience in public accounting and demonstrated supervisory or management experience. Experience must demonstrate substantial responsibility for financial reporting, generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), internal controls, audit, financial analysis, and complex accounting operations.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation, active or inactive, required.

Demonstrated leadership, analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities; strong understanding of accounting standards, financial controls, and audit practices; ability to lead and develop professional staff; strong technology and financial systems aptitude; and excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively advise senior leaders and non-financial stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications:

Master's degree in business administration, accounting, finance, or a related field.

Accounting or financial leadership experience in higher education, government, or another complex decentralized organization. Experience with ERP financial systems, fund accounting, grants accounting, governmental accounting standards, and implementation of significant financial system or process improvements.

The ideal candidate is a collaborative and experienced financial leader who combines strong technical accounting expertise with sound judgment, integrity, and a commitment to service. The successful candidate will be comfortable operating in a complex environment, developing and leading staff, strengthening internal controls, and translating complex financial matters for a broad range of stakeholders. They will bring a continuous-improvement mindset, using technology and best practices to simplify processes, improve efficiency, and maintain strong financial stewardship and compliance. The ideal candidate will be a trusted advisor who builds effective relationships across the institution and is willing to identify issues, recommend solutions, and communicate difficult financial matters when necessary.

Successful candidate must be legally authorized to work in the United States as of the effective date of appointment and throughout their employment with the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK). UNK is unable to provide employment visa sponsorship for this position.

About Us:

The University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) is a public university committed to excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement. As part of the University of Nebraska system, UNK offers a supportive, student-focused environment with the resources of a larger institution. Located in central Nebraska, UNK serves around 6,000 students and is known for its strong academics, welcoming campus culture, and dedication to student success. Join a team that values innovation, collaboration, and the power of education to transform lives.

As a University of Nebraska employee, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, retirement, and wellness programs—plus 13 paid holidays each year, generous leave options, and tuition remission.