ControllerThe Controller is a senior financial leader responsible for overseeing the university's accounting operations, financial reporting, compliance, and internal controls. This role ensures the integrity of financial systems and supports strategic decision-making through accurate and timely financial data. The Controller plays a critical role in maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency across the institution.
Benefits Include:- Retirement benefits with an 8% match
- Medical, Dental, Vision and supplemental insurance
- Free or discounted tuition for employees and dependents
- Discounted meal plan
- Discounted membership at the campus Wellness Center
Essential Roles/Responsibilities:
Financial Reporting & Compliance- Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including IRS, DOE, and other regulatory bodies.
- Coordinate annual audits and manage relationships with external auditors.
Accounting Operations- Oversee general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, and fixed asset accounting.
- Maintain and improve internal control systems to safeguard university assets.
- Supervise and mentor accounting staff, fostering a culture of accuracy and accountability
Policy & Procedure Development- Develop and enforce financial policies and procedures that align with best practices and institutional goals.
- Ensure proper documentation and training for financial systems and processes.
Technology & Systems- Manage financial systems and software, ensuring data integrity and system efficiency.
- Lead or support ERP implementations and upgrades as needed.
Budgeting & Forecasting- Collaborate with the VP of Financial Affairs and department heads to develop and monitor the annual budget.
- Provide financial analysis and forecasting to support strategic initiatives and long-term planning.
Education Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, and a Master's or CPA required.
- Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in higher education or nonprofit sector.
Qualifications
- Represents the Office of Financial Affairs with integrity and a high level of professionalism
- Strong knowledge of GAAP, fund accounting, and federal compliance requirements.
- Proficiency in financial systems (e.g., Ellucian, Workday, Banner) and Microsoft Excel.
- Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Maintains absolute confidentiality and discretion in all matters related to the Office of Financial Affairs and associated areas of responsibility
- Experience with grant accounting and restricted funds.
- Familiarity with endowment management and donor reporting.
- Ability to thrive in a mission-driven, collaborative environment.
knowledge and skills
- High degree of tact, discretion, and diplomacy in dealing with sensitive situations and individuals
- Ability to work independently and with a team of colleagues
- Ability to set priorities and exercise sound judgment in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to understand, interpret, explain, and apply rules and policies applicable to areas of responsibility
- Strong organizational and verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to prepare clear, accurate, and concise correspondence, records, reports, and other documents
- Expertise with Microsoft Office software applications, especially Excel
- Preferably proficiency with the Jenzabar database
UNIVERSITY PROFILEStudent Population: Fall 2024 enrollment of 3,801, including 2,288 traditional undergraduate students and 1,513 graduate and nontraditional students. The student/faculty ratio is 10:1, with a 17% minority population representing all 50 states and 19 countries.
Academics: The University of Mary boasts 294 faculty members, offering 60+ bachelor's degree programs, 21 master's degree programs, 5 doctoral degree programs, and 16 pre-professional programs.
Campus Facilities & Surrounding Community: a main campus with 866,000 square feet of facilities, 13 residence halls & apartment buildings, a research library with 50,000+ volumes, a 24/7 campus restaurant, coffee shops, and a pub, along with 9 satellite locations throughout the United States and abroad. Bismarck/Mandan is an intimate metropolitan area with a population of approximately 120,000, exemplary family and parish life, friendly neighborhoods, a low crime rate, clean air, and excellent schools, and enjoyable recreational and cultural facilities: 75+ miles of hiking trails, 62 parks, 7 golf courses, and four seasons of recreational opportunities on the Missouri River. For more information on the University of Mary, please watch a short video by clicking on this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go37Hy6QrVs. A campus tour is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XY66HYhVQSE.
