Assistant Controller

Position Summary:

The Assistant Controller plays a critical role in the financial stewardship and operational effectiveness of [Institution Name], with a particular focus on budgeting, financial planning, and budget analysis. Reporting to the Controller or CFO, this position provides leadership and oversight of the institution’s annual budgeting process, supports long-range financial planning, and ensures accurate and timely financial reporting.

The ideal candidate will bring a combination of strong technical accounting knowledge, hands-on experience in budget development and monitoring, and a deep understanding of the financial landscape in higher education or nonprofit organizations.

Key Responsibilities:

Budgeting and Financial Planning (50%)

• Lead or coordinate the annual budgeting process, including calendar development, stakeholder communication, and data collection.

• Analyze departmental budget proposals and provide recommendations to ensure fiscal responsibility and alignment with institutional priorities.

• Develop, refine, and present monthly, quarterly, and annual budget-to-actual reports with variance analysis.

• Support multi-year budget planning and forecasting using financial models and scenario planning tools.

• Partner with institutional leaders and department heads to provide financial insights and promote data-informed decision-making.

Accounting and Financial Reporting (40%)

• Assist with monthly and year-end closings, account reconciliations, and journal entries.

• Ensure compliance with GAAP and relevant regulatory standards in financial reporting.

• Support the annual audit process, including preparation of audit schedules and coordination with external auditors.

• Assist in the preparation of financial statements, reports to the board, and other ad hoc financial analyses.

Process Improvement and Internal Controls (10%)

• Recommend and implement improvements to budget processes and financial systems for greater efficiency and transparency.

• Monitor and support internal control procedures to protect institutional assets.

• Provide training and guidance to staff and departments on budget policies, procedures, and tools.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (CPA or advanced degree preferred).

• 5–7 years of progressive experience in accounting and budgeting, with at least 3 years in higher education or nonprofit finance.

• Solid understanding of fund accounting, restricted funds, and grants management.

• Strong analytical and communication skills with the ability to interpret and clearly explain complex financial data.

• Proficiency in financial software and reporting tools (e.g., Excel, Banner, Workday, Blackbaud, Adaptive Planning, or similar systems).

Preferred Qualifications:

• CPA certification or Master’s in Accounting, Finance, or Public Administration.

• Experience supporting or managing external financial audits.

• Familiarity with federal and state compliance requirements relevant to higher education or nonprofit entities.

• Knowledge of endowment accounting and financial reporting to donor/funding agencies.