University Controller

Location

Virginia | United States

Job description

(posted 1/2/24)

Hollins University in Roanoke, Virginia invites applications from highly qualified accountants for the position of University Controller.

The University Controller will be stepping into the role at an exciting time for Hollins. Building upon a strong financial foundation that includes a $250M endowment, operating without any external debt, and a robust fundraising history, in October 2023 the university launched a new strategic plan – Transforming Learning, Transforming Lives: The Levavi Oculus Strategic Plan – along with a comprehensive fundraising campaign, that will guide the institution for the next five years.

About the Role

Under the direction of the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (EVP & COO), the University Controller is responsible for the management and oversight of all university accounting operations and working collaboratively across campus to assist in strengthening the overall financial foundation in support of student success. Additionally, this position manages four direct reports (the Associate Controller, Accounting Manager, Accountant, and Hollins Store Supervisor) within the Business Office which has three additional support staff members.

Specific duties include the following:

• Assist the EVP & COO with financial planning and forecasting, budgeting functions, cost/benefit analysis, banking activities and relationships, investments, and cash management
• Provide management and oversight of all accounting operations of the university including accounts payable, student accounts receivable, payroll, endowment and other restricted fund management, fixed assets, grant management, financial reporting functions, and Hollins Store operations
• Ensure tax compliance for the university and serve as the primary contact for the university’s annual external audit, including preparation of the annual financial statements, supporting schedules, and the annual federal 990, 990-T, and related state tax returns
• Develop and ensure accounting policies and procedures are in compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and maintain effective internal control policies and procedures
• Develop and monitor endowed and restricted budgets to ensure spending compliance with donor restrictions
• Supervise the Associate Controller, Accounting Manager, Accountant, and Hollins Store Supervisor
• Monitor departmental budgets and provide guidance to budget managers on financial matters
• Provide financial management oversight and compliance for federal and private grants received by the university
• Support the EVP & COO in preparation for the Board of Trustees Committee on Financial Affairs and Committee on Audit and participates in those meetings

Position Qualifications

Successful applicants must have the following qualifications and experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting
• Current CPA certification
• Minimum of five years of progressive relevant experience, preferably in higher education
• Strong knowledge of accounting, payroll, and reporting policies and procedures in the not-for-profit industry
• Excellent leadership, supervisory, communication, interpersonal, customer service, detail, accuracy, organizational, multitasking, decision-making, problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills
• Proven abilities to meet deadlines, make sound judgments, manage confidential and sensitive matters, work effectively with internal and external constituents and develop collaborative relationships, and work in a highly interruptive environment with fluctuating priorities
• Understanding of and commitment to working in and fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment

Preferred candidates will have the following:

• Experience working at a private higher education institution
• Experience with Ellucian Banner as an ERP system, ADP Workforce Now for payroll, Nelnet for student accounts, and Orbit as a reporting tool

Application Process

Qualified candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to [email protected] . Candidates are encouraged to comment in their cover letter on how their contributions will further the university’s efforts to ensure the success and inclusion of all members of its community. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Semi-final candidates will be asked to submit contact information for three references. Once the selected candidate accepts a contingent employment offer, credit and criminal history background checks will be conducted.

About Hollins

Hollins University is dedicated to academic excellence, creativity, belonging, and preparing students for lives of purpose. Hollins provides an outstanding and academically rigorous undergraduate liberal arts education for women and entrepreneurial and innovative graduate programs for all in a gender-inclusive environment. The university promotes opportunities for research, study abroad, and leadership training, and offers real-world experience through global internships supported by an extensive alumnae/i network.

An equal opportunity employer, Hollins fosters diversity and inclusiveness at every level of the university.  Persons of all genders; persons with disabilities; persons of all racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds; and first-generation college graduates are encouraged to apply.

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