The University Controller serves as the chief accounting officer for the institution, overseeing all accounting operations, including general accounting, financial reporting, compliance, and internal controls. This position ensures the integrity of the institution’s financial records, supports long-term financial sustainability, and provides leadership in the stewardship of institutional resources. Serving as a member of the Budget and Finance leadership team, the University Controller establishes university accounting and financial policies and standards, and manages monthly and fiscal year-end closing and financial reporting processes, as well as a variety of accounting, tax, and related processes, policies, and procedures.  In alignment with Stetson’s Strategic Priorities, the University Controller partners closely with academic, administrative, and operational leaders to provide accurate, timely, and transparent financial information that supports decision-making and advances the mission of the institution.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Employment duties include, but are not limited to the following: 

• Accounting - Perform and/or oversee accounting activities, including accounts payable/receivable, debt management, investments, endowment accounting, grant accounting, gift accounting, fixed asset tracking, tax reporting, reconciliations, monthly closing, and restricted fund management. Full responsibility for chart of accounts and general ledger.
• Compliance - Monitor and strengthen internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure compliance with federal, state and local regulations, laws, and university policies.
• Financial Statements - Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, tax filings, and other regulatory requirements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and federal, state, and local regulations.
• Audit - Coordinate and oversee all aspects of the University’s annual year-end audits, including financial results, pension plan, 403b Retirement Savings Plan, Single Audit for federal awards. Prepare necessary documents and schedules. Manage relationships with external auditors. Coordinate annual NCAA Agreed Upon Procedures and prepare/review related reporting.
• Tax - Oversee and coordinate the preparation of the annual IRS Form 990, 990T tax returns. Coordinate, review or prepare other tax filings including IRS Form1099s, 1098s, and 1042s. Review and adjust University policy appropriately for changes in the IRS tax code. Advise the AVP/CFO on tax issues.
• Policy - Develop and maintain written accounting and financial policies and procedures. Advise AVP/CFO on all accounting, tax, financial, and internal control matters. Provide advice and support to faculty and staff on university accounting and financial matters.
• Reporting – Ensure compliance with all external reporting requirements, including federal and state agencies, accreditation bodies, and auditors. Prepare and/or review annual surveys and other ad hoc reports.
• Financial Systems - Oversee financial systems set-up and processes and ensure University financial transactions and reporting are performed timely, effectively, and accurately.
• Proactively identify opportunities and collaborate with stakeholder groups to develop or improve quality of reporting; processes; and ensure appropriate documentation and maintenance of standard operating procedures.
• Treasury - Support treasury functions including cash management, forecasting; endowment distributions; investments; debt management and related reporting.
• Financial Aid – Perform or assist with the oversight of G5 draws, collaborating with the Financial Aid Office to requests funds, and reporting expenditures. 
• Grants – Collaborate with the Grants Office to ensure timely and accurate billing, drawdowns, and financial reporting for federal grants and sponsored programs.
• Work closely with AVP to develop, analyze, and present management information as is necessary for financial analysis and forecasting, evaluation of programs and internal allocations, and to support sound executive decision making.
• Lead, mentor, and develop accounting staff, fostering a culture of accuracy, accountability, continuous improvement and professional development.
• Collaborate with budget to support institutional planning and resource allocation.
• Assist AVP/CFO on bond financing, covenant compliance, and debt analysis.
• Assist AVP/CFO with the preparation of materials for the Board of Trustees meetings.
• Serves as a member of university committees as assigned.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Skills

• High ethical standards, integrity, and commitment to the institution’s mission
• Strategic thinker with attention to detail and operational excellence
• Knowledge of IRS regulations related to not-for-profit organizations and colleges and universities, including UBIT, tax-exempt bond issues, and international student and other non-resident alien income recipients
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, non-profit accounting standards (FASB), fund accounting, and financial compliance
• Proven ability to lead teams, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines
• Ability to communicate complex financial information to non-financial audiences
• Flexibility to work outside of regular office hours; some travel may be required
• Demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion through both the completion of job duties and in interactions with others
• Ability to lead cross-functional groups, work in diverse teams, and build consensus among divergent perspectives
• Support the University’s Mission and Values in their role

Required Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance or related field; or Master’s degree in related field
• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 3 years in a leadership role
• Demonstrated experience managing audits and financial reporting and analysis
• Experience with ERP/financial systems and advanced Excel Skills
• Desire to join a distinct university community committed to inclusive excellence, kindness, and collaboration, as it seeks to move Forward Together in making our community and world a better place

Ideal Candidate Qualifications: 

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license or equivalent professional credential
• Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field
• Experience in higher education is strongly preferred
• Experience with Eullican Banner or similar ERP systems; and reporting tools
• Familiarity with endowment accounting, federal student aid regulations, and grant compliance

Work Environment: Hybrid work location available, at the discretion of the supervisor. Flexibility to work outside of regular office hours, and some travel may be required.

Salary Grade: 11