University of Massachusetts Dartmouth · 8 hours ago
Controller
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth is seeking a Controller to manage the activities of the Controller’s Office and provide expert guidance on accounting issues in line with regulations. The role focuses on strategic implications of business decisions, financial reporting, compliance, and risk management, while overseeing fiscal operations and leading a team of finance professionals.
Higher Education
Responsibilities
Oversees fiscal operations, reporting, financial analysis, and planning, including the development and management of complex financial models, interpreting and applying generally accepted accounting practices to campus operations
Directs the University’s accounting operations, ensuring accurate financial reporting, maintenance of accounting records, and implementation of internal controls to mitigate risk
Prepares and analyzes a wide range of financial reports including audited financial statements, variance analyses, cash flow reports, disbursement and debt analyses, and capital/depreciation schedules
Collaborates with the UMass system Controller, Treasurer, Budget Office and other campus Controllers to develop policies, implement procedures, and manage accounting and operational changes
Establishes and evaluates accounting policies and procedures, refining online policy guidelines for clarity and accessibility and confers with the CFO on matters not addressed by existing policy or when exceptions are warranted
Oversees the integration of the University’s financial systems (e.g. PeopleSoft, Concur), reporting platforms, and feeder systems to ensure alignment with accounting operations
Serves as liaison to campus constituents to accomplish department goals and acts as primary liaisons between Budget and Finance and the campus research community
Coordinates with post-award sponsored accounting to ensure compliance with federal regulations and monitors cash flow and accounts receivable related to drawdowns, billing, and collection of sponsored activity
Coordinates with campus partners to prepare required financial reports for institutional, state, federal, and accreditation purposes
Analyzes business decisions and translates their impact on the University’s financial statements
Maintains and safeguards the University’s official financial records
Serves as principal audit liaison for internal and external audits
Coordinates preparation of annual and interim financial statements with President’s Office and external auditors, responds to audit findings, and oversees corrective action plans and Chapter 647 reporting
Coordinates with UMass System tax office to manage campus compliance with tax regulations, including preparation of UBIT returns, private-use tracking, and 1098-T adjustments
Serves as campus ecommerce representative to ensure merchant compliance with PCI DSS standards
Oversees compliance with University travel and expense policy, including student travel
Serves as data custodian, establishing and monitoring access to financial systems for campus users
Promotes the University's commitment to service excellence by building effective partnerships across campus
Provides team-oriented leadership in resource management, project supervision, and financial analysis, with emphasis on strategic planning, team development and performance measurement
Serves on committees, attends meetings, and provides regular updates to departmental leadership
Performs other duties that may be assigned and/or the job duties changed periodically to reflect changing organization needs
Qualification
Required
Master's degree in related field (CPA may be substituted for degree requirement)
Significant (8 years) of progressively responsible accounting or finance experience, including management responsibilities
Experience with integrated financial systems and reporting and analysis software
Demonstrated ability to motivate, lead, and develop staff
Extensive knowledge of financial reporting and analysis software and familiarity with complex, integrated financial systems
Strong organizational, interpersonal, oral and written communication skills, with proven ability to interpret and explain complex regulations, policies, and procedures
In-depth understanding of US GAAP and GASB standards
Proficiency in spreadsheets and databases for data analysis and reporting
Advanced financial analysis skills, with the ability to connect detailed data to strategic decision-making
Strong strategic planning ability and creativity in developing long-term solutions
Skill in analyzing systems and processes to maximize efficiency, ensure compliance, and improve customer service
Proven ability to build and maintain effective working relationships across administration, faculty, and staff
Experience working collaboratively and promoting customer service in a decentralized environment
Ability to communicate effectively in English (speaking, writing and reading) to perform all essential job functions
Preferred
Demonstrated experience in financial and strategic planning within higher education
Expertise in fund accounting, financial reporting, and GASB standards
Experience managing financial operations for colleges, universities, or other complex non-profit organizations
Experience leading or supporting the implementation of a new ERP system
Possession of a professional accounting certification, such as CGMA or CMA
Benefits
75% Employer-Paid Health Insurance
Flexible Spending Accounts
Life Insurance
Long Term Disability
State Pension Retirement Plan
Optional Retirement Savings Plans
Tuition Credit (Employee, Spouse, & Dependents)
Twelve (12) paid holidays
Paid personal, vacation, and sick time
And More!
Company
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
UMass Dartmouth is a national research university committed to academic excellence.