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Claflin University · 10 hours ago

Assistant Vice President / Controller (52476)

Claflin University Main Campus - Orangeburg, SC 29115

Full-time

Onsite

Director/Executive

7+ years exp

Claflin University is seeking an Assistant Vice President / Controller to provide leadership and oversight of the University's accounting and financial operations. This role is responsible for ensuring the integrity of financial records, compliance with regulations, and managing various accounting functions within the institution.

EducationHigher EducationUniversities

Responsibilities

Provide leadership, direction, and oversight for accounting operations including General Ledger, Accounts Payable, Payroll, Grant Accounting, and Student Accounts (Bursar)

Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in accordance with GAAP and relevant federal and state regulations

Manage the annual audit process, serving as the primary liaison with external auditors

Maintain and enforce strong internal controls and policies to safeguard University assets

Oversee monthly, quarterly, and year-end closing processes

Prepare and analyze financial statements, reports, and forecasts for senior leadership and the Board of Trustees

Support the development and monitoring of the University's annual operating and capital budgets

Ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional financial aid and grant accounting requirements

Supervise, mentor, and evaluate accounting staff, promoting a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement

Serve as the lead administrator for the accounting and finance modules within the Jenzabar ERP system; collaborate with IT and other departments to enhance and optimize system usage

Lead efforts to improve efficiency through process redesign, automation, and technology integration

Collaborate with departments across campus to ensure clear communication and effective financial practices

Stay current with changes in higher education finance, accounting standards, and applicable laws/regulations

Qualification

Accounting principlesJenzabar ERPLeadership skillsFinancial reportingAnalytical skillsTeam-building skillsMicrosoft ExcelCommunication skillsOrganizational skillsDecision-making skills

Required

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required

Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive accounting/finance experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership or controller-level role, preferably in a higher education environment

Deep knowledge of accounting principles, practices, and regulations (including GAAP, GASB/FASB)

Strong leadership, managerial, and team-building skills

Excellent analytical, organizational, and decision-making abilities

Superior communication and interpersonal skills; able to effectively communicate complex financial information to non-financial audiences

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other financial reporting tools

Demonstrated ability to lead change and improve operational processes