"Assistant Controller - Financial Services"

Job Details

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Position Title: Assistant Controller - Financial Services

Job Category: Academic Staff

Employment Type: Regular

Job Profile: Asst Controller (Inst) (B)

Job Duties:

The Assistant Controller plays a key role in ensuring the financial integrity, accountability, and compliance of the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater. This position oversees day-to-day accounting operations, supervises staff, and ensures accurate and timely financial reporting in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) standards, and applicable federal, state, system, and institutional regulations. While the role operates under general supervision, the Assistant Controller is expected to exercise increasing independence as knowledge of UW System operations and processes develops.

Responsibilities:

A. Accounting & Financial Operations

• Direct daily accounting functions, including general ledger, accounts payable, cash management, and grant accounting
• Ensure timely and accurate month-end and year-end close processes in Workday
• Perform integrity checks of general ledger transactions and reports; resolve discrepancies promptly
• Monitor internal controls to safeguard university assets and ensure compliance with GAAP, GASB, state, and federal regulations.
• Review journal entries, reconciliations, and financial reports prepared by staff
• Develop and maintain written policies and procedures related to general ledger functions

B. Leadership & Collaboration

• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate accounting and accounts payable staff, fostering professional growth and high performance
• Serve as a subject matter expert for Workday Financials
• Partner with UW System Administration and WEST functional leads on system upgrades, new functionality, and process improvements
• Provide training and guidance to staff and campus users on Workday accounting and reporting tools
• Collaborate with the Controller, Budget Office, Procurement, Payroll, and other departments to ensure alignment of financial operations
• Serve as a trusted resource for academic and administrative units on financial policies and procedures
• Promote a culture of customer service, efficiency, and continuous improvement

C. Financial Reporting & Compliance

• Prepare annual campus GAAP reports for inclusion in the UW System Annual Financial Report
• Prepare monthly sales tax reports
• Monitor debt service schedules for campus bond issues
• Oversee the Capital Inventory/Asset Management system for GAAP reporting, annual equipment inventories, and related capital tracking reports
• Ensure compliance with federal and state requirements related to financial aid, grants, and sponsored research
• Oversee the drawdown of federal funds and related ledger entries.
• Supervise the preparation of accounting and program reports for federal programs
• Contribute to fiscal policy development and ensure consistent application of university financial policies

D. Support to the Controller

• Contribute to the preparation of content and deliverables for monthly Campus Business Representative meetings and related communications
• Identify opportunities to automate processes, increasing efficiency, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness in university accounting operations
• Complete special projects and tasks as assigned by the Controller or other Senior Leadership

Key Job Responsibilities:

• Coordinates and assists with the preparation of regulatory reporting including annual and periodic program review audits
• Develops and documents business processes and accounting policies to maintain and strengthen internal controls; ensures quality control over financial transactions and financial reporting
• Manages and complies with local, state, and federal government reporting requirements and tax filings
• Assist with management of all accounting operations including Billing, A/R, A/P; supervises accounts receivable, accounts payable and general accounting operations and departments
• Serves as a liaison to external auditors
• Coordinates and assists with the preparation of the budget and financial forecasts and report variances

Department: Financial Services

Compensation: Well-qualified candidates can expect a starting annual salary within a range of $83,000 – $89,000. UW System employees receive an excellent benefit package.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressively responsible accounting experience
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and GASB accounting standards
• Experience with financial reporting, audits, and internal controls
• Supervisory experience
• Proficiency with Workday Financials or comparable ERP systems

Preferred Qualifications:

• CPA or master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration
• Experience in higher education or public sector accounting
• Demonstrated success implementing process improvements in financial systems
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across diverse stakeholders
• Advanced knowledge and experience with Workday

Competencies:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Clear, effective communication skills, both written and verbal

How to Apply: Applications received by November 9, 2025 are ensured full consideration.