"Assistant Vice-President of Business and Finance/Controller"

Job Details

Assistant Vice-President of Business and Finance/Controller

Hendrix College is seeking a full-time, 12-month Assistant Vice-President of Business and Finance/Controller. The salary range is $90,000-$115,000.

Position Summary

The Assistant Vice President of Finance and Operations/Controller (AVPFO/Controller) serves as a senior leader responsible for the financial integrity and operational efficiency of the college. This role oversees accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, procurement, and compliance functions, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and regulatory standards. The AVPFO/Controller provides strategic guidance, supervises key financial personnel, and supports the CFO in executing the college’s financial vision.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership and Strategy

• Lead the development and implementation of financial policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Create and maintain transparency with senior leadership regarding reporting, accounts, and cash management.
• Provide strategic financial analysis to support executive decision-making.
• Collaborate with senior leadership on budget planning, forecasting, and resource allocation.

Accounting and Reporting

• Oversee all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, endowment, and grants accounting.
• Generate timely and accurate preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and endowment reporting in accordance with GAAP and NACUBO standards.
• Maintain updated and accurate reporting for endowments throughout the fiscal year.
• Lead the annual external audit and preparation of all supporting schedules and footnotes.
• Maintain and improve internal controls and ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional policies.

Treasury and Cash Management

• Manage daily cash operations, banking relationships, and short-term investments to ensure liquidity. Ensure proper accounting, tracking, and cash use of multiple fund types.
• Support debt management activities, including bond compliance and reporting.
• Oversee student accounts receivable and collection policies.

Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional financial regulations.
• Manage financial risk through effective internal controls and oversight of contracts and procurement.
• Serve as a key contact for auditors, regulatory agencies, and financial consultants.

Budget Management

• In coordination with the Assistant Controller and VPFO/CFO, direct the annual budget development process in collaboration with academic and administrative units.
• Monitor budget performance and recommend adjustments to ensure fiscal responsibility.
• Provide training and support to departments on budgetary procedures and financial systems.

Leadership and Team Development

• Supervise and mentor the accounting and business office staff, fostering professional development and cross-training.
• Promote a culture of collaboration, customer service, and continuous improvement.
• Lead or support cross-campus committees related to finance, data governance, and operational efficiency.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field (CPA preferred).
• Minimum of 5 – 7 years of progressively responsible experience in financial management, preferably in higher education or nonprofit.
• Demonstrated experience in financial reporting and endowment funds management.

Skills and Competencies

• Deep understanding of GAAP, NACUBO, and higher-education financial reporting standards.
• Strong strategic planning, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with enterprise financial systems (e.g., Jenzabar or similar type of system) and advanced Excel/financial modeling capabilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to present complex information clearly.

Reporting Relationship

Reports to the Vice President for Finance and Operations/Chief Financial Officer. Works closely with senior leadership, Board committees, and department heads across the College.

Work Environment

Primarily office-based with occasional travel for conferences or training. May require extended hours during peak financial periods (e.g., budget season, audits).

Consideration of applicants will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Applications should include a letter of application and a resume with contact information for three professional references. Salary is commensurate with education and experience. Applications can be submitted at www.hendrix.edu/jobs. Questions about this position can be submitted to hr@hendrix.edu.