Associate Vice President and University Controller

About Us

Since 1906, the University of West Georgia (UWG) has been home to those who seek a transformative college experience. UWG is a leading residential, doctoral comprehensive university that offers a broad undergraduate and graduate curriculum based on a liberal arts foundation. Nestled among the pines on a picturesque 645 acres is the University of West Georgia- a hidden gem approximately 40 miles west of Atlanta. Serving approximately 14,400+ students, and offering more than 100 programs, UWG is committed to advancing innovative academic programs and a student-centered business model. Perennially ranked by U.S. News & World Report, the Princeton Review, and Colleges of Distinction as a top national university, West Georgia offers 86 fields of study, including business, computing, nursing, education, STEM, communication and digital media, social sciences, and the fine and performing arts. UWG generates a regional economic impact of more than $650 million annually and provides a safe, quality, and affordable university experience that connects students to post-graduate career and leadership opportunities. UWG has been recognized by the Carnegie Foundation for its institutional commitment to community engagement through teaching, research and creative activities, and public service. West Georgia is one of only 119 U.S. colleges and universities to receive the elective classification in 2020 and is among only 359 institutions nationally. Dedicated to creating a first-choice university for students, alumni, employees, and communities, UWG seeks employees who will advance and support the University's mission of fulfilling the talent needs of western Georgia and the Atlanta metropolitan area, while contributing to the social, cultural, and economic development of the region and state. The University of West Georgia offers a comprehensive total rewards package designed to support faculty and staff across multiple dimensions; health, wellness, financial security, and professional growth. Employees working at least 30 hours per week gain access to a range of health plans, including medical, dental, and vision, wellness programs, and robust retirement options through Georgia Teachers Retirement System (TRS), Optional Retirement Program, and voluntary 403(b) and 457(b) plans. Employees are granted 13 paid holidays and paid time off accruals and are eligible to participate in the University System of Georgia's Tuition Assistance Program. Fringe benefits include a variety of resources focused on employee physical, mental, financial, and social well-being through Acentra Employee Assistance Program in addition to personal financial advising with Captrust. UWG also offers exclusive discounts and special offers on entertainment, travel, and other products and services through the Perks at Work program, free access to the university recreation facility, discounted campus dining options, and more! Living in Carrollton, "The City of Dreams," offers the advantages of city life with a small-town vibe. This progressive community with Southern flair offers plenty of shopping, restaurants, nightlife opportunities, and cultural events. Named a City of Excellence in Georgia and listed as one of the 50 Best Small Southern Towns, Carrollton is the cultural, educational, health care, and commercial center for the west Georgia region. At the heart of Carrollton is its historic downtown and Adamson Square lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants. Each season offers unique local events and opportunities for year-round recreation. Outdoor activities abound through award-winning spaces, including an 18-mile paved walking and biking Greenbelt trail that encircles the city and passes through the UWG campus. The city embraces the University's students, faculty, and staff, and welcomes the diversity UWG brings to the community. Invested in education with highly rated city and county K-12 systems, both city and county public school graduation rates are 90% and above and rank among the top in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

Job Summary

The Associate Vice President and University Controller will oversee all accounting, financial reporting, and compliance operations of the university, ensuring fiscal integrity and adherence to University System of Georgia (USG) and state audit requirements. It includes oversight of Financial Reporting and Accounting, including public/private venture reporting and capital asset management, as well as Purchasing and Payables, Travel Services, Procurement, and the Office of Student Accounts. The role will have 3 to 5 direct reports. Reporting to the Vice President for Business and Finance, the University Controller provides strategic direction for financial management, internal controls, external audits, and fiscal policy implementation. The ideal candidate will be a collaborative leader with deep technical expertise in public-sector fund accounting, GASB reporting, and financial systems, along with a strong commitment to service excellence and UWG's mission of transforming lives through education.

Responsibilities

1. Oversee the technical accounting and reporting areas to ensure timely, accurate reporting through directing the preparation and delivery of all financial reporting requirements to both internal and external agencies, the University System of Georgia (USG), and University of West Georgia (UWG). · Manage the University's operating cash and short-term investments, working closely with the Chief Business Officer to develop and enhance banking relationships and improve cash flows and related interest income. Monitor, report, and support the University and its foundations on the use of private/public ventures to elevate the student experience. Ensure processes are followed that result in timely balance sheet reconciliations and clearing of reconciling items.
2. Oversee the shared service center areas to ensure timely reporting, appropriate cost-benefit internal controls, relevant key performance indicators and tracking, efficient value-added services, contemporary processes, and a strong client-focused approach. Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, coordination of internal/external auditing activities, and implementation and maintenance of internal controls for adherence. Serve as primary contact for internal and external auditors. Ensure students have contemporary, efficient, and timely processes to effectively manage their student accounts. Coordinate with USG Shared Service Center as needed to deliver on campus needs balanced with USG needs for those processes managed centrally.
3. Provide overall leadership, supervision, and coaching to direct reports in areas of responsibility, including the evaluation of performance in relation to strategic goals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development. ·Develop and maintain excellent working relationships with all departments through gaining an understanding of their purpose and objectives.
4. Lead and/or support episodic strategic projects as needed.

Required Qualifications

Educational Requirements

Master's Degree

Required Experience

Master's Degree from an accredited college or university in accounting or related field, OR bachelor's degree with equivalent years of technical accounting experience. 7-10 years of progressively responsible leadership experience in accounting or financial services, including supervisory experience in a highly regulated environment. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or Chartered Accountant (CA) is required.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred Educational Qualifications

Master’s

Preferred Experience

Minimum 10 or more years' experience leading engaged, diverse, and high-performing teams in public sector or agency or higher education. Experience in the University System of Georgia or comparable public higher education system. Familiarity with Peoplesoft, Workday, or similar ERP systems.

Proposed Salary

$155,000 to $180,000 annually. Paid on a monthly basis. Commensurate with experience.

ABILITIES

Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions · Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and work collaboratively in team environments Excellent communication skills; Ability to speak and write effectively and design quality presentations.

KNOWLEDGE

Thorough understanding of GAAP and relevant FASB/GAS pronouncements. Knowledge and understanding of university operations and board governance.

SKILLS

Visionary leader able to manage stakeholder engagement. Organizational capacity building with proven effectiveness and expertise in fiscal management and administration and operational strategies. Excellent communication skills. Ability to speak and write effectively and design quality presentations

Office Environment - Work normally performed in a typical interior work environment.