"Controller"

Position Summary

The Controller is a senior leader in the College’s Finance organization, responsible for the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of all accounting, financial reporting, and budgeting activities. This role oversees the day-to-day operations of the Controller’s Office—including general accounting, accounts payable, grants accounting, fixed assets, capital projects, endowment accounting, and financial compliance, as well as, the development and management of the College’s operating and capital budgets.

The Controller ensures that financial operations comply with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), federal and state regulations, and the College’s internal policies. They serve as the primary liaison with external auditors, coordinate the annual financial audit, and lead the preparation of financial statements, reports, and analyses that inform strategic decision-making. This position requires a collaborative leader with strong technical expertise, exceptional attention to detail, and the ability to manage both operational and strategic financial functions.

Key Responsibilities

Accounting, Financial Management, and Reporting

• Oversee all accounting functions, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance with GAAP and applicable regulations.
• Prepare timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Manage the year-end close process and coordinate the annual external audit.
• Maintain the College’s chart of accounts and ensure proper internal controls over financial transactions.
• Oversee accounting for endowments, restricted funds, capital projects, debt, and grants.

Budget Development and Management

• Direct the preparation of the College’s annual operating and capital budgets.
• Provide leadership in multi-year financial forecasting and scenario analysis.
• Monitor budget-to-actual performance, prepare variance analyses, and recommend corrective actions when needed.
• Partner with senior leadership and department heads to align resource allocation with strategic priorities.

Compliance and Audit

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including IRS, U.S. Department of Education, and other funding agency requirements.
• Oversee the preparation of audit schedules and supporting documentation for external auditors.
• Monitor and implement changes in accounting standards, regulations, and best practices.

Operational Leadership

• Supervise and mentor the Controller’s Office staff, including accountants, budget staff, accounts payable, purchasing and contracts, and other finance personnel.
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of payroll, accounts payable, and other disbursements.
• Foster a culture of service, accuracy, and continuous improvement.

Systems and Process Improvement

• Oversee the operation, maintenance, and optimization of the College’s financial systems (currently Oracle Cloud ERP).
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and transparency.
• Collaborate with IT and other departments to ensure seamless integration of financial data and reporting.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.
• Higher education experience
• Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible accounting experience, including at least 3 years in a supervisory role.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, nonprofit accounting, and financial reporting standards.
• Demonstrated experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
• Proficiency with ERP systems (Oracle Cloud ERP experience preferred) and advanced Excel skills.
• Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to meet deadlines.

Preferred:

• Master’s degree in accounting, finance, or business administration.
• Knowledge of endowment, grants, and fund accounting.
• Familiarity with federal compliance requirements, including Uniform Guidance.

Competencies and Attributes

• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Collaborative leader who fosters teamwork and professional growth.
• High ethical standards and commitment to confidentiality.
• Ability to work effectively with senior leadership, faculty, staff, and external partners.
• Strong customer service orientation with the ability to work seamlessly across departments to achieve shared goals

About Ursinus College

Ursinus College is a selective, independent, co-educational, residential liberal arts college of approximately 1500 students located about 25 miles northwest of center city Philadelphia. With a diverse community of students, it is an expectation of all faculty to contribute to the inclusion, engagement, and success of all students.

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