Controller

Position Title: Controller

Department: Business Office

Location: Onsite

Reports To: Chief Operating Officer

Iliff School of Theology is a progressive, graduate theological school located in Denver, Colorado. Founded in 1892, Iliff is committed to academic excellence, social justice, and interreligious engagement. The institution prepares leaders for religious, academic, and community contexts through innovative programs and a strong emphasis on critical inquiry, ethical leadership, and transformative education.

Iliff fosters a collaborative and mission-driven environment where staff and faculty contribute to a shared commitment to equity, inclusion, and the public good.

Iliff School of Theology seeks a hands-on Controller to oversee day-to-day accounting operations and support the institution’s financial integrity and sustainability. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer and working in close collaboration with financial leadership, the Controller plays a key role in financial reporting, compliance, internal controls, and operational effectiveness.

This is an excellent opportunity for a technically strong and collaborative finance professional who thrives in a mission-driven, higher education environment.

Key Responsibilities

The Controller will be responsible for leading core accounting operations and ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant financial management. Key areas of responsibility include:

• Oversight of general accounting functions, including general ledger, payables/receivables, payroll coordination, and fund accounting.
• Ownership of the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes and preparation of financial statements.
• Financial reporting and analysis for senior leadership and the Board of Trustees.
• Support of budgeting, forecasting, and institutional financial planning.
• Coordination of the annual audit and ongoing regulatory compliance (including IRS and grant-related requirements).
• Oversight of restricted funds, endowments, and donor compliance.
• Strengthening internal controls and identifying process improvements.
• Supervision and development of accounting staff.
• Cross-functional collaboration with departments across the institution.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in nonprofit or higher education.
• Active Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license required.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit accounting principles, including fund and grant accounting.
• MBA preferred.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong financial systems and reporting expertise.
• Ability to analyze complex financial data and communicate clearly to non-financial stakeholders.
• High level of accuracy, organization, and attention to detail.
• Sound judgment, integrity, and confidentiality.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Collaborative and service-oriented approach.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary Range: $100,000 – $120,000 annually

Iliff School of Theology offers a competitive benefits package, which may include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan options
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities

Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and internal equity.

Work Environment

This is an onsite position located in Denver, Colorado.