"Controller"

Controller

Finance Office

Description

JOB SUMMARY: The Controller manages the Finance office and reports to the Vice President of Finance, Treasurer and CFO. The position is responsible for all month-end and year-end accounting activities, including the preparation of the monthly financial statements and supporting documentation. The Controller works closely with the College's external auditors to facilitate the annual financial audit, tax return preparation and the related reports. The position is responsible for ensuring accurate accounting and reporting of fixed assets, including providing guidance, tracking and reporting on capital projects. The Controller oversees the accounting and reporting of endowments and investment, supports budget and forecast creation by providing insight into the actual financial activity and is responsible for the recruitment, retention and management of all department staff.

Employment Type: Full-time (1.0 FTE), Exempt (Salaried), Benefits-Eligible

Salary Range: $115,000 - $150,000 annually

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Anticipated start date = January 2026 or earlier.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide leadership for all Finance Office functions, including general accounting, payroll, fixed assets, endowment tracking, accounts payable, and tax return preparation.
• Maintain the integrity of the general ledger and chart of accounts; deliver timely and accurate financial reporting to department heads, senior leadership, the Audit Committee, and external stakeholders, in compliance with GAAP.
• Ensure timely preparation and submission of government filings, including IRS Forms 990 and 990T, indirect cost recovery calculations, monthly sales tax returns, annual 1099 forms, and other regulatory reports.
• Oversee the accuracy and reporting of investment and restricted fund activity. Lead the year-end financial and government audit processes; serve as the primary liaison with external auditors managing the follow-up and corrective actions.
• Evaluate and enforce effective internal controls and financial procedures to mitigate risk and ensure compliance.
• Monitor cash flow ensuring adequate reserves and the optimal investment of idle funds.
• Serve as a strategic financial advisor and active member on campus committees, task forces, and ad hoc working groups.
• Ensure compliance with IRS regulations, reporting and institutional financial policies.
• Foster a culture of excellent customer service and collaboration between the Finance Office and departments across campus.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Prerequisites

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's Degree in accounting, CPA designation
• 7-10 years of progressive and relevant experience
• Proven experience as controller or similar leadership position
• Sound knowledge of GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) and accounting laws and regulations
• Proven leadership in managing automated accounting systems and a strong understanding of current accounting and financial reporting standards (in higher education preferred)
• Demonstrated commitment to organizational success, with advanced proficiency in spreadsheets and database applications
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Masters in Accounting, Finance or Business Administration
• Management experience in higher education or public accounting
• Experience in generating and filing accurate 990 and 990T tax returns

Application Procedures: To apply for this position, please continue the process on our website, www.gustavus.edu/humanresources/employment to complete the online application, submit your resume, and any supporting documents.

Gustavus offers competitive and comprehensive benefits which include:

• Medical insurance (which includes access to Nice Healthcare) as well as dental, vision, and life insurance
• Workplace accommodations for physical or mental health concerns
• Onsite health services
• Free parking, exercise classes, and use of library and athletic facilities
• Paid parental leave
• Employer contribution to retirement savings plan (after one year of employment)
• Tuition scholarships for dependents
• Tuition benefit plan for employees and spouse
• 13 paid Holidays + generous PTO plan

Contact

Curt Kowaleski | curtk@gustavus.edu | 507-933-7499

To apply, visit https://gustavus.edu/employment/job/2340