"University Controller"

University Controller

Company:

Bethel University - TN

Job Location:

Category: Other Executive

Type: Full-Time

Reports to: University President

Purpose of Position and Scope of Responsibility:

The University Controller serves as the chief accounting officer for the institution, providing strategic leadership and hands-on management of all accounting, financial reporting, and internal control functions. This position ensures the integrity of the University’s financial data, compliance with applicable regulations, and support for informed decision-making across the institution.

In addition to traditional controller responsibilities, the University Controller will serve as the primary liaison between the Business & Finance Office and the University’s Facilities Management and Auxiliary Services units and will oversee the University’s risk management and insurance administration functions to safeguard institutional assets and operations.

Under the administrative direction of President

Responsible for all shifts, 7 days/week, 24 hours/day. Incumbents are subject to callback as required.

Principal Accountabilities/Responsibilities:

1. Financial Management & Accounting

• Oversee all general ledger functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and grants accounting.
• Prepare timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP and higher education reporting standards.
• Direct the annual financial audit process, coordinating with external auditors and internal stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as University policies and procedures.
• Manage cash flow forecasting, account reconciliations, and endowment/fund accounting.
• Develop, implement, and maintain robust internal controls to safeguard University assets.

1. Budgeting & Analysis

• Collaborate with department heads and senior leadership to develop and monitor operating and capital budgets.
• Provide variance analyses and financial projections to support decision-making.
• Support long-range financial planning, enrollment modeling, and scenario analysis.

1. Facilities Management & Auxiliary Services Liaison

• Serve as the primary financial and operational liaison to Facilities Management, ensuring capital projects and maintenance activities are aligned with approved budgets and timelines.
• Partner with Auxiliary Services (e.g., dining, bookstore, conference services, housing) to monitor financial performance, identify revenue opportunities, and manage cost controls.
• Facilitate communication between operations units including Information Technology and Human Resources, and senior leadership regarding project status, resource needs, and strategic initiatives.
• Assist in developing business plans for auxiliary enterprises and major facilities initiatives

1. Risk Management & Insurance Administration

• Oversee the University’s risk management program, identifying, evaluating, and mitigating potential risks to the institution.
• Administer all property, liability, and specialty insurance policies, ensuring adequate coverage and cost efficiency.
• Serve as primary contact with insurance brokers, carriers, and claims adjusters.
• Coordinate incident reporting and claims processing, maintaining appropriate records and ensuring timely resolution.
• Develop and promote risk awareness programs in collaboration with campus departments.
• Prepares other internal and external financial reports, such as, but not limited to IPEDS, EZ Audit, Annual Report, SACS Financial Indicator, FISAP.

1. Leadership & Collaboration

• Supervise accounting staff and provide mentoring, professional development, and performance feedback.
• Collaborate with Information Technology to ensure financial systems are secure, efficient, and meet institutional needs.
• Represents the University in professional organizations and at industry conferences as appropriate.

1. Performs related accountabilities/responsibilities as required or directed.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee.

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