University Controller
Overview
The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) invites applications for the position of Controller. This is an exceptional opportunity for a highly qualified and experienced financial professional to provide strategic leadership and oversight of the University’s accounting operations. Reporting directly to the Interim Chief Financial Officer, the Controller is responsible for the comprehensive management of accounting, accounts payable, and financial reporting functions for both UAH and the UAH Foundation. The successful candidate will ensure the integrity and accuracy of financial operations, promote a strong culture of compliance and accountability, and lead ongoing enhancements to financial systems, processes, and internal controls in support of the University’s mission and strategic goals.
Key Responsibilities Include
Leadership
• Develops, recommends, and implements appropriate accounting and financial policies and procedures, processes, and systems.
• Provides strategic and administrative leadership for the functional financial units, including general accounting, accounts payable, UAH Foundation accounting, and financial reporting.
• Provides leadership for university-wide accounting operations, including revenues, expenses, property, cash flows, and assets and liabilities.
• Provides leadership and guidance for accounting staff to ensure the highest standards of fiscal integrity and fiscal responsibility and accountability, excellent stewardship of University and UAH Foundation resources, and a collaborative team environment.
Accounting
• Serves as the University's principal accounting officer.
• Ensures the accurate and timely processing of all accounting and accounting-related transactions.
• Maintain and oversee the university’s chart of accounts, ensuring it is accurately structured and updated to reflect the institution's financial activities.
• Implement and enforce appropriate access controls to financial systems, safeguarding sensitive financial data and ensuring that only authorized personnel can make modifications.
• Maintains accountability for the overall accuracy, reliability, analysis, and evaluation of all financial data of UAH and the UAH Foundation.
• Establishes and maintains systematic internal controls that provide for monitoring and safeguarding University and UAH Foundation assets.
• Manages the preparation and submission of applicable tax filings.
Financial Reporting
• Respond to requests from the University of Alabama System for various routine and ad hoc reports.
• Provides accurate and timely reports as needed to support the President, Chief Financial Officer, and the executive leadership team in decision-making and analysis.
• Provides oversight and management of reporting to external agencies.
• Prepares the annual audited financial reports for both UAH and UAH Foundation.
Compliance and Audit
• Ensures compliance with applicable financial regulations as well as the University of Alabama System financial policies and procedures.
• Serves as the primary liaison of contact with NASA and other federal agencies.
• Serves as the primary liaison with independent auditors, coordinates the annual financial audits, and coordinates preparation of reports and schedules required for each audit.
• Coordinates audits by the State Examiners of Public Accounts and other state agencies.
• Interprets complex financial policies, laws, and regulations and advises executive leadership and the campus community as needed to ensure compliance.
• Prevents, detects, and promptly corrects fraudulent or improper financial activities. Reports such activities, should they occur, to appropriate authorities.
Minimum Requirements
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• Active CPA License
• Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible leadership in relevant financial areas Ability to communicate complex concepts and ideas
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office, including demonstrated proficiency with Excel
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with a wide variety of individuals and organizations
• Demonstrated knowledge of and expertise in GAAP, GASB, and FASB requirements, and demonstrated knowledge of OMB A-133.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail, with the ability to interpret complex financial data and communicate insights effectively to diverse audiences
• U.S. Citizenship is required
Preferred/Desired Qualifications
• Master's degree in Accounting, Finance or a related field
• Experience in accounting and finance at a college or university strongly desired
The approximate starting salary for this position is $135,000 - $175,000 with an excellent benefits package.
To ensure full consideration, qualified applicants should apply online for the position of Controller at:
*A full and thorough confidential review of applicants will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. An Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled