Controller - University of Indianapolis

Job Description

Reporting directly to the Executive Vice President of Finance and Administration, the University Controller is responsible for overseeing accounts payable and receivable functions at the University of Indianapolis; ensuring the integrity of financial reporting including the annual audit; ensuring university compliance with applicable taxes and regulations; and providing oversight and direction to the student receivable office function. The Controller plays a critical role in safeguarding the university’s financial health by implementing sound accounting practices, internal controls, and strategic financial planning. This position provides leadership and direction to the accounting and student receivable teams while also working closely with the Executive Vice President of Finance and Administration to support institutional financial goals and objectives.

Responsibilities:
Financial Reporting & Compliance

• Oversee the preparation and accuracy of financial statements in accordance with GAAP, FASB, and other relevant accounting frameworks.
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local laws and regulations, including tax reporting and audits.
• Coordinate annual external audits and work with auditors to ensure timely and accurate completion of the audit process.
• Ensure proper accounting for restricted and unrestricted funds, grants, and donations, in compliance with donor restrictions and university policies.

Internal Controls & Risk Management

• Develop and enforce internal controls to safeguard university assets and prevent fraud or financial mismanagement.
• Ensure effective processes are in place for accounts payable, accounts receivable, and other critical financial functions.
• Monitor and assess financial risks, and recommend strategies to mitigate financial or operational risks.
• Oversee the university's cash management and investment practices.
• Oversee the implementation and operation of the university’s procure-to-pay system.

Leadership & Team Development

• Supervise and mentor the accounting and student receivable teams, providing guidance, performance feedback, and professional development opportunities.
• Foster a collaborative and efficient work environment.
• Coordinate and provide training to university staff on financial policies, procedures, and best practices for financial management.

Systems & Technology

• Lead the implementation and maintenance of financial systems and software that streamline financial operations and reporting.
• Stay current with emerging financial technologies, tools, and trends to improve efficiency and accuracy in financial operations.

Advisory & Strategic Support

• Serve as a key advisor to the Executive Vice President of Finance and Administration on financial matters.
• Provide analysis and recommendations on resource allocation and financial strategies.

• Work closely with academic and administrative departments to ensure alignment between financial operations and university objectives.

   

Qualifications:
Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• CPA preferred.

Experience

• At least 8 years of progressive experience in accounting or finance, with a minimum of 2 years in a managerial or leadership role.
• Experience in higher education or nonprofit financial management is highly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience with financial statement preparation and auditing.
• Proven track record of positively leading a team and fostering professional development.

Skills & Abilities

• In-depth knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting standards, and financial regulations, including those applicable to higher education.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial data and provide clear, actionable recommendations.
• Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and levels of the organization.
• Proficiency with financial management software (e.g., Banner), Excel, and other financial tools.

• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.

   

Working Conditions:

• This position requires occasional evening or weekend hours, particularly during peak financial periods (e.g., year-end closing).
• The role may involve occasional travel for conferences or training sessions.

Open until filled, but applications submitted by December 20, 2024 are encouraged.

Company Description

close-knit community of more than 700 faculty and staff supporting 5,600 undergraduate and graduate students on our main campus.  We offer an inclusive work environment where your individual contributions will be recognized and rewarded and the University’s motto, “Education for Service,” provides the foundation for all our work.  Situated on 65 acres in the University Heights neighborhood and just minutes from downtown Indianapolis, UIndy’s campus is close to all of the cultural, shopping, sports, and recreational amenities you’d expect in the 13th-largest city in the United States.  Want to cheer on your Hounds when they play their rivals in the Great Lakes Valley Conference?  UIndy employees and their families enjoy free admission to home sporting events, and many arts and cultural events on campus are free for employees as well.  The University is proud to offer a competitive total rewards package, including a generous time off policy, ensuring you can enjoy your time outside of work as you wish.

The University of Indianapolis is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, disability, citizenship status, military status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. The University of Indianapolis does not discriminate on the basis of sex in its educational programs and activities, including employment and admission as required by Title IX. 

Benefits

• Medical Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Tuition Discount
• Retirement Savings Plan - 403B
• Paid Vacation and Sick Time Accruals
• Paid Holiday time and additional University days off
• Employee Discounts & Services
• Free Parking
• Onsite Health & Wellness Center

For more information about the benefits of being a staff member at UIndy, visit our Benefits site.