ORGANIZATION
Fitchburg State University is a public comprehensive institution with a strong and proud tradition of excellence in teaching, scholarship and public service. The university offers more than 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the arts, humanities, sciences, social sciences and professional fields to more than 7,000 students annually.
Founded as a teachers college in 1894, Fitchburg State has developed into a highly-regarded institution that blends liberal arts and sciences and professional programs within a small college environment and recently updated facilities. The university prepares students to lead, serve and succeed by fostering lifelong learning and civic and global responsibility. A Fitchburg State education extends beyond the classroom to include residential, professional, and co-curricular opportunities, with particular emphasis on internships. As a community resource the university provides leadership and support for the economic, environmental, social and cultural needs of North Central Massachusetts and beyond.
POSITION
Reporting to the Vice President for Finance and Administration, the Comptroller is responsible for providing the leadership and guidance for the financial accounting operations of the University and affiliates, to include Accounting, Accounts Payable, and Grants. The Comptroller works closely and in conjunction with the Assistant Vice President for Finance and Administration in formulating and administering policy and procedures pertaining to all fiscal matters of the University and affiliates; and provides support for University programs and the mission of the University.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Exercises supervision of Accounting professional, paraprofessional, and classified staff, as well as student employees assigned to the department.
Provide leadership and management oversight for the following functions: accounting, grants accounting, sponsored programs, and accounts payable and fixed assets for the University and its affiliates.
Monitor cash flow of the University and affiliates to ensure availability of funds necessary for daily operations. Review cash flow reports and compile cash flow projection reports for review by the Vice President for Finance and Administration, President, and/or Board of Trustees.
Monitor and approve all warrants including University and affiliates, Student Refund, Nursing, Perkins, and ACH.
Manage operating cash, short-term investments, and banking relationships of the University and affiliates.
Provide modeling and analysis of University operations.
Manage debt, including bonds, letters of credit, lines of credit, leases, and bond covenants of the University and affiliates. Regularly interact with lenders, creditors, and government agencies.
Compile and administer monthly investment summary.
Responsible for the review of all financial statements, including quarterly financial statements, the annual audit, A-133, NCAA, 990, 990T, etc.
Ensure compliance with standards and best practices issued by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB), Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB), American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, National Association of College and University Business Officers, Internal Revenue Service, Department of Education, and other agencies. Maintain current knowledge of all accounting issues affecting higher education.
Monitor and collaborate with Financial Aid office in the financial administration and compliance of programs at the University which include Perkins and Stafford loans, SEOG, Pell, and Work-Study
Provide oversight of pre- and post-award sponsored programs administration and monitoring of grant award, grant draw-downs and other grant reporting and reconciliation functions. Ensure compliance with terms and conditions of awarded grants.
Make presentations to President’s Cabinet and/or Board of Trustees as directed by VP for Finance and/or President, including Finance, Investment, and Audit Committees.
Coordinate with the Development Office regarding accounting for all gifts including stock, real property, annuities, and pledges receivable.
Develop, promote, and follow sound fiscal practices, procedures, and internal controls in the conduct of the business and financial affairs of the University and affiliates. Monitor and evaluate financial programs on an ongoing basis to ensure their effectiveness.
Develop and maintain excellent working relationships with all departments through understanding of their purpose and objective; provide departments with guidance about financial matters to ensure needs are met in a timely and customer-focused manner.
Provide supervision, coaching and training to Accounting staff, including evaluation of performance related to strategic goals. Promote accountability and stewardship of University funds.
QUALIFICATIONS
Master’s degree required and CPA preferred.
At least 10 years of progressively increasing accounting experience in an educational environment, preferably public higher education or Commonwealth government
A thorough knowledge of and experience in accounting methodology, business procedures, financial spreadsheets, and computerized financial data base management is required.
Exceptional communication, organizational, managerial, team-building, and leadership skills
In-depth knowledge of GAAP for Colleges and Universities and possess comprehensive knowledge of financial management, accounting, auditing, and grant management functions.
Extensive knowledge of Banner finance module and Microsoft Software.
Ability to analyze complex financial information and operational systems.
Highly proficient oral and written communication skills.
Ability to work with a diverse constituency throughout the campus and in the external community.
Excellent leadership and team-building skills and an ability to promote collaboration, teamwork, and partnerships with internal and external constituents.
Possess effective analytical and problem-solving skills.
Very detailed and results oriented with an ability to set priorities, multi-task, and meet deadlines.
HOW TO APPLY
Interested applicants should review the website, www.fitchburgstate.edu, and email a resume AND cover letter to msalkin@amsolutions.net. Be sure to put Fitchburg Comptroller in subject line and tell us how your learned of this opportunity. Fitchburg State University is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer committed to excellence through diversity. Applications from members of underrepresented groups are encouraged.
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