University Controller

at  California State University

Job no: 540682
Work type: Management (MPP)
Location: Long Beach
Categories: MPP, Administrative, At-Will, Full Time

JOB SUMMARY

Under the general direction of the AVP for Financial Management, the position is responsible for the management of the University Controller’s Office which includes General Accounting, Financial Reporting and Tax, and Accounts Payable for three business units: the Campus, the Research Foundation, and the 49ER Foundation. The position is primarily responsible for the accuracy of all University and Foundation financial records, the timeliness of financial transactions, response to financial audits, and the preparation of financial reports. In addition, the position works with the Director of CMS Finance and the Director of Financial Management Information Systems in matters relating to the accounting and finance functional areas.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Ability to work effectively and build strong relationships internally and externally with a broad range of individuals to bring the university community together around shared goals. Thorough knowledge of financial and program auditing practices and procedures and internal control policies and procedures. Proven track record in grants management as it relates to compliance and reporting of government, corporate, and foundation grants. Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply GASB, GAAP, and FASB standards, pronouncements, principles, and policies. Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite including Excel and Word. Thorough knowledge of financial record-keeping methods, sound accounting controls, business processes, policies, and procedures (higher education experience preferred).
Ability to interpret and apply the results of financial analyses and projections to policies and rules, and experience with the maintenance of the chart of accounts. Ability to review financial documents for accuracy, completeness, validity, and adherence to standards. Thorough knowledge of correct English, grammar, spelling, and punctuation, in addition to excellent written and verbal communication skills for communication with various levels of customers (students, faculty/staff, and vendors), and for the preparation of narratives and discussion and analysis included with financial statements. Knowledge of PeopleSoft Finance Module preferred.
Ability to communicate with an ethnically and culturally diverse campus community. Ability to follow all university policies, procedures, and guidelines including but not limited to safety, civility, information security, and non-discrimination policies and procedures. Ability to contribute to a positive university experience for each and every student and assist in achieving the university’s commitment to a “vision of excellence.”

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field and a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible finance experience, including management required. CPA and/or MBA in Accounting strongly preferred. Experience with higher education and endowment accounting strongly preferred.

PHYSICAL SUMMARY

Sedentary work - Involves mainly sitting. Walking and standing are minimal. Lifting is limited to lightweight objects. (10 pounds or less).

• Management of the University Controller’s Office which includes General Accounting, Financial Reporting and Tax, and Accounts Payable for three business units: the Campus, the Research Foundation, and the 49ER Foundation.
• Development, review, and implementation of fiscal policies and procedures. Reviews changes in federal, state and/or endowment regulations to determine their impact on colleges and universities. Interprets and applies a variety of complex written policies and procedures in circumstances not clearly described by available guidelines.
• Overall responsibility for financial services to the campus community. Member of the system-wide Financial Standards Advisory Committee (FSAC). Reviews current accounting standards pronouncements, GASB Exposure Drafts, IRS rulings, federal and state laws, regulations, and rulings etc.
• General support to senior management and other miscellaneous duties as assigned. Provides advice to senior management with respect to fiscal matters within area of responsibility. In coordination with other managers, ensures that special projects and senior management initiatives are properly addressed.