Director of Business Office & Comptroller

The Director of Business Office & Comptroller serves as the chief accounting officer for the University, overseeing the integrity and accuracy of all financial records. This position plays a central role in ensuring compliance with accounting standards, regulatory requirements, and internal policies. Through leadership of the accounting team and collaboration with campus departments, the Comptroller supports the University’s mission by promoting responsible fiscal stewardship and transparent financial reporting.

Reporting to the Vice President for Business Affairs, the Comptroller manages accounting operations, financial reporting, and budget preparation while coordinating annual audits and ensuring sound internal controls. The position also oversees restricted funds, endowment activity, and grant accounting to ensure alignment with donor and regulatory expectations. In addition to operational management, the Comptroller provides analysis and insight that help guide institutional planning and strategic decisions.

The ideal candidate is a collaborative, detail-oriented professional with a deep understanding of accounting principles and a commitment to operational excellence. They are skilled at managing both people and processes, capable of turning complex data into meaningful financial insights, and driven by a strong sense of accountability. This position offers an opportunity to lead a high-performing accounting function and play a key role in advancing the University’s financial stability and long-term success.

Essential Functions

• Oversee all accounting operations, including the general ledger, financial reporting, and reconciliation processes.
• Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP and institutional policies.
• Develop and monitor internal controls to safeguard University assets and ensure financial integrity.
• Coordinate the annual financial and compliance audit, preparing supporting schedules and documentation.
• Lead the preparation of the annual operating and capital budgets in collaboration with the Vice President for Business Affairs.
• Supervise accounting staff and provide mentorship, training, and performance guidance.
• Maintain accounting for grants, restricted funds, and endowment activity, ensuring compliance with donor and regulatory requirements.
• Review and approve journal entries, reconciliations, and account adjustments prepared by staff.
• Oversee cash management, including bank reconciliations and cash flow monitoring.
• Support financial planning, forecasting, and institutional reporting.
• Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency, accuracy, and transparency within financial operations.

Required Skills, Knowledge, And Abilities

• Strong knowledge of GAAP, fund accounting, and financial reporting.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and managing budgets and audits.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in accounting software, ERP systems, and Microsoft Excel.
• Effective leadership and supervisory abilities.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to interpret complex financial data and present findings clearly.
• Commitment to accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Education And Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration (Master’s preferred).
• CPA certification strongly preferred.
• 5–7 years of progressively responsible accounting or financial management experience.
• Experience in higher education or nonprofit financial administration.
• Familiarity with federal compliance, grant accounting, and endowment reporting.
• Demonstrated success leading accounting operations or audit coordination.

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