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Controller

Gustavus Adolphus College, Saint Peter, MN, United States


Controller
Finance

Job Summary
The Controller manages the Finance office and reports to the Vice President of Finance, Treasurer and CFO. The position is responsible for all month-end and year-end accounting activities, including the preparation of the monthly financial statements and supporting documentation. The Controller works closely with the College's external auditors to facilitate the annual financial audit, tax return preparation and the related reports. The position is responsible for ensuring accurate accounting and reporting of fixed assets, including providing guidance, tracking and reporting on capital projects. The Controller oversees the accounting and reporting of endowments and investment, supports budget and forecast creation by providing insight into the actual financial activity and is responsible for the recruitment, retention and management of all department staff.

Employment Type: Full-time (1.0 FTE), Exempt (Salaried), Benefits- Eligible

Salary Range: $120,00-$135,000

Main Responsibilities

Provide leadership for all Finance Office functions, including general accounting, payroll, fixed assets, endowment tracking, accounts payable, and tax return preparation.

Maintain the integrity of the general ledger and chart of accounts; deliver timely and accurate financial reporting to department heads, senior leadership, the Audit Committee, and external stakeholders, in compliance with GAAP.

Ensure timely preparation and submission of government filings, including IRS Forms 990 and 990T, indirect cost recovery calculations, monthly sales tax returns, annual 1099 forms, and other regulatory reports.

Oversee the accuracy and reporting of investment and restricted fund activity. Lead the year-end financial and government audit processes; serve as the primary liaison with external auditors managing the follow-up and corrective actions.

Evaluate and enforce effective internal controls and financial procedures to mitigate risk and ensure compliance.

Monitor cash flow ensuring adequate reserves and the optimal investment of idle funds.

Serve as a strategic financial advisor and active member on campus committees, task forces, and ad hoc working groups.

Ensure compliance with IRS regulations, reporting and institutional financial policies.

Foster a culture of excellent customer service and collaboration between the Finance Office and departments across campus.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in accounting, CPA designation

7-10 years of progressive and relevant experience

Proven experience as controller or similar leadership positions

Sound knowledge of GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) and accounting laws and regulations

Proven leadership in managing automated accounting systems and a strong understanding of current accounting and financial reporting standards (in higher education preferred)

Demonstrated commitment to organizational success, with advanced proficiency in spreadsheets and database applications

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

Masters in Accounting, Finance or Business Administration

Management experience in higher education or public accounting

Experience in generating and filing accurate 990 and 990T tax returns

Benefits

Medical insurance (which includes access to Nice Healthcare) as well as dental, vision, and life insurance

Workplace accommodations for physical or mental health concerns

Onsite health services

Free parking, exercise classes, and use of library and athletic facilities

Paid parental leave

Employer contribution to retirement savings plan (after one year of employment)

Tuition scholarships for dependents

Tuition benefit plan for employees and spouse

13 paid Holidays + generous PTO plan

Gustavus Adolphus College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status in its education or employment programs or activities.

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