Accountant III

University of Wisconsin Stout•Madison, WI

1d•$79,000 - $89,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Financial Services unit performs the controllership function for the Universities of Wisconsin. This position assists the UW System Controller in the areas of statewide reporting, financial management and budget control of the University’s financial resources. This includes monitoring University budgets and allotments. This section also performs the annual reconciliation and certification of University financial transactions and advises institution financial managers on a wide variety of policy-related issues. The performance in this position requires demonstrated ability to apply Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) reporting standards, familiarity with University of Wisconsin and State of Wisconsin fiscal rules, policies and procedures and participation in UW System financial decision making. Work Location: The office location is located at 780 Regent Street, Madison, WI. An in-office requirement is expected three (3) days per week and two days may be worked off-site/remote. Telecommuting agreements are subject to change at any time.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business, or related field from an accredited institution
Five or more years of experience in accounting or related role
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively across an organization at all levels.
Thorough understanding of generally accepted accounting principles
Knowledge of internal controls, business ethics, and financial platforms and practices

Nice To Haves

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Experience working with the UW System or State
Experience working within Higher Education
Proficiency with advanced Excel functions and ability to create complex spreadsheets and reports

Responsibilities

UW System Reporting and Analysis Responsible for planning: operational improvements, responses to financial reporting changes, professional development of staff and cross‐training, and collaboration with other units to provide better services.
Develops policies and procedures for accounting operations and transaction processing and reporting for compliance with special reporting requirements.
Applies industry and professional standards, interprets University policy and procedure, federal or state laws, and other regulations, and recommends accounting policy.
Designs new accounting policy and procedures required by system implementations, including internal controls.
Develops and prepares financial reports and supporting schedules for institutions and management for distribution to the Board of Regents and other interested parties.
Works with the Controller’s group made up of representatives from all institutions, in areas of financial analysis, compliance and other accounting related developments.
Financial Accounting and Reconciliation Lead and execute the month-end and year-end closing process for UW and STAR.
Develop, manage, monitor and reconcile the UW System's accounting records to those of the State Department of Administration on a monthly basis, as well as, at year-end and continually monitor for potential coding/interface problems and initiate entries to correct the problems identified.
Maintain STAR for the UW by calculating and submitting allotment adjustments at the state level, as appropriate. This function sometimes requires dealing with DOA's Executive Budget Office and/or State Controller's Office.
Performs complex accounting and auditing reconciliations, journal entries, schedules, and reports
Serves as subject matter expert to leadership and institutional stakeholders regarding accounting and financial operations, policies, and procedures
Develops and facilitates trainings and provides financial guidance to management and staff
Budget Control and Accounting Functions of the Universities of Wisconsin Monitor and reconcile allotment authority from the UW System with the State Department of Administration (DOA) Chapter 20 records for a multitude of appropriations with many funding sources (i.e., GPR, SEG, PR-S, PR-F, PR, Annual, Continuing, Sum Sufficient). Identify and explain variances
Interpret, train, and consult institution personnel engaged in the maintenance of the institutional budget control function relative to budget programs, rules, funding restrictions, reconciling issues and analysis.
Analyze and monitor institution and systemwide budgets throughout the fiscal year, advising institutions to maximize use of funding and minimize lapsing in accordance with legislative intent and Board of Regents policy.
Analyze and interpret the operating budget to determine centrally held funding for institutional distribution. Serve as a liaison with the UWSA Budget Office to ascertain the overall annual budget plan and funding intent.
Help develop UW System financial policies and procedures.
Assist Institution and System personnel in interpreting and implementing federal, state and UW System financial policies and procedures.
Miscellaneous Activities Coordinate and provide System Access to various software systems
Provide backup coverage for staff
Perform other special projects as assigned