Assistant/Associate Controller

Washington and Lee University•Lexington, VA

27d•Onsite

About The Position

Reporting to the Associate Treasurer and Controller, the Assistant/Associate Controller is responsible for overseeing the University’s accounting operations and maintaining the university’s financial records and accounting systems. The Assistant/Associate Controller supports accurate and timely financial reporting, compliance with regulatory requirements, and effective financial operations across the institution. The Assistant/Associate Controller oversees several core functions within the Business Office, including payroll, treasury, tax, general ledger, and financial business systems, and serves as a primary resource for departmental administrative staff. Washington and Lee University actively promotes a dynamic and welcoming environment that allows students and employees of multiple backgrounds and perspectives to learn, work, and thrive together. Successful candidates will contribute to that environment and exhibit potential for excellence in their areas of expertise.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or business administration required
Significant experience in accounting and financial reporting within a complex organization required
Strong knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) required
Demonstrated experience with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems required
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, auditors, and departmental faculty and staff.
Significant experience managing a team of accounting professionals within a complex organization.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in accounting or a related field preferred.
CPA or other relevant professional certification strongly preferred.
Experience in higher education or a nonprofit environment highly desirable.
Experience with fund accounting preferred.
Workday experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Oversees the daily operations of the accounting functional areas, including payroll, treasury, tax, general ledger, and financial business systems.
Provides supervision and support to a team of accounting professionals and specialists, including responsibilities for hiring, performance management, coaching, and professional development.
In conjunction with the Controller, oversees the implementation, maintenance, and ongoing operation of financial systems, including Workday modules for payroll, general ledger, fixed assets and cash.
Assists in maintaining the general ledger and chart of accounts in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and higher education accounting practices.
Works closely with departmental administrative staff and business managers to support effective use of financial systems and processes, identify operational needs, and provide guidance on accounting policies and procedures.
Develops and delivers training and documentation for departmental users related to financial tools, reports, and business processes.
Assists the Associate Treasurer and Controller with certain treasury-related activities, including cash management and short-term cash forecasting.
Ensures that cash receipts and irrevocable planned gifts are recorded accurately and in a timely manner in the accounting system.
Oversees account reconciliations and monthly close activities, monitoring timely completion and resolving discrepancies as needed.
Reviews and approves journal entries and selected financial transactions, including expense reports and supplier invoices, to ensure proper documentation, coding, and compliance with University policies.
Ensures accounts are properly monitored and that accurate and timely financial information is provided to departmental budget managers.
Supports the annual budget submission process by assisting departmental administrative staff with budget preparation, system entry, and adherence to established procedures and deadlines.
Assists the Controller in coordinating the annual external audit and prepare required schedules and supporting documentation.
Maintains and evaluates internal controls and key accounting processes; recommends and assists in implementing process improvements and best practices.
Coordinates the preparation and review of tax and other regulatory filings and ensures timely compliance with applicable federal, state, and local requirements.
Builds and maintains effective working relationships with departmental administrators, Business Office colleagues, and external partners; identifies issues and works collaboratively to support timely resolution.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Directs and oversee the management of the general ledger, chart of accounts, and year-end financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and higher education accounting practices.
Oversees accounts payable team and functions.
Coordinates the annual external audit and prepares required schedules and supporting documentation.