Assistant Controller

University of St. Thomas•Houston, TX

22d•Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Controller will provide the Controller and VP for Finance with assistance on all financial-related tasks. The Assistant Controller will be responsible for process documentation, efficiency improvement identification, and process redesign recommendations. The Assistant Controller will be the primary individual responsible for planning, documenting and executing on operational improvement initiatives designed to make the business office more effective and efficient such that it can better serve the University community. (S)he will also provide assistance to the Controller and VP for Finance on complex matters involving business analysis, accounting change implementation, and financial reporting design. The Assistant Controller will serve as the key point of contact for the accounting, purchasing and payroll functions in the absence of the Controller.

Requirements

Minimum five years of accounting and finance experience, ideally gathering, evaluating, presenting and reporting financial information and project plans to executive teams and external stakeholders.
Minimum of two years of experience in higher education with demonstrable experience improving processes, managing cross functional projects, and documentation
Business process engineering mentality and experience implementing process improvements is a must
Substantial experience coordinating project teams and utilizing project management tools
Ability to define problems, collect and analyze data, and make strategic
Demonstrated ability to multitask and operate in a dynamic, fast paced and deadline oriented environment
Experience in a complex organization that has multiple programs, departments, and divisions
Ability to analyze financial data and prepare financial reports, statements and projections
Thorough knowledge of finance, accounting, budgeting, and cost control principles including Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
Exceptional effective oral and written communication skills
Effective group presentation skills and the ability to explain complex financial and business concepts to non-financial individuals
Demonstrated ability to work well with staff at all levels throughout the University; create and promote a positive, supportive, and customer centric work environment
Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and unwavering commitment to the University's mission; a proactive, hands-on strategic thinker who will own the operational effectiveness of the Business Office
Keen analytic, organization and problem solving skills which allow for strategic data interpretation
Ability and desire to translate complex financial concepts to individuals at all levels including finance and non-finance managers
Advanced proficiency level in Excel and personal computing operations
Proficient level of knowledge in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint software
Thorough understanding of large ERP accounting applications; PeopleSoft experience strongly preferred
Must be able to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and governmental

Nice To Haves

Master's preferred.
CPA preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Develop operational procedures and document data flow
Assist the Controller in producing accurate and timely financial reports
Coordinate financial audits with the Controller and VP for Finance
Establish internal control systems to prevent inaccuracies in financial statements and budget reports
Assist in the month/quarterly end close including account analysis and reconciliation
Responsible for managing operational data ensuring data integrity and accuracy
Manage endowment funds to ensure proper accounting and stewardship
Partner with the Controller in overseeing the operations of the accounting department and organizational structure to ensure achievement of departmental goals and objectives
Participate as needed in the annual budgeting and forecasting process
Research accounting issues for compliance with generally accepted accounting principles
Delegate data entry tasks with junior accounting
Assist in all financial, project/program and grants accounting; ensure that expenditures are consistently aligned with grant and program budgets throughout the grant/fund period; collate financial reporting materials for government, corporate, and foundation grants.
Analyze, document, and design all business office processes and recommend improvement initiatives maximizing value and minimizing waste using lean (or similar) methodology.
Ensures that all university and required accounting policies and procedures are followed by the institution.
Managing hardware as well as software applications of the
Implementation and upgrading of the
Assist in special projects as necessary