Associate Director of Accounting Services

About the position

At the System Administration office at the University of Colorado, we are dedicated to building a workplace where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. Our office is committed to fostering a culture where employees find community, a sense of belonging, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to our mission and purpose. By joining our team, you'll have a direct impact on shaping the future of higher education. In addition to the Office of the Board of Regents, the University of Colorado's system administration includes 19 units that provide essential services to CU's campuses in Aurora, Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Denver, as well as the Office of the President. While not a part of any one campus, we are proud to serve in the centralized office for the University system. Together, we ensure CU continues to deliver outstanding education, groundbreaking research, and valuable service to our communities. We believe in creating an environment where the unique experiences and perspectives of everyone are embraced, enriching the work we do and the strategic outcomes we pursue. If you're passionate about making a difference, contributing to a dynamic team, and supporting a mission that matters, we encourage you to apply and be part of our journey. Learn more about CU System Administration.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for the ongoing leadership, strategic vision and processes, and oversight of the Accounting Services team
• Manage and provide strategic guidance to staff responsible for internal, external, and state financial reporting, ensuring accuracy and compliance with applicable regulations.
• Oversee the preparation of financial reports, variance analyses, and reconciliations, ensuring timely and accurate submission to internal and external partners.
• Provide mentorship and training to staff, encouraging a culture of accountability, accuracy, and continuous improvement.
• Ensures accuracy and timely preparation of the University's financial statements, and ensures timely and accurate feed to the Colorado Resource Engine (CORE)
• Manages and maintains the chart of accounts for all four University of Colorado campuses
• Directs and coordinates all aspects of the annual external financial audit and related communications
• Develops strategies and recommends changes to University policies and procedures to strengthen compliance with applicable accounting and auditing requirements
• Maintains current knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) issued by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) that affect the university's financial systems and best practices in internal controls over financial reporting
• Acts in an advisory role and engages with campus controller offices, providing guidance and leadership in the interpretation of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, and implementation of new GASB standards
• Acts as liaison and collaborates between the University and the Office of State Controller (OSC), the Office of State Auditor (OSA), UCCS, CU Denver, CU Boulder, CU Anschutz, and others

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in the field of accounting, or a related field, from an accredited institution of higher education (professional experience may be substituted for the educational requirement on a year-for-year basis)
• Six (6) years of technical accounting experience, internal/external reporting, and/or auditing, which may include experience in auditing at a public accounting firm
• One (1) years of experience in a managerial or supervisory role, which includes supervising personnel, developing/mentoring direct reports, and completing performance reviews to ensure continuous improvement, high performance, and employee retention
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Nice-to-haves

• Nine (9) years' of technical accounting experience, internal/external reporting, and/or auditing, which may include experience in auditing at a public accounting firm
• Four (4) years' experience years of experience in a managerial or supervisory role, which includes supervising personnel, developing/mentoring direct reports, and completing performance reviews to ensure continuous improvement, high performance, and employee retention
• Three (3) years of experience in auditing at a public accounting firm
• Professional experience with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) issued by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB)
• Professional experience with PeopleSoft enterprise software
• Professional experience in the State of Colorado higher education system
• Professional experience with the State of Colorado's general ledger system, commonly referred to as CORE

Benefits

• No-cost or low-cost medical & dental plan options, some inclusive of IVF assistance.
• Disability, Life, Vision Insurance options.
• Multiple retirement planning options including a mandatory 401(a) plan where CU contributes 10% of your gross pay, a 401k or 403b plan and a 457 deferred compensation plan.
• Pre-tax savings plans, such as Health care and Dependent care flexible spending accounts.
• Ample sick and vacation leave, along with at least 12 paid holidays, including a dedicated week off for winter break.
• 6 weeks of parental leave to adjust to the joys of parenthood.
• A tuition benefit program for you and/or your dependents.
• Free RTD EcoPass and Free Onsite Parking at our 1800 Grant Street Office.
• Many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.