Controller

Wesley Biblical Seminary•Ridgeland, MS

About The Position

The Controller serves as the senior internal financial officer of Wesley Biblical Seminary and is responsible for overseeing all day‑to‑day accounting and financial operations of the institution. Reporting directly to the President, the Controller ensures accurate financial reporting, strong internal controls, and faithful stewardship of the Seminary’s resources in support of its mission to "trusted leaders for faithful Churches." This position provides hands‑on operational leadership while partnering strategically with a fractional CFO, senior administration, and key stakeholders.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required
Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in accounting or financial management, preferably in higher education, nonprofit, or faith‑based organizations.
Strong working knowledge of GAAP, nonprofit accounting standards, and internal control practices.
Experience supervising staff and managing multiple financial functions simultaneously.
Proficiency with accounting software, spreadsheets, and financial reporting systems.
Demonstrated ability to communicate financial information clearly to non‑financial leaders.
High level of integrity, discretion, and commitment to faithful stewardship.
Ability to work collaboratively in a mission‑driven environment and to support the theological and educational mission of Wesley Biblical Seminary.

Nice To Haves

master’s degree or CPA preferred
Familiarity with student accounts, tuition revenue, and financial aid processes strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Oversee all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll coordination, cash management, and monthly close.
Prepare timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for the President, senior leadership, and governing boards.
Supervise and support the Accounting Clerk and the Financial Aid & Student Accounting Manager, ensuring effective workflows, accountability, and compliance.
Coordinate and collaborate with a fractional CFO on budgeting, forecasting, audit preparation, financial analysis, and long‑range planning.
Manage the annual budgeting process in close cooperation with the President and senior leadership, including variance analysis and corrective recommendations.
Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, accrediting, and donor financial requirements, including Title IV and student financial aid regulations.
Maintain and strengthen internal controls to safeguard Seminary assets and promote financial integrity and transparency.
Serve as the primary liaison with external auditors, tax preparers, banks, and other financial service providers.
Oversee tuition billing, student accounts, financial aid reconciliation, and related reporting in coordination with enrollment and financial aid offices.
Support strategic decision‑making by providing clear financial insights related to enrollment trends, donor activity, and institutional sustainability.
Assist with Board and Finance Committee materials, reports, and presentations as requested.
Perform other duties consistent with the nature of the position and the mission of the Seminary as assigned by the President.