Director of Financial Services

University of Central Oklahoma•Edmond, OK

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Financial Services Department is responsible for managing and overseeing all accounting functions of the University. This includes the accurate and timely completion of financial statements, reconciliation of ledger accounts, university audits, and internal and external reporting requirements. The department monitors account activity, evaluates internal controls, supports financial system integrations, and ensures compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) guidelines, and applicable regulatory requirements. The Director of Financial Services provides leadership and direction for the University’s accounting operations, ensuring accuracy, integrity, and compliance while driving improvements in efficiency, consistency, and effectiveness across the department. This role requires a strong people leader who can set expectations, coach and develop staff, and lead change, while also remaining actively engaged in day‑to‑day accounting operations. The Director is responsible for maintaining sound accounting policies and procedures, strengthening internal controls, modernizing processes where appropriate, and ensuring the financial systems and records of the University are accurate, reliable, and well‑documented. The position plays a key role in improving how the department operates and supports the broader organization.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a closely related field that provides extensive knowledge of fundamental accounting and financial principles.
Demonstrated success in leadership and administration, with the ability to lead teams, manage change, and improve operations.
Seven (7) or more years of progressively responsible experience, including responsibility for complex accounting functions, process improvement, and staff leadership.
Proven ability to analyze problems, develop practical solutions, and implement improvements in a regulated environment.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and database systems.

Nice To Haves

Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
Experience with governmental and fund accounting.
Prior experience in higher education and/or with Banner software.
Broad understanding of finance division operations and cross‑functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

Provide hands‑on leadership, direction, and accountability for a team overseeing general accounting, plant fund accounting, and accounts payable.
Establish clear expectations, promote collaboration, and foster a culture of accuracy, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
Oversee the preparation and presentation of financial statements, reconciliations, and internal and external financial reports.
Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external auditors; coordinate annual audits, respond to audit findings, and ensure corrective actions are implemented.
Evaluate existing accounting processes and internal controls; identify inefficiencies and implement improvements to enhance effectiveness and compliance.
Ensure full compliance with state and federal laws and regulations, University policies, Regional University System requirements, State Board of Regents policies, Internal Revenue regulations, and applicable accounting standards.
Oversee financial system integrations, including payroll system integration, ensuring data integrity and effective system use.
Prepare and review required financial reports for internal stakeholders and external entities, including NCAA Compliance and OMES reporting.
Balance strategic oversight with active involvement in operational work to ensure timely and accurate execution of departmental responsibilities.
Perform other duties as assigned.