Controller

Position Summary The Controller serves as the senior accounting officer of Simmons College of Kentucky and is responsible for the integrity of the College's financial records, accounting operations, internal controls, and financial reporting processes. Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the Controller leads day-to-day accounting operations, manages month-end and year-end close processes, oversees restricted and grant fund compliance, supports external audit coordination, and ensures accurate, timely financial reporting in alignment with GAAP and institutional policies. This role is critical to strengthening internal controls, enhancing audit readiness, and ensuring fiscal stewardship in a mission-driven higher education environment. Key Responsibilities Financial Reporting & Close Management Lead and manage the monthly and annual close processes, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting (target close cycle: 10 business days or fewer). Prepare or oversee preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP. Review journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules. Ensure proper classification of revenues, expenses, and restricted funds. Restricted & Grant Fund Oversight Monitor restricted, donor-designated, and grant-funded accounts to ensure compliance with funding requirements. Collaborate with grant administrators to reconcile drawdowns and expenditures. Ensure accurate tracking and reporting of Title III and other federal/state funding streams. Internal Controls & Compliance Strengthen and document internal control procedures across accounting operations. Implement reconciliation standards and documentation protocols. Reduce control deficiencies and enhance audit documentation workflows. Ensure compliance with institutional policies, federal regulations, and financial best practices. Audit & External Reporting Serve as primary accounting liaison for external auditors. Prepare audit schedules and supporting documentation. Support timely completion of annual audit with minimal findings. Assist in preparation of board-facing financial reports and executive summaries. Budget Support & Financial Analysis Support annual operating budget development and monitoring. Conduct variance analysis and provide financial insights to the CFO and leadership. Monitor cash flow and assist in liquidity planning. Staff & Systems Oversight Supervise accounting staff (AP, AR, payroll, and related functions as assigned). Promote accountability and financial process discipline. Support ERP optimization and system improvements. Assist in implementing automated workflows (e.g., digital approvals, reconciliation tracking). Qualifications Required Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (Bachelor's with strong experience considered). Minimum 5-7 years progressive accounting experience. Demonstrated experience in month-end close and financial reporting. Strong knowledge of GAAP. Experience with ERP systems (e.g., Oracle, SAP, or similar platforms). Advanced Excel skills and strong analytical capability. Experience strengthening internal controls. Preferred Higher education or nonprofit accounting experience. Experience with federal grants and restricted fund accounting. Prior audit coordination experience. CPA (or CPA-eligible) preferred but not required. Core Competencies Financial Integrity & Accuracy Internal Control Leadership Compliance & Risk Awareness Strategic Financial Thinking Accountability & Follow-Through Mission Alignment Compensation Salary range: $82,000 - $105,000 , commensurate with experience. Tiered placement within the range will be based on demonstrated experience in audit leadership, independent close management, grant compliance oversight, and supervisory responsibility. Performance-based increases may be considered based on achievement of: Timely month-end close improvements Audit stabilization milestones Internal control enhancements Compliance performance Work Environment This position operates in a collaborative, mission-driven higher education environment and works closely with the CFO, President, Cabinet, and Board Finance Committee.