Controller

The Controller provides strategic leadership and oversight for all core financial accounting, reporting, and compliance functions. This role safeguards the accuracy and integrity of the University's financial data; ensures adherence to GASB, GAAP, state regulations, and federal requirements; and supports long term financial planning. The Controller directs accounting operations, financial reporting, treasury services, and internal controls, serving as a key advisor to executive leadership on critical fiscal matters. Financial Recordkeeping & Reporting Maintain ledgers, journals, registers, and other fiscal records. Allocate revenues, classify expenditures, and post deposits. Prepare and analyze financial statements and reports for accuracy and completeness. Review compliance reports and audits for internal and external stakeholders. Maintain detailed project files for financial tracking and reporting. Audit & Compliance Oversight Support audits to ensure adherence to legal and institutional financial policies. Develop and evaluate policies to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations. Serve as the primary contact for auditors and regulatory agencies. Respond to inquiries related to institutional financial compliance. Financial Monitoring & Reconciliation Monitor budgets, expenditures, billing, and collections. Conduct budget reviews and general ledger reconciliations. Ensure financial activity aligns with institutional policies and accounting standards. Systems & Process Development Design, implement, and maintain recordkeeping and accounting systems using current technologies. Develop compliance systems and maintain strong internal controls. Adapt processes to meet evolving regulatory requirements. Stakeholder Engagement & Communication Respond to inquiries and provide financial information to faculty, staff, and students. Staff Leadership & Development Supervise and mentor personnel. Lead hiring, set performance goals, and support professional growth. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance or related field from a regionally accredited institution. 7+ years in financial reporting and accounting. 5+ years in accounting. 5+ years leadership, regulatory compliance. Desired Qualifications Master's degree. Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential. Experience in Texas public higher education financial management, grants accounting, and enterprise financial systems.

Key Competencies:

Skill in: Preparing correspondence and forms. Working as a team member and establishing rapport. Analyzing and resolving problems. Interpreting laws and statutes. Providing solutions. Managing and monitoring a department, including hiring/disciplinary actions, setting objectives, evaluating performance, and realigning work. Working with and tracking large amounts of data.

Ability to:

Interpret, analyze, and apply policies, reports, laws, state rules, TSUS and university policies and procedures. Perform complex math. Communicate with faculty, staff, and students. Provide excellent customer service and convey complex information clearly. Communicate and work effectively with people from different backgrounds. Prepare basic financial statements and reports. Review and analyze financial information. Maintain routine accounting data in ledgers and journals. Think critically and creatively. Understand the relevance of accounting information to organizational health. Perform highly independent work and resolve complex accounting/financial problems. Look ahead to future deadlines and manage time effectively.

Demonstrate :

Sound decision-making, negotiation, and strategic-thinking skills. A positive attitude that fosters team building, collaboration, and innovation.

Physical Requirements :

Able to lift 25 lbs and be able to perform a variety of physical tasks including lifting, bending, stooping, squatting, stair climbing and walking between buildings. J ob

Conditions :

Office setting that involves sedentary work at a desk to handle multiple administrative duties. Work schedule is typically Monday-Friday, 8am - 5pm but may include working extended hours if necessary to complete projects.

Special Note:

We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.

Who We Are:

Home to more than 18,000 students, Lamar University is among the fastest growing Texas colleges and universities. LU is a member of The Texas State University System, which is the first higher education system of Texas and maintains the lowest average tuition and fees of any university system in Texas. With more than 120-degree options and a community that cares, Lamar students are always proud to be Cardinals. Lamar University strives to educate leaders, demonstrate excellence in student learning and career readiness, and pursue research with relevance. Lamar University is committed to fostering an environment of teamwork where all students, faculty, and staff can learn, work, and become a part of our community.

Benefits:

Health, dental & vision insurance? Life insurance State of Texas Retirement plans Tuition covered at 100% for employees, spouses and/or eligible dependents. Paid time off - vacation, sick, and holidays.? To see more information about the available benefits, please visit: Benefits - Lamar University