Controller

University of Mary; Bismarck (ND); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

8% retirement match

Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

Tuition benefits for employees and/or+

Discounted meal plan

Wellness Center discount

Job summary

The University of Mary seeks an experienced Controller to lead Financial Affairs, ensuring GAAP-compliant financial reporting, robust internal controls, and transparent fiscal management. This senior role guides accounting operations, budgeting, and audits while advising university leadership on strategic financial decisions.

We value a CPA or advanced degree and 7–10 years in progressive accounting roles, preferably in higher education or nonprofit settings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance (Master's or CPA preferred).
• 7–10 years' progressive accounting experience, preferably in higher education or nonprofit.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, fund accounting, and federal compliance requirements.
• Proficiency with financial systems (Ellucian, Workday, Banner) and Excel.

Responsibilities

• Oversee financial reporting, compliance, and internal controls for the university.
• Manage general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, and fixed asset accounting.
• Lead audits with external auditors and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Develop and enforce financial policies and procedures.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis with leadership.
• Manage and mentor accounting staff and foster accuracy and accountability.

Skills

GAAP knowledge

Financial analysis

Internal controls

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance

Master's or CPA

Tools

Ellucian

Workday

Banner

Excel

Job description

Controller

The University of Mary ls seeking an experienced professional to serve in Financial Affairs. The Controller is a senior financial leader responsible for overseeing the university’s accounting operations, financial reporting, compliance, and internal controls. This role ensures the integrity of financial systems and supports strategic decision-making through accurate and timely financial data. The Controller plays a critical role in maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency across the institution.

Benefits Include:

• Retirement benefits with an 8% match
• Medical, Dental, Vision and supplemental insurance
• Free or discounted tuition for employees and dependents
• Discounted meal plan
• Discounted membership at the campus Wellness Center

Essential Roles/Responsibilities:

Financial Reporting & Compliance

• Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including IRS, DOE, and other regulatory bodies.
• Coordinate annual audits and manage relationships with external auditors.

Accounting Operations

• Oversee general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, and fixed asset accounting.
• Maintain and improve internal control systems to safeguard university assets.
• Supervise and mentor accounting staff, fostering a culture of accuracy and accountability

Policy & Procedure Development

• Develop and enforce financial policies and procedures that align with best practices and institutional goals.
• Ensure proper documentation and training for financial systems and processes.

Technology & Systems

• Manage financial systems and software, ensuring data integrity and system efficiency.
• Lead or support ERP implementations and upgrades as needed.

Budgeting & Forecasting

• Collaborate with the VP of Financial Affairs and department heads to develop and monitor the annual budget.
• Provide financial analysis and forecasting to support strategic initiatives and long-term planning.

Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, and a Master’s or CPA required.
• Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in higher education or nonprofit sector.

Qualifications

• Represents the Office of Financial Affairs with integrity and a high level of professionalism
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, fund accounting, and federal compliance requirements.
• Proficiency in financial systems (e.g., Ellucian, Workday, Banner) and Microsoft Excel.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Maintains absolute confidentiality and discretion in all matters related to the Office of Financial Affairs and associated areas of responsibility
• Experience with grant accounting and restricted funds.
• Familiarity with endowment management and donor reporting.
• Ability to thrive in a mission-driven, collaborative environment.

knowledge and skills

• High degree of tact, discretion, and diplomacy in dealing with sensitive situations and individuals
• Ability to work independently and with a team of colleagues
• Ability to set priorities and exercise sound judgment in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to understand, interpret, explain, and apply rules and policies applicable to areas of responsibility
• Strong organizational and verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to prepare clear, accurate, and concise correspondence, records, reports, and other documents
• Expertise with Microsoft Office software applications, especially Excel
• Preferably proficiency with the Jenzabar database

UNIVERSITY PROFILE

Student Population: Fall 2024 enrollment of 3,801, including 2,288 traditional undergraduate students and 1,513 graduate and nontraditional students. The student/faculty ratio is 10:1, with a 17% minority population representing all 50 states and 19 countries.

Academics: The University of Mary boasts 294 faculty members, offering 60+ bachelor's degree programs, 21 master’s degree programs, 5 doctoral degree programs, and 16 pre-professional programs.

Campus Facilities & Surrounding Community: a main campus with 866,000 square feet of facilities, 13 residence halls & apartment buildings, a research library with 50,000+ volumes, a 24/7 campus restaurant, coffee shops, and a pub, along with 9 satellite locations throughout the United States and abroad. Bismarck/Mandan is an intimate metropolitan area with a population of approximately 120,000, exemplary family and parish life, friendly neighborhoods, a low crime rate, clean air, and excellent schools, and enjoyable recreational and cultural facilities: 75+ miles of hiking trails, 62 parks, 7 golf courses, and four seasons of recreational opportunities on the Missouri River.

For more information on the University of Mary, please watch a short video by clicking on this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go37Hy6QrVs.

A campus tour is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XY66HYhVQSE.

OUR MISSION AND IDENTITY

Mission:

The University of Mary serves the religious, academic, and cultural needs of the people in this region and beyond, rooted in the commitment of the Sisters of Annunciation Monastery. We are Christian, Catholic, and Benedictine.

Christian Identity:

We strive to accomplish our mission in faithfulness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, valuing each human person as created in the image and likeness of God. We aim to be agents of cultural renewal, advocating for justice and peace.

Catholic Identity:

Drawing life from the heart of the Church, we integrate spiritual and philosophical approaches to enduring questions of human life, fostering dialogue between Faith and Reason; we are joyfully and faithfully Catholic.

Benedictine Identity:

Inspired by the Benedictine Sisters who founded the university, we cherish a heritage of prayer, community, and service, modeling virtues of warm hospitality, balance, and generosity.

Equal Opportunity Employer