Controller

Nwciowa; Orange City (IA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Northwestern College is seeking a controller to lead the business office and oversee accounting functions, financial reporting, and day-to-day operations. The role reports to the VP of finance and operations and emphasizes strong internal controls and collaboration across departments.

The controller will supervise the accounting team, prepare audit workpapers, and support compliance with relevant standards. A CPA/licensure and ERP experience are highly valued for successful candidates.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in accounting is required.
• Public Accountancy License or Certification (current or previous) is required.
• Five to ten years of general accounting experience, with three to five years in supervisory leadership or controllership, is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee accounting functions, financial reporting and day-to-day business operations.
• Maintain effective internal accounting controls and safeguard financial assets.
• Manage accounting systems and subsidiary ledgers to ensure accuracy and timeliness of information.
• Supervise accounting team and prepare audit workpapers and annual financial statements.
• Support compliance with accounting standards, regulatory requirements and internal policies.
• Collaborate with departments across the college to ensure systems/processes produce reliable reporting.

Skills

ERP systems experience

Analytical skills

Independent work

Communication & leadership

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in accounting

Public Accountancy License or Certification

Job description

Northwestern College seeks a controller to lead and oversee the business office. The position is full-time, with a December-to-January preferred start.

Reporting to the vice president of finance and operations, the controller provides leadership and oversight of the college’s accounting functions, financial reporting, and day-to-day business operations. This role is responsible for maintaining effective internal accounting controls, managing accounting systems and subsidiary ledgers, and safeguarding the college’s financial assets while ensuring accurate, timely and reliable financial information.

The controller supervises the accounting team and performs day-to-day accounting and business operations. The controller oversees the preparation of audit workpapers and annual financial statements, and supports the college’s compliance with applicable accounting standards, regulatory requirements and internal policies. As a collaborative problem-solver, the controller works closely with departments across the college to ensure systems and processes are functioning to produce sufficient information for reporting purposes.

Qualified applicants will also:

• Have experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, including accounting software and multi-module or subsidiary ledger systems
• Have strong analytical skills and a high degree of attention to detail to ensure financial data accuracy and integrity
• Be able to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Possess strong communication, interpersonal and team leadership skills and collaborate effectively across departments
• Have a strong commitment to compliance and regulatory matters

A bachelor’s degree in accounting, and Public Accountancy License or Certification (current or previous) is required. Five to 10 years of general accounting experience, with three to five years in supervisory leadership or controllership, is also preferred.

Northwestern College seeks candidates with an authentic Christian faith who will embrace and live out our mission & values ,including our Reformed, evangelical and ecumenical identity as stated in our Christian Identity Statement, Mission Statement, Vision for Learning and Vision for Diversity. We view these statements as complementary and draw from each in fulfilling our mission.