Controller - Higher Ed Finance & GAAP Leader

Cleary University; Howell (MI); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Cleary University is seeking an experienced Controller to lead accounting operations and provide day-to-day financial leadership for the Finance Department and Business Office. Reporting to the CFO, you will own the integrity of accounting records, financial reporting, budget maintenance, internal controls, reconciliations, audit preparation, and cash management while supervising the Business Office.

This role combines technical accounting with people management as you improve processes and

Qualifications

• Required degree in accounting/finance or related field.
• Experience leading accounting and financial-management teams.
• Strong GAAP knowledge and staff supervision.
• Experience with higher-ed grants and Title IV accounting is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Direct accounting function and monthly/annual close per GAAP.
• Lead and supervise the Business Office (AP, AR, student accounts, cash receipts).
• Maintain rolling cash-flow forecast and bank reconciliations.
• Coordinate annual financial statement audits and Single Audit.
• Oversee Title IV financial-aid accounting and reconciliation.
• Manage annual budgeting process operational side.
• Lead use of Jenzabar One and drive process improvements.
• Collaborate with CFO, President, Financial Aid, HR, Enrollment, and Advancement

Skills

GAAP knowledge

People management

Advanced Excel

Financial reporting

Budgeting

Cash management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field

Tools

Jenzabar One

Higher-ed ERP

Job description

Cleary University is seeking an experienced Controller to lead accounting operations and provide day-to-day financial leadership for the Finance Department and Business Office. Reporting to the CFO, you will own the integrity of accounting records, financial reporting, budget maintenance, internal controls, reconciliations, audit preparation, and cash management while supervising the Business Office.

This role combines technical accounting with people management as you improve processes and