On-Campus Senior Controller & Finance Director

SPU Seattle Pacific University; United States; On-site; USD 145,000 - 168,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

Retirement contributions

Tuition discount

Job summary

Seattle Pacific University seeks an experienced, mission-driven Senior Controller and Director of Finance to lead Finance, Accounting, Treasury, Budget, and Business Development on campus in Seattle, WA.

The role partners with the President, Cabinet, and Board to enhance SPU’s long-term financial health, institutional sustainability, and data-informed decision making, aligning with SPU’s Christian mission.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field.
• 7–10 years of progressively responsible financial management and leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, audit standards, and compliance requirements.
• Proven success leading and developing teams in a complex organization.
• Experience with modern ERP and financial management systems.
• Ability to translate complex financial information into clear guidance for senior leaders.

Responsibilities

• Lead university-wide financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
• Oversee accounting, treasury, and compliance, ensuring GAAP adherence.
• Direct Workday Financials governance, optimization, and analytics.
• Develop FP&A processes and drive cost-management and efficiency initiatives.
• Mentor and develop finance professionals and partner across campus.

Skills

Financial leadership

GAAP knowledge

Strategic planning

Team leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

ERP systems

Financial analysis

Presentations to executives

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related

Master's degree in Business Administration or related

CPA/CMA or similar certification

Tools

Workday Financials

Fund accounting

Job description

Seattle Pacific University seeks an experienced, mission-driven Senior Controller and Director of Finance to lead Finance, Accounting, Treasury, Budget, and Business Development on campus in Seattle, WA.

The role partners with the President, Cabinet, and Board to enhance SPU’s long-term financial health, institutional sustainability, and data-informed decision making, aligning with SPU’s Christian mission.