Strategic Finance Controller for Higher Education

Notre-Dame-De-Namur-University; Belmont (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Notre-Dame-De-Namur-University in Belmont, California is seeking a strategic Controller to lead the Finance & Administration office. You will oversee accounting, financial reporting, internal controls, and compliance, while modernizing systems and driving data-informed decision making.

The role reports to the CFO, supervises multiple staff, partners with IT, HR, and auditors, and guides annual audits, external statements, and financial planning for institutional priorities.

Qualifications

• Ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in accounting or finance, preferably in higher education or nonprofit.
• Minimum five (5) years of progressively responsible leadership and supervisory experience managing professional staff and multiple functional areas.
• Experience leading financial system implementations, upgrades, optimizations, or business improvement initiatives is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead accounting operations, ensuring accurate processing, recording, reconciliation and reporting of financial transactions.
• Develop and monitor fiscal policies in line with GAAP, GAAS, federal guidelines and state laws.
• Design and monitor a comprehensive internal control framework to safeguard assets and ensure compliance.
• Oversee monthly and annual closes and provide cash reconciliations and fund balance projections to the CFO.
• Coordinate with HR/Payroll for payroll accounting and controls.
• Coordinate external audits, tax filings, and compliance activities.
• Prepare annual financial statements, audit schedules, and supporting work papers.
• Partner with leadership on financial planning, resource allocation, and KPI development.

Skills

GAAP knowledge

ERP systems

Budgeting

Financial reporting

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance

CPA or MBA preferred

Tools

Jenzabar

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Notre-Dame-De-Namur-University in Belmont, California is seeking a strategic Controller to lead the Finance & Administration office. You will oversee accounting, financial reporting, internal controls, and compliance, while modernizing systems and driving data-informed decision making.

The role reports to the CFO, supervises multiple staff, partners with IT, HR, and auditors, and guides annual audits, external statements, and financial planning for institutional priorities.