Summary of Job Duties and Responsibilities:
This position is responsible for the efficient and effective management and reporting of the University’s financial resources and information. Responsible for leading the financial team in managing the University’s accounting policies, systems and processes, tax and regulatory compliance, cash management, internal controls and financial audits in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Responsible for the planning and direction of the accounting operations and procedures in the following functional areas: accounts payable, payroll, grants and contracts accounting, plant/capital construction accounting, financial reporting, general ledger, and budget management and development. This individual is expected to engage with all areas of the University in a leadership role to strengthen the overall effectiveness of the University’s financial operations, making recommendations and implementing improvements and best practices in operations and internal controls. In addition, the position is responsible for analyzing and providing supporting data for financial/budget trends, university-wide decision making and oversight of the University’s financial resources.
- Candidates will need to demonstrate how they would create a supportive and inclusive environment for faculty, staff, students and the campus community.
- Direct and supervise the accounting staff to achieve departmental and university goals and to provide quality support services to the University community.
- Coordinate and oversee the annual external audit, HB622 Compliance Review, the OMB Single Audit, NCAA Agreed Upon Procedures and program audits.
- Ensure documentation and adherence to university and departmental policies and procedures, related to areas of responsibility. In addition, provide oversight for the continuous improvement of processes and implementation of best practices.
- Lead the department to focus on more electronic and automated means of reporting, data gathering and routine processing tasks.
- Manage cash and investments, which includes maintaining banking and financial services relationship
- Manage debt service obligations, meeting bond requirements as well as arbitrage responsibilities.
- Oversee the processing, maintenance and upgrade of all ERP (Banner) and peripheral financial systems modules.
- Structure, review and analyze routine financial reports, quarterly financial statements and ad hoc financial analysis. These may be for internal, state, federal and private purposes.
- Assist the VPFAS in managing the budget development and maintenance processes, including budgetary position control and state biennial budget reporting.
- Prepare budgeting modeling scenarios and track financial indicators to assist with monitoring performance and financial planning.
- Establish and maintain internal controls to ensure compliance with GAAP, state and federal tax authorities, and other regulatory requirements.
- Interact with counterparts at other state universities within the Commonwealth of Kentucky to help address common issues, stay current on state initiatives and utilize as a resource for best practices.
- Monitor university financial resources and report deviations to Vice President or appropriate individual.
- Other duties as assigned.
Minimum Education Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Accounting
- Current Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification.
- Minimum Experience and Skill Requirements
- At least 7 years of progressively responsible experience in higher education financial management with direct responsibility in areas of fiscal analysis, internal controls, asset management, budget, accounting and financial reporting.
- Knowledge of current and changing federal and state accounting requirements and regulations.
- Extensive managerial and supervisory experience.
- Strong understanding of principles of finance and accounting, detail oriented.
- Have a high attention to detail, ability to think analytically and be a problem solver
- Must be energetic, have high ethical standards, a strong and committed work ethic and be well respected among peers.
- Demonstrated effective oral and written communication ability and strong technology skills.
- Preferred Education and/or Experience Qualifications
- A Master of Business Administration (MBA) and/or a Certified Management Accountant (CMA) is highly desirable.
- Experience with higher education auditing services, federal grants management and Ellucian/Banner ERP systems.