Controller

About Siena Heights University:
Siena Heights University is a Catholic institution founded by the Adrian Dominican Sisters located in Adrian, Michigan. With a student population averaging 1,700 undergraduates and 163 graduate-level students, and approximately 300 employees, the mission of Siena Heights University is “to assist people to become more competent, purposeful, and ethical through a teaching and learning environment which respects the dignity of all.” The team at Siena supports the Catholic and Dominican mission, inspired by the life and teachings of St. Catherine of Siena.
 
Position Overview:
Siena Heights University is seeking a meticulous and dedicated Controller to join our dynamic finance team. Reporting directly to the CFO of Business Affairs, this role will involve overseeing the general accounting functions, financial reporting, sponsored programs, and the management of restricted fund activities. The Controller will also support financial projects and external audit engagements, ensuring that all tasks are completed with precision, efficiency, and in a timely manner. This position will be key in upholding the University's financial integrity while ensuring full compliance with accounting standards and regulations. The successful candidate will contribute directly to advancing Siena Heights University's mission and supporting its long-term financial health.
 
Essential Responsibilities:

• Supervises the daily operations of the accounting department, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, cashiering and bank reconciliations, maintenance of general ledger, certain cash management and investment activities, endowment management, financial reporting and management reporting. 
• Monitors the system of internal controls, including financial policies and procedures; develops and implements strategies resulting in minimizing University costs while maintaining service quality. 
• Controls the structure of the automated general ledger system; provides training, authorizations for access, and account set-ups as requested.  Maintains current documentation of user procedures related to this system and subsidiary financial modules, Responsible for the chart of accounts and general ledger.
• Oversees the development, implementation, modification and maintenance of in house computerized financial applications.
• Supervises the monthly closing of the general ledger, assuring that accounts are appropriately analyzed and reconciled.   
• Supervises preparation and review of monthly financial reports and works with appropriate individuals to make adjustments and corrections as needed.
• Coordinates and manages year-end financial closing and annual audits.
• Monitor federal grant programs including calculation of fringes, indirect expenses, and GAP draws.
• Attend and be active with professional development organizations.
• Monitor cash management – bank and internal.
• Performs other job duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting; Master’s degree and CPA certification preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in public accounting or higher education financial administration.
• 3 to 5 years of leadership experience in accounting operations and staff development.

• Experience in preparing financial statements (balance sheets, income statements), budgets, and forecasts.
• Strong ability to analyze financial data and identify trends.
• Expertise in general accounting functions, journal entries, account reconciliations, and tax reporting.
• Ability to establish financial controls, manage risks, and ensure fraud prevention.

• Experience working with auditors and ensuring compliance with accounting standards and regulations.
• Proven leadership skills in managing finance teams and improving financial processes.

• Proficiency with accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP, Jenzabar) and financial reporting systems. Familiarity with data analytics tools for financial decision-making.
• Strong ability to communicate financial information clearly to senior leadership and external stakeholders.

• Experience and training in federal funds accounting.
• Advanced experience with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.).
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrates commitment to:
  • Provide quality customer service
  • Plan, organize, and remain accountable for actions
  • Problem-solving utilizing critical thinking
  • Function in a confidential manner
  • Collaborate with other staff
  • Reliable and dependable attendance
• Passion for the institution’s mission, traditions, and long-term success.

• Sedentary Work: Majority of the work is performed while seated at a desk or computer.
• Computer Use: Prolonged use of a computer, keyboard, and mouse for data entry and financial analysis.
• Occasional Lifting: Ability to lift and carry files or documents (up to 10-15 lbs).
• Visual Concentration: Frequent need for close visual attention to detailed financial data and reports.
• Repetitive Tasks: Frequent repetitive motions, such as typing and using a mouse, which may lead to fatigue.
• Fast-Paced: The environment can be dynamic, especially around reporting deadlines, audits, and month-end activities.
• Team Collaboration: Interaction with team members and other departments to gather data and clarify financial information.
• Minimal Travel: Ability to travel to locations throughout the campus; rare travel for meetings, conferences, or training.
• Stress Levels: Occasional stress due to deadlines, audits, and high volume of work during peak times (e.g., end of quarter, tax season).
• Noise Level: Generally quiet office setting, with occasional background noise from colleagues or office activities.