Logo
University of Bridgeport

Controller

University of Bridgeport, Bridgeport, Connecticut, us, 06610

Save Job

5 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Description The mission of the University of Bridgeport is to promote academic excellence, personal responsibility, and commitment to service. Distinctive curricula in an international, culturally diverse supportive learning environment prepare graduates for life and leadership in an increasingly interconnected world.

Position Description Summary / Purpose The Controller reports to the Vice President of Finance/CFO and is responsible for maintaining the financial integrity of the University. The Controller is responsible for the University’s accounting and financial reporting functions and directs, coordinates, and oversees the University’s various financial, accounting, budget and treasury operations. The Controller establishes University accounting and financial policies and standards and manages monthly and fiscal year‑end closing and financial reporting processes as well as a variety of accounting, tax, and related processes, policies and procedures. The Controller directs, guides, and oversees staff responsible for accounting, budget and financial planning, treasury, financial reporting, taxes, bursar operations and financial compliance. The Controller is responsible for establishing and maintaining a robust and effective internal control environment.

Job Location Bridgeport, CT

Essential Job Functions / Primary Responsibilities

Designs, establishes and maintains an organizational structure and staffing to effectively accomplish the division’s overall goals and objectives; directs and oversees the hiring, development, management and evaluation of divisional staff.

Develops and maintains written accounting and financial policies and procedures. Advises VP/CFO on all accounting, tax, financial and internal control matters.

Provides advice and support to faculty and staff on University accounting and financial matters.

Coordinates and oversees all aspects of the University’s annual year‑end audit including financial results, pension plan, 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan, OMB circular A‑133 Federal Aid and state financial aid. Manages the relationship with the University’s external auditors.

Oversees and coordinates the preparation of the annual IRS Form 990 tax return. Reviews and adjusts University policy appropriately for changes in the IRS tax code.

Supervises areas of Accounts Payable, Accounting, and Budget. Performs continual review of operations and procedures to improve efficiency and effectiveness of processes.

Collaborates with the Budget team to coordinate the annual budget development process, projected revenue and expenses, cash flow and other critical financial metrics including analysis of actual versus budget financial performance.

Continuously reviews, develops and tests internal controls and available technology to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of controls and operations.

Responsible for cash management, working closely with banks on cash management issues, monitoring cash flow, monitoring potential fraud issues, and ensuring the availability of cash for daily operations.

Responsible for short‑ and long‑term investments, ensuring alignment with Investment Policy and recommending revisions as necessary.

Takes full responsibility for the chart of accounts and general ledger, including review of entries prepared by others and reconciliations.

Serves on University committees as requested.

Assists VP/CFO on bond financing, covenant compliance and debt analysis.

Assists VP/CFO with preparation of materials for the Board of Trustees meetings.

Qualifications Knowledge, Ability and Skill:

Demonstrated commitment to developing and fostering best practices and policies to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Ability to analyze data and develop financial reports for cash flow and financial analysis, forecasting and trending.

Strong ability to interpret financial transactions and events for users.

High degree of oral and written communication skills.

Ability to hire, supervise, motivate and train direct reports.

Excellent organization and analytical skills.

Ability to work independently with self‑confidence.

Proven ability to work cross‑functionally with departments such as Advancement, Budget, HR, IT, and Academic Affairs.

Effective planning, prioritization and execution of projects within tight deadlines.

Proficiency in Excel; familiarity with financial reporting systems such as Datatel Colleague is preferred.

Minimum Required Qualifications

College degree in Finance, Accounting, Business or related field; MBA or CPA preferred.

Minimum 5–7 years of progressively responsible experience in accounting or financial management.

Experience in higher education is preferred.

Full‑Time Employee Benefits

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Pet insurance

401(k) employer match

Employee & dependent life insurance

Great tuition benefits for employee, spouse & dependents

PTO program

Flexible work schedules

(This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the University of Bridgeport and employee. It is used as a guide for personnel actions and is subject to change.)

The University of Bridgeport provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

#J-18808-Ljbffr