Description
The Chief Financial Officer and Controller serves as a senior leader within the Division of Finance and Accounting, responsible for the integrity, accuracy, and compliance of the college’s financial operations. This position oversees accounting, financial reporting, treasury, audit coordination, internal controls, endowment and grant accounting, and compliance with all applicable federal, state, and institutional regulations. The Controller works collaboratively across departments to support the college’s mission and strategic goals through sound financial stewardship and operational excellence.
ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
Financial Accounting and Reporting
-Oversee the day-to-day operations of the general accounting functions.
-Ensure timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting to the Senior Leadership Team (SLT).
-Maintain compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), FASB standards, and relevant nonprofit regulations.
-Lead preparation of financial statements and footnotes for the annual audit and other external reports.
-Provide all financial information to the Board of Trustees as requested. Ensure information is clear and concise to effectively communicate the College’s financial position and future outlook.
Internal Controls and Compliance
-Develop, maintain, and assess internal control systems to safeguard college assets.
-Ensure adherence to college policies and procedures, accounting standards, and regulatory requirements.
-Implement best practices to strengthen financial integrity and mitigate risk.
- Approve all journal entries.
-Perform mini audits of the endowment and restricted accounts.
Treasury and Cash Management
-Manage daily cash operations, bank relationships, and cash flow projections.
-Monitor liquidity needs and recommend short-term investment strategies.
-Oversee debt service payments and covenant compliance.
Budget and Forecast Development
-Partner with the SLT on developing financial forecasts and operating budgets.
-Provide financial modeling and analysis to inform planning and decision-making.
-Provide President and SLT with multi-year financial planning and scenario analysis.
Endowment and Investment Accounting
-Maintain accurate records of endowment activity including fund restrictions, spending distributions, and investment returns.
-Coordinate with external investment advisors and reconcile investment statements.
-Ensure proper classification and treatment of complex endowment structures (e.g., split-interest agreements, unitized pools, underwater funds).
Grant, Gift, and Restricted Funds Accounting
-Monitor and report on grant and donor-restricted funds to ensure appropriate usage.
-Support compliance with federal Uniform Guidance and private foundation requirements.
-Provide oversight for indirect cost recovery and grant financial reporting.
Audit and Tax Filings
-Serve as the primary liaison to external auditors and coordinate the annual audit process.
-Oversee the preparation and submission of the IRS Form 990 and other tax-related filings.
-Coordinate compliance with external audits (e.g., financial aid, federal programs).
Systems and Process Improvement
-Lead continuous improvement efforts to streamline financial processes and leverage technology.
-Support implementation and optimization of financial modules within the ERP system.
-Collaborate with IT and other stakeholders to ensure data accuracy and reporting capabilities.
-Ensure business office is applying the monthly schedule/checklist each month by date.
Leadership and Team Development
-Supervise and develop accounting and finance staff through effective coaching, goal setting, and performance management.
-Promote a culture of collaboration, integrity, service, and professional development.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field required; CPA or MBA preferred.
- Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible accounting experience, including supervisory responsibilities.
- Experience in nonprofit or higher education financial management strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated knowledge of GAAP, FASB/GASB requirements, endowment accounting, and federal compliance requirements.
- Proficiency in financial systems (ERP), Microsoft Excel, and data reporting tools.
- Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
CENTRAL COLLEGE BRAND EXPECTATIONS
- Demonstrate a network of caring relationships by showing respect for others, being dependable and promoting cooperation with others in the work environment.
- Be your best self by being accountable for responsibilities, adapting well to change and maintaining the highest standards of business ethics.
- Perform job responsibilities on campus to support the residential college environment.
- Strive to perform as effectively as possible while maintaining a high level of quality and promoting personal growth and development.
- Respect and comply with college rules and policies, including participation in required training courses; report any suspected violations of the Title IX policy to the Title IX Coordinator.
To be eligible for this position, applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without restriction. Applicants who now or may in the future require visa sponsorship to work in the United States are not eligible.
ABOUT
Central College of Pella, Iowa, is a private college known for its active student body, academic rigor, and athletics success. Our students learn collaboratively with supportive educators who share a commitment to intellectual engagement, personal growth, career readiness and civic involvement. Founded in 1853 and shaped by its Christian heritage, the college of 1,100 students participates in NCAA Division III athletics and is a member of the American Rivers Conference. Central is an active part of the Greater Des Moines region and just minutes from Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake.
