Controller

The University of Olivet, a private liberal arts institution located in Olivet, Michigan, seeks an experienced and detail-orientated Controller to join their dedicated Business office.

Founded in 1844, The University of Olivet is a private, mission-driven liberal arts institution with a long-standing commitment to access, equity, and individualized student success. Olivet was the first college in Michigan to admit women and persons of color on a co-equal basis with white men and continues to define itself by who it includes rather than who it excludes.

Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt

Reports To: Chief Financial Officer (CFO) or Vice President of Finance

Department: Finance & Administration

Location: Onsite (with flexibility as applicable)

Position Summary

The Controller is responsible for leading and executing the university's financial accounting operations, ensuring the integrity of financial data, maintaining strong internal controls, and supporting informed decision making. This highly collaborative role oversees accounting staff, coordinates external audits, ensures compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards, and delivers timely and accurate financial reporting that supports the long-term sustainability of the university.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Accounting

Direct all general ledger functions including institutional, grant, endowment, and student accounts.

Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.

Maintain compliance with GAAP, FASB standards (including ASC 958), and applicable federal and state regulations.

Oversee accounting for endowments, restricted gifts, pledges, and donor-designated funds.

Budgeting & Forecasting Support

Partner with the CFO and university leadership to support annual budget development.

Provide departmental budget support, training, and financial analysis.

Assist in multi-year financial modeling and tuition/fee planning.

Internal Controls & Compliance

Design, monitor, and enhance internal control systems including cash management, purchasing, payroll, and financial data security.

Coordinate annual external audits (financial statements, federal compliance audits such as A-133 if applicable).

Ensure compliance with IRS regulations, IPEDS, Title IV financial regulations, state grant requirements, and accreditation standards.

Cash, Grants, and Student Account Oversight

Monitor cash flow, treasury activities, and debt obligations.

Ensure proper financial administration of federal/state grants, sponsored programs, and restricted funds.

Support student accounts, billing policies, tuition receivable reconciliation, and payment plan management.

Leadership & Team Development

Supervise and mentor accounting team members.

Promote a culture of accountability, customer service, ethical practice, and continuous process improvement.

Collaborate across departments including Student Affairs, Advancement, IT, Enrollment, and Academics.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.

CPA license or significant progress toward certification preferred.

Minimum 5-7 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably including nonprofit or higher education.

Strong technical understanding of GAAP, FASB, and nonprofit accounting (ASC 958).

Experience leading and developing accounting staff.

Proficiency in financial management software and advanced Excel skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in higher education accounting, student information systems, or financial aid compliance.

Knowledge of utility systems such as Jenzabar, or similar ERP systems.

Experience with endowment accounting, investments, or multi-fund accounting.

Key Competencies

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Ethical judgment and discretion with confidential information.

Clear communication that supports non-financial stakeholders.

Ability to organize and manage complex, multi-deadline tasks.

Collaborative leadership style focused on service and education.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

Office environment with standard technology.

Occasional evening or weekend work during audits, budget adoption periods, or fiscal year-end.

Ability to sit for extended periods and work with computers, files, and financial documents.

Standard business hours Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm.

Location

The University of Olivet is located in Olivet, Michigan, a small college town centrally positioned between major Midwest population centers, including Lansing, Detroit, and Chicago.

Application and Nomination

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is early 2026.

To apply: Please complete an application here and include all required materials (resume, cover letter, etc.)

The University of Olivet is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive campus community. Women and members of historically underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.