Controller, Finance & Banking, Financial Reporting

Controller

The University of Mary located at 7500 University Drive, Bismarck ND is seeking an experienced professional to serve in Financial Affairs. The Controller is a senior financial leader responsible for overseeing the university’s accounting operations, financial reporting, compliance, and internal controls. This role ensures the integrity of financial systems and supports strategic decision-making through accurate and timely financial data. The Controller plays a critical role in maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency across the institution.

Benefits Include:

• Retirement benefits with an 8% match
• Medical, Dental, Vision and supplemental insurance
• Free or discounted tuition for employees and dependents
• Discounted meal plan
• Discounted membership at the campus Wellness Center

Essential Roles/Responsibilities:

Financial Reporting & Compliance

• Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including IRS, DOE, and other regulatory bodies.
• Coordinate annual audits and manage relationships with external auditors.

Accounting Operations

• Oversee general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, and fixed asset accounting.
• Maintain and improve internal control systems to safeguard university assets.
• Supervise and mentor accounting staff, fostering a culture of accuracy and accountability

Policy & Procedure Development

• Develop and enforce financial policies and procedures that align with best practices and institutional goals.
• Ensure proper documentation and training for financial systems and processes.

Technology & Systems

• Manage financial systems and software, ensuring data integrity and system efficiency.
• Lead or support ERP implementations and upgrades as needed.

Budgeting & Forecasting

• Collaborate with the VP of Financial Affairs and department heads to develop and monitor the annual budget.
• Provide financial analysis and forecasting to support strategic initiatives and long-term planning.

Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, and a Master’s or CPA required.
• Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in higher education or nonprofit sector.

Qualifications

• Represents the Office of Financial Affairs with integrity and a high level of professionalism
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, fund accounting, and federal compliance requirements.
• Proficiency in financial systems (e.g., Ellucian, Workday, Banner) and Microsoft Excel.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Maintains absolute confidentiality and discretion in all matters related to the Office of Financial Affairs and associated areas of responsibility
• Experience with grant accounting and restricted funds.
• Familiarity with endowment management and donor reporting.
• Ability to thrive in a mission-driven, collaborative environment.

Knowledge and Skills

• High degree of tact, discretion, and diplomacy in dealing with sensitive situations and individuals
• Ability to work independently and with a team of colleagues
• Ability to set priorities and exercise sound judgment in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to understand, interpret, explain, and apply rules and policies applicable to areas of responsibility
• Strong organizational and verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to prepare clear, accurate, and concise correspondence, records, reports, and other documents
• Expertise with Microsoft Office software applications, especially Excel
• Preferably proficiency with the Jenzabar database

Student Population:
Fall 2024 enrollment of 3,801, including 2,288 traditional undergraduate students and 1,513 graduate and nontraditional students. The student/faculty ratio is 10:1, with a 17% minority population representing all 50 states and 19 countries.

Academics:
The University of Mary boasts 294 faculty members, offering 60+ bachelor's degree programs, 21 master’s degree programs, 5 doctoral degree programs, and 16 pre-professional programs.

Campus Facilities & Surrounding Community: a main campus with 866,000 square feet of facilities, 13 residence halls & apartment buildings, a research library…