Controller, Finance & Banking, Accounting Manager

About Us:

Located in Georgetown, Texas, Southwestern University is an independent, four-year undergraduate institution offers a top-ranked integrated arts and sciences curriculum that incorporates the humanities, fine arts, social sciences, and natural sciences.

At Southwestern University, we are committed to fostering an environment where every individual feels respected, valued, and empowered. We believe that a thriving community is built on the strength of varying perspectives and experiences, and we strive to create an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding. Our actions are guided by a commitment to fairness, openness, and the belief that our differences are what make us stronger as a whole.

Southwestern University has an immediate opening for a Controller. This position will report to the Associate Vice President for Finance and Accounting. The Controller is responsible for the operation of the central accounting and financial control systems for the University. This is a full-time, 12-month, exempt position eligible for our comprehensive benefits program.

Supervision & Departmental Oversight

• Supervise accounting staff, including oversight of cash, endowment, grant funds, restricted accounts, designated accounts, agency accounts, and plant project accounting.
• Oversee purchasing and accounts payable operations, including SU credit card programs, and supervise associated staff.
• Oversee accounts receivable operations and supervise associated staff.

Accounting Operations & Controls

• Perform semi‑weekly review of all check runs and e‑checks.
• Prepare and approve journal entries as needed, ensuring proper segregation of duties.
• Maintain lease records and prepare related accounting entries.
• Oversee tracking of gift cards to SU students and employees.
• Oversee study abroad program accounting.
• Set up new accounts.

Cash & Payment Management

• Manage and monitor daily cash balances in operating accounts.
• Ensure timely processing of daily tuition ACH batches, annuity payments, and gift payments.
• Submit and maintain annuity payments.
• Submit wire information for secondary SU approval.
• Review and approve all payments over $1,000.
• Submit online vendor payments as needed (e.g., BCBS, JP Morgan).

Compliance, Reporting & Audits

• Ensure compliance with government and private grant requirements, including financial reporting.
• Review grant reports and proposal budgets prior to submission.
• Prepare required federal, state, and agency reports.
• Prepare monthly gift reconciliations and maintain audit documentation.
• Conduct the annual workers’ compensation audit.
• Review and prepare year‑end pledge working papers in collaboration with the University Relations division.

Systems Oversight

• Oversee fixed asset software (FAS) and fixed‑asset accounting processes.
• Serve as the primary contact for resolving health services payment issues in the Medicat system.
• Oversee Concur software for travel expenses and credit card charges.
• Maintain and update content on the Business Office website as needed.

Process Integrity & Internal Controls

• Assist in establishing and overseeing coordinated systems to ensure the integrity, accountability, and accuracy of financial and operational activities, including reporting and internal controls.

• Answer accounting‑related inquiries from faculty and staff.
• Assist the Associate Vice President for Finance & Accounting and serve as backup in their absence.
• Conduct special analyses and projects as requested.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree or BBA in Accounting.
• Minimum of five years (5) of progressively responsible hands‑on experience in accounting or finance, with three years (3) supervisory experience.
• Possess strong accounting and data analysis skills and astute problem‑solving ability.
• Demonstrated strong understanding in budgeting, project accounting and financial record keeping.
• Demonstrated advanced Excel and word processing software skills as well as Google suite products.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, including a strong work ethic.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to…