Director - Financial Accounting & Reporting

Job Summary

Hawai`i Pacific University’s (HPU or the University) seeks a strategic, collaborative, and results-oriented leader to serve as Director of Financial Accounting and Reporting. Reporting to the AVP/Controller, the Director is responsible for ensuring the integrity of the University’s financial records, compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), nonprofit accounting standards, regulatory requirements and University policies.

This position provides leadership and oversight of the general ledger and financial reporting team, including management of the monthly and annual close processes, preparation of internal and external financial reports, coordination of annual external audits, and oversight of financial accounting areas, including, but not limited to, fund accounting, Investments, leases, and pledges/scholarships, amongst other areas.

The Director supports the AVP/Controller on accounting matters and promotes strong internal controls, operational efficiency, and financial stewardship in support of the University's mission.

This position is based out of our Waterfront Plaza offices in downtown Honolulu.

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance or related field.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license
• Minimum 6 years of progressive accounting experience including supervisory responsibilities.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP, nonprofit accounting and financial reporting
• Experience managing audits and working directly with external auditors
• Proficiency with financial systems, spreadsheets and reporting tools

• Experience in higher education, nonprofit, or other complex institutional environments

• Experience with Banner ERP or similar higher education financial systems.
• Knowledge of federal grant accounting and Uniform Guidance compliance.
• Experience preparing financial information for governing boards and executive leadership.

• Report to work obligations to support the department and may require work during HPU’s winter break, if necessary.
• Must meet training and background check qualifications and comply with the Minors on Campus policy.
• Upon hire, candidate must have reliable transportation to all HPU worksites and other locations as required by the position.
• Successful candidate will be able to work in an environment that utilize excellent time and stress management skills.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a fast past and rapidly changing environment.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in written and oral forms with executive, senior management, faculty, staff, managers, and external stakeholders.

• Direct and oversee the University’s general ledger accounting operations
• Oversee and monitor the accounting and reporting various accounting areas, including the accounting for restricted and unrestricted funds, pledges, grants and endowments, investments and leases, as well as other areas as assigned.
• Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes to ensure accuracy and timeliness
• Review and approve journal entries, account reconciliations, and analyses prepared by accounting team
• Develop, implement and maintain accounting policies, procedures and internal controls
• Ensure compliance with US GAAP, FASB standards, Uniform Guidance and nonprofit accounting requirements
• Monitor accounting activities to ensure proper classification and recording of financial transactions.

• Prepare and oversee the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports.
• Analyze financial results and provide meaningful variance analyses and financial insights to senior leadership.
• Coordinate the preparation of reports required by lenders, bondholders, regulatory agencies, and other external stakeholders.
• Support leadership with financial presentations and reporting to the Board of Trustees and Board committees.
• Ensure accurate reporting of net assets and compliance with donor restrictions.