Director of Foundation Finance & Accounting

Job Title:
Director of Foundation Finance & Accounting

Location:
Savannah State Recruiting Loc

Regular/Temporary:
Regular

Full/Part Time:
Full-Time

Job

Savannah State University established in 1890, is the first public historically black college or university in the state of Georgia and the first institution of higher learning in the city of Savannah. The university’s students select majors from five colleges:

• Business Administration
• Education
• Engineering and Computing
• Media, Arts, and Communication
• Science and Humanities

The campus is by far the most picturesque in the state of Georgia. The moss‑laden sweeping oak trees, expansive marsh and historic architecture create a resplendent yet tranquil atmosphere. Beneath the beauty and splendor is a vibrant residential campus bursting at the seams with the vim and vigor of quality collegiate life: relevant academic majors, engaging lectures, cutting‑edge research, quality student‑faculty engagement and a nurturing environment.

The Director of Foundation Accounting is responsible for the strategic oversight and day‑to‑day management of all accounting functions for the Savannah State University Foundation. This role is housed within the Division of University Advancement and ensures the integrity of financial reporting, compliance with nonprofit accounting standards, and effective stewardship of foundation assets, including endowments and agency funds. The Director serves as a key financial partner to the Executive Director and leadership team, supporting sound fiscal management and donor accountability.

NOTE:

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required eligibility verification form upon hire. This position does not offer sponsorship for employment visas. This role is a position of trust.

Financial Management & Reporting

• Oversee all accounting operations, including general ledger, financial reporting, and account reconciliation.
• Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements to Foundation leadership and Board of Directors.
• Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and nonprofit accounting regulations.
• Coordinate and manage the annual audit process and serve as primary liaison with external auditors.
• Process payments for the Community Development, LLC and Real Estate Ventures, LLC.

Endowment & Investment Accounting

• Manage accounting and reporting for endowed funds, including tracking corpus, earnings, and spending allocations.
• Ensure compliance with donor intent, Foundation policies, and applicable regulations (e.g., Uniform Prudent Management of Institutional Funds Act (UPMIFA)).
• Work closely with investment advisors to reconcile investment activity and performance reporting.

Agency & Restricted Fund Accounting

• Oversee accounting and reporting for agency accounts and restricted funds.
• Ensure proper fund classification, tracking, and reporting in accordance with donor restrictions and institutional policies.
• Partner with campus departments to provide accurate financial reporting and guidance on fund usage.

Systems & Process Management

• Maintain and optimize accounting systems, with preference for experience in Blackbaud Financial Edge or similar nonprofit financial systems.
• Develop and implement internal controls and best practices to safeguard Foundation assets.
• Continuously assess and improve accounting processes for efficiency and compliance.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Supervise accounting staff and provide leadership, training, and performance management.
• Collaborate with Advancement, Finance, and University stakeholders to ensure alignment of financial practices.
• Support strategic initiatives and provide financial analysis to inform decision‑making.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive accounting experience, including nonprofit or foundation accounting.
• Minimum 3-5 years of management experience.
• Demonstrated experience managing endowments and restricted funds.
• Knowledge of nonprofit financial…