Controller

SUNY Niagara is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Controller to join our team. The Controller will work closely with and under the direction of the Vice President of Administration to oversee the College’s accounting operations. This position is responsible for the development, maintenance, and supervision of all financial activities, including budget preparation, financial analysis and reporting, general accounting control, accounting for grants, cash management, inventory control, payroll, travel management, and records management.

To excel in this role, the successful candidates must possess exceptional analytical skills to interpret financial data and provide strategic insights as well as advanced Excel skills for efficient data manipulation and financial modeling. The candidate should also possess strong organizational abilities to manage multiple projects and deadlines. Clear and effective communication skills are also crucial for presenting complex financial information to various stakeholders. Possessing a collaborative mindset, capable of working across departments and with senior management to achieve institutional goals is also important.

SUNY Niagara provides phenomenal benefits to our employees. Please visit https://www.niagaracc.suny.edu/hr/benefits to view our benefits offerings. Our exceptional work environment fosters growth and personal fulfillment. As an employee, you can expect:

Work-Life Balance: When employees can balance their work and personal lives, they are happier, more productive, and better positioned to support our students. At SUNY Niagara, generous paid time off, holiday, and leave policies make this possible. Our college closes for winter break from late December through early January and a week in mid-March for spring recess. In the summer, employees observe a four-day workweek, allowing them to enjoy all that Western New York offers.

Professional Growth: SUNY Niagara cares about employees’ professional advancement and development. You will have access to ongoing training, programs, and workshops. We support career growth and encourage employees to pursue further education.

Welcoming Culture: SUNY Niagara values the principles of equity, diversity, inclusion, and social justice as they create a sense of belonging for our students and employees. We foster a collaborative culture that respects and appreciates different perspectives, ideas, and backgrounds which contribute to the richness of our institution. We believe that our diverse, inclusive community enriches the experiences of students and employees alike.

Meaningful Work: At SUNY Niagara, your work will directly impact the lives of our students and the region we serve. Our college is for all who are passionate about teaching and focused on supporting students. Our small class sizes facilitate engagement. You will shape students’ futures, prepare them for successful careers, and empower them to contribute to society. Your dedication and expertise will propel students to achieve their educational goals.

Become part of an institution that values employees, positively impacts students’ lives, and invests in its community.

Typical Work Activities:

• Coordinate the preparation of the College budget and gives budget presentations as required during the budget cycle.
• Monitor the overall College budget throughout the fiscal year in accordance with approved budgetary allocations and ensures that internal controls are implemented and maintained.
• Recommend and advise the Vice President of Administration on proper internal financial control policies and procedures.
• Provide analysis, financial data, and statistical reports for operational and long-range planning.
• Prepare required and requested fiscal reports and financial statements such as Middle States reports, IPEDS, SUNY Budget Report, Annual Report, etc.
• Direct the College’s Payroll Department to ensure that payroll and all related tax reporting to Federal, State and Local Governments is processed timely and accurately. Responsible for the implementation, maintenance and supervision of payroll functions including developing internal payroll procedures.
• Facilitate and monitor the payroll bi-weekly and monthly reporting of the College’s pension and retirement accounts.
• Supervise and evaluate Accounting and Payroll staff to ensure that work assignments are completed correctly and efficiently. Responsible for training staff and ensure they are receiving professional development.
• Oversee the College’s property inventory control mechanisms and procedures.
• In concert with the Vice President of Administration, manage the College’s investment program and cash flow.
• Govern the College’s capital projects to ensure adherence to budget allocation.
• Coordinates the annual College Audit, participates in the development of audited financial statements, and ensures that all appropriate recommendations and concerns are properly addressed.
• Works with the Vice President of Administration to ensure that College policies and practices are in accordance with Federal, State, and Local (Niagara County) Government regulations, State University of New York (SUNY) policies and procedures, and Generally Accepted Accounting Principals (GAAP).
• Provides guidance and financial management advisement and counsel to the Grants Office regarding grant activities.
• Perform special projects and initiatives for the College as deemed necessary.
• Other duties as may be assigned by the Vice President of Administration.

Required Qualifications:

• 
  Bachelor’s degree in Accounting;
• Five (5) years of experience in financial management including budgeting, accounting, and financial analysis and reporting;
• Three (3) years supervisory experience;
• Experience using Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems;
• Experience using the Microsoft Office Suite applications;
• Advanced skills in Excel.

Desirable Qualifications:

• CPA certification;
• Master’s degree in Accounting, Business Administration or Public Policy and Administration;
• Three (3) years experience in a fund accounting financial administration environment, preferably in an educational setting;
• Experience with implementing new financial systems, particularly Banner;
• Financial management experience that includes cash management and payroll;
• Experience using ADP software.