Controller

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced Controller to lead core accounting operations for our client in Central Kentucky. This role oversees financial reporting, cash management, compliance, and internal controls while partnering with senior leadership to support sound fiscal decision-making. The ideal candidate brings strong technical accounting expertise, a collaborative leadership style, and the ability to guide both daily operations and long-range financial priorities.

Responsibilities:

• Direct the institution’s accounting activities across general ledger operations, fixed assets, grants, accounts payable, and treasury functions to maintain accurate and timely financial records.

• Lead, coach, and support accounting team members by setting expectations, developing talent, and promoting consistent performance and accountability.

• Monitor short-term and long-range cash activity, evaluate liquidity needs, and recommend effective use of available operating funds to optimize financial position.

• Produce clear financial and operational reporting on cash balances, investment performance, receivables, and other key indicators for leadership review.

• Analyze general ledger accounts and financial trends to identify drivers affecting fiscal health and provide insight for management decisions.

• Oversee the continued enhancement and effective use of financial systems, collaborating with finance, human resources, payroll, and information technology teams as needed.

• Manage the preparation for internal and external audits, coordinate audit activity, and help ensure adherence to federal and state requirements as well as institutional policies.

• Supervise year-end close activities, review balance sheet reconciliations, and direct the preparation of annual financial statements, audit work papers, and required state reporting.

• Strengthen internal control practices by developing, implementing, and monitoring procedures that protect assets and preserve the integrity of financial data.

• Serve as a key advisor to finance leadership and maintain productive relationships with banks, auditors, government agencies, and campus departments on accounting matters.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from a regionally accredited institution is required; a master’s degree is preferred.
• At least seven years of progressively responsible experience in accounting, financial reporting, and internal controls, ideally within a complex organization.
• Strong knowledge of applicable accounting standards, grant compliance requirements, and regulatory reporting expectations.
• Demonstrated ability to prepare and oversee month-end and year-end close processes, financial statements, and account reconciliations.
• Experience with budgeting, forecasting, ad hoc financial analysis, and reporting for leadership audiences.
• Excellent analytical, written, and verbal communication skills with the ability to solve problems effectively and present financial information clearly.
• Proven leadership capability with a collaborative, adaptable, and service-oriented approach to managing teams and cross-functional partnerships.