Controller

Job Description

Job Description

Missouri Valley College seeks an energetic Controller to provide strategic leadership and oversight of Missouri institution's financial operations. This position is responsible for ensuring accurate financial reporting, maintaining strong internal controls, overseeing accounting functions, and supporting long-term financial sustainability. The Controller works collaboratively with the Vice President of Business and Finance and campus leadership to advance the College’s mission through sound fiscal management, compliance, and service-oriented support for departments across campus.

Primary Responsibilities

• Direct all accounting and HR operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, fixed assets, payroll accounting, grants accounting, and cash management.
• Prepare, analyze, and present timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), federal and state regulations, and higher-education accounting standards.
• Coordinate and prepare year-end audit schedules; serve as primary liaison to external auditors.

Budgeting & Forecasting

• Support the VP of Business and Finance in developing the annual operating and capital budgets.
• Provide financial modeling, forecasting, and trend analysis to guide decision-making.
• Monitor budget performance and provide periodic variance reporting to campus leaders.

Compliance & Internal Controls

• Develop, implement, and maintain effective internal controls and financial policies.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state regulatory requirements, including IRS, U.S. Department of Education, and grant-specific guidelines.
• Oversee proper accounting treatment for restricted funds, endowment activity, and donor-designated contributions.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Supervise and mentor accounting staff, fostering a culture of accuracy, accountability, and professional development.
• Collaborate with academic and administrative departments to support financial processes and improve service delivery.
• Partner with the Office of Financial Aid to support federal financial aid compliance, Title IV requirements, and reconciliation processes.

Operational Oversight

• Manage cash flow, banking activities, and investment accounting.
• Oversee implementation and maintenance of financial systems and technology.
• Evaluate and enhance accounting procedures to increase efficiency and accuracy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive accounting experience.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit/higher-education accounting practices.
• Demonstrated experience preparing financial statements and leading audits.
• Proven leadership, supervisory, and communication skills.

Preferred

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Master’s degree in Accounting/Finance.
• Experience in higher education, nonprofit organizations, or fund accounting.
• Familiarity with ERP systems.

Additional Information

As a pre-condition of employment, the applicant must be authorized to work in the United States. Employment at MVC is contingent upon satisfactory completion of background check.

Missouri Valley College is an Equal Opportunity Employer and committed to a diverse and inclusive environment. Missouri Valley College does not discriminate on the grounds of color, race, sex, religion, marital status, disability, national origin, veteran’s status, age, or sexual orientation. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. All eligible candidates are encouraged to apply.