Assistant Controller - Financial Reporting

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced financial reporting leader to support a university environment in Kingston, Rhode Island. This Long-term Contract position will oversee critical accounting operations, strengthen internal controls, and deliver accurate, timely financial information for institutional decision-making. The role requires a strong background in general ledger management, reconciliations, audit support, and financial policy interpretation within a complex organizational setting.

Responsibilities:
• Lead the development, upkeep, and review of core financial control processes to protect the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of accounting data.
• Guide team members and administrative staff in preparing, analyzing, and distributing financial reports across divisions, departments, and individual accounts.
• Partner with the budget function to prepare financial forecasts and planning insights for senior leadership.
• Oversee the Student Loan Office and ensure its financial activities are managed effectively and in compliance with established standards.
• Direct senior accounting staff responsible for fixed assets, depreciation activity, inventory tracking, and account reconciliation processes.
• Evaluate departmental operations for adherence to business and financial policies and recommend improvements where needed.
• Serve as a key advisor to the Controller on internal controls, financial policy application, and procedural compliance matters.
• Stay current on accounting and reporting guidance issued by standard-setting and industry organizations and assess its impact on financial statements and planning.
• Support month-end close activities and help maintain reliable general ledger records using systems such as PeopleSoft.• Demonstrated experience in financial reporting, general ledger oversight, and month-end close activities.
• Strong knowledge of account reconciliations, fixed asset accounting, and depreciation processes.
• Experience supporting financial statement audits and preparing accurate reporting documentation.
• Advanced Excel skills, including the ability to use formulas for analysis and reporting.
• Familiarity with PeopleSoft or comparable enterprise financial systems.
• Ability to interpret accounting guidance and apply financial policies in a complex organization.
• Experience leading accounting staff and coordinating workflow across multiple functions.