Director of Financial Services (University Controller)

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Closing Date:

Type of Position:
Senior Administration - Student Affairs

Workstudy Position:

No
Job Type:
Regular

Work Shift:

Day Shift (United States of America)

Sponsorship Available:

No
Institution Name:
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is a metropolitan research university that provides an accessible, quality education through flexible learning and unparalleled internship opportunities. At UA Little Rock, we prepare our more than 8,900 students to be innovators and responsible leaders in their fields. Committed to its metropolitan research university mission, UA Little Rock is a driving force in Little Rock's thriving cultural community and a major component of the city and state's growing profile as a regional leader in research, technology transfer, economic development, and job creation.

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Department:
Finance & Admin

Department's Website:

Summary of Job Duties:
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock seeks a collaborative, analytical, and service-oriented finance leader to serve as Director of Financial Services (University Controller). Reporting to the Associate Vice Chancellor for Finance, this position provides oversight for the university's accounting, payroll, accounts payable, fixed assets, and financial reporting functions. The Director ensures fiscal integrity, compliance with state and federal regulations, and strong internal controls while advancing a culture of operational excellence and customer service.

This role plays a pivotal part in strengthening the university's financial health, supporting data-driven decision-making, and contributing to UA Little Rock's mission of access, innovation, and student success. This position is governed by state and federal laws, and agency/institution policy.
Qualifications:

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related business discipline.
• At least four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in accounting or financial management.

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration (MBA).
• Four (4) years of progressive management and direct supervision experience.
• Experience in public higher education or state government finance.
• Familiarity with Workday ERP System.
• Knowledge of Arkansas fiscal and accounting procedures.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSBILITIES:

• Provide leadership and direction for general accounting, accounts payable, payroll, and financial reporting operations.
• Oversee the preparation of accurate and timely financial statements, state and system reports, and audit schedules. Additionally, responsible for the preparation, coordination, and analysis of the Arkansas Department of Higher Education, Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, and the University of Arkansas System reports.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, GASB, state accounting standards, and University of Arkansas System policies.
• Develop and implement sound financial policies, internal controls, and process improvements that enhance accuracy and efficiency.
• Manage indirect cost allocation processes and financial data analysis for internal and external audits.
• Supervise and mentor professional accounting and support staff, fostering teamwork, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Partner with university leadership to provide consultative financial analysis supporting budget and strategic initiatives.
• Maintain compliance with IRS reporting (W-2s, 1099s, payroll tax filings) and other regulatory reporting requirements.
• Oversee and reconcile general ledger activities, including restricted, construction, and investment funds.
• Serve as a campus resource and subject-matter expert on accounting standards, financial systems, and fiscal procedures.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of current and future standards, methodology, applicable best practices, and relevant professional pronouncements.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS

• Establish and maintain effective work relationships with students, faculty, staff, and the public;
• Provide administrative guidance within area of responsibility, providing direct training and supervision as needed;
• Strong supervisor and dispute resolution skills;
• Knowledge of supervisor practices and techniques;
• Strong time management and planning skills;
• Apply budgetary and fiscal planning techniques within financial constraints;
• Organize work effectively, conceptualize and prioritize objectives, and exercise independent judgment based on an understanding of organizational policies and activities;
• Integrate resources, policies, and information for the determination of procedures, solutions, and other outcomes;
• Communicate with a diverse group of employees;
• Work in a technological environment demonstrating proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, specifically Word, Excel, and Access;
• Prepare, present, and review oral and written information and documents;
• Interpret and apply state and agency/institution policies and procedures governing each area;
• Analyze and reconcile complex financial information in a computerized accounting environment;
• Work under pressure and meet deadlines while handling multiple priorities;
• Strategic financial analysis and reporting;
• Advanced knowledge of accounting principles and compliance standards;
• Strong leadership and staff development skills;
• Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly and persuasively;
• Proficiency with enterprise financial systems and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Access);
• Commitment to integrity, accuracy, collaboration, and service excellence.

Additional Information:

Salary Information:

Commensurate with Education and Experience

Required Documents to Apply:

Cover Letter/Letter of Application, List of three Professional References (name, email, business title), Resume

Optional Documents:

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Recruitment Contact Information:

Lacie Barkley
Operations Manager
View email address on click.appcast.io; View phone number on click.appcast.io

All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Site


Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.

Pre-employment Screening Requirements:
Criminal Background Check, Financial Credit Check, Sex Offender Registry

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is committed to providing a safe campus community. We conduct background checks for applicants being considered for employment. Background checks include a criminal background check and a sex offender registry check. For certain positions, there may also be a financial (credit) background check, a Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) check, and/or drug screening. Required checks are identified in the position listing. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication or adverse financial history information alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background check information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of any category or status protected by law, including age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, or pregnancy. Questions or concerns about the application of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, may be sent to the University's Title IX Coordinator and to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.

Constant Physical Activity:
Manipulate items with fingers, including keyboarding, Sitting, Talking, Walking
Frequent Physical Activity:
Manipulate items with fingers, including keyboarding, Sitting, Talking, Walking
Occasional Physical Activity:
Lifting, Stooping
Benefits Eligible:
Yes