Assistant Controller

San Francisco Bay University (SFBU), a nonprofit, WASC‑accredited university located in Fremont, California, seeks an innovative and experienced Assistant Controller. SFBU’s mission is to offer inclusive, innovative, and inspirational education for lifelong careers, and its vision is to set the national model of higher education in service of the common good. Students come first at SFBU. The university prioritizes student needs, fosters engagement among students, faculty, and staff, and is committed to providing affordable quality education with a deep commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice. The Assistant Controller provides day‑to‑day oversight of accounting and business operations in accordance with GAAP, FASB, and best practices for non‑profit higher education. The role supervises the accounting team and is responsible for accounts payable, accounts receivable, student financial services, cash management, audit, and tax. The Assistant Controller supports the Controller and CFO with budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis, partnering with university leadership in developing and implementing financial strategies that support SFBU’s mission and strategic objectives. Key Responsibilities Oversee and direct business and accounting activities; provide technical accounting guidance; and ensure compliance with GAAP, applicable law and regulation, SFBU policies and guidelines, and best practices. Manage all areas of accounting and financial reporting, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, student financial services, procurement, fixed assets, and cash management. Manage the university’s financial systems, including the general ledger and Sage Intacct ERP. Manage Sage Intacct integrations with systems for student accounts, financial aid, expense management, and banking and financial institutions. Oversee student accounts management in Salesforce and integration with the general ledger system. Oversee all daily accounting operations; review and approve all journal entries; manage monthly, quarterly, and year‑end close processes. Maintain accounting policies, procedures, internal controls, and business processes to support compliant, transparent, and efficient execution of the university’s business. Provide user documentation and training to foster a culture of compliance and a strong internal control environment. Prepare financial statements and reports, including monthly, quarterly, and annual statements, for internal and external audiences, including university leadership; board of directors; local, state, and federal government agencies; accreditors; and others as may be required or appropriate. Oversee the financial administration of federal, state, and private grants, ensuring compliance with specific grantor requirements. Prepare financial reports for grantors and donors as required. Monitor the university’s cash flow and investments, working with the Controller and CFO to ensure adequate liquidity is available to meet obligations. Supervise, mentor, and evaluate professional accounting staff. Provide training and guidance to campus departments on financial policies, budget monitoring, and system usage. Participate in professional development to maintain current knowledge and skills in all areas of responsibility. Perform other duties as assigned. Essential Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (required). 8+ years of progressive experience in accounting (or 5+ years with a CPA credential). In‑depth experience with GAAP accounting standards and technical accounting. Excellent communication skills, including the ability to convey technical and financial concepts to general audiences. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and Google Workspace (mail, calendars, docs). Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial concepts to both financial and non‑financial audiences. Experience supervising and mentoring a finance/accounting team, ensuring high performance and professional development. Preferred Qualifications Certified Public Accountant (CPA) strongly preferred. Other value‑add credentials include Certified Management Accounting credential and/or a master’s degree in finance, accounting, business, or related field. 2+ years of accounting experience in higher education or a non‑profit setting; working knowledge of FASB standards and non‑profit higher education finance. 2+ years of management experience. Experience with Sage Intacct and/or Salesforce, particularly with implementations and integrations. Experience with policy, procedure, and business process redesign. Experience with student accounts, including Title IV compliance. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Leadership, change management, and collaborative problem‑solving skills. Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess financial data, identify trends, and make recommendations. Strong presentation skills for both internal and external stakeholders. Knowledge of financial management software and systems. Ability to develop clear, user‑friendly financial policies and procedures that promote a strong internal control environment. Entrepreneurial mindset and willingness to contribute to SFBU’s growth. Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment. Cultural competence and ability to work effectively with diverse constituencies in a diverse community. Physical Demands Lifting limits of up to 20 lbs, bending, sitting, standing, walking to parts of the campus within a ¼ mile radius, and long periods of computer use. The employee is occasionally required to sit or stand for long periods. Job duties are typically performed in an office environment. Salary and Position Details Competitive salary: $110,000‑$125,000. Full‑time, exempt, located in Fremont, CA. Retirement plan: Participation in the university’s retirement plan. Professional development: Opportunities for ongoing training, professional development, and conference attendance. Paid time off: Generous leave policies, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays. Business casual work attire. This position description is not intended to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities required by the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time, with or without notice. SFBU is an Equal Opportunity / Affimative Action Employer: SFBU is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. SFBU does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex,, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. In accordance with federal and state disability laws, San Francisco Bay University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you require assistance during the application or interview process, please contact SFBU Human Resources at View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr