Controller

DescriptionAbout Salem Academy and College

Salem Academy and College is the oldest continuously operating educational institution for girls and women in the country. Since 1772, the institution has engaged in transformational change to innovate women’s education. Founded with the mission of making education accessible to all, Salem has a rich 254-year-old history and a long-standing track record of educating students who are prepared to make a bold impact locally, nationally and globally through liberal arts education. Our graduates are committed to making the world a better, healthier and more equitable place. Salem College is the nation’s only liberal arts college exclusively dedicated to developing the next generation of health leaders.

Position Summary

The Controller is a senior financial leader responsible for directing the accounting and financial reporting functions of the Academy and College while supporting the strategic financial direction of the institution. Reporting to the Vice President for Finance/Chief Financial Officer, the Controller ensures the integrity of the institution's financial records, maintains strong internal controls, and provides accurate and timely financial information to support institutional decision-making.

This position provides leadership for the daily operations of the Controller’s Office and oversees accounting, financial reporting, treasury management, audits, tax compliance, grants accounting, and financial systems. The Controller partners with campus leaders to develop financial strategies that support the Academy and College's mission while ensuring compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), federal and state regulations, donor restrictions, and institutional policies.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The Controller will:

Provide leadership and oversight for all accounting functions of the institution, including:

General ledger
Accounts payable
Accounts receivable
Cash receipts
Payroll accounting
Fixed asset accounting
Capital asset accounting
Month-end and year-end close processes

Ensure the accuracy, completeness, and integrity of the institution's financial records while maintaining strong internal controls to safeguard institutional assets.
Prepare and oversee:

Monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements
Financial reports for senior leadership and the Board of Trustees
Budget-to-actual analyses
Cash flow reports
Financial forecasts and other management reports

Coordinate the annual external financial audit, Single Audit and preparation of financial statements while responding to auditor requests and implementing recommendations.
Assist the Vice President for Finance/CFO with:

Annual operating budget development
Capital budget preparation
Multi-year financial forecasting
Long-range financial planning
Financial modeling and institutional decision support

Oversee treasury management activities, including:

Cash management
Banking relationships
Investment accounting
Debt accounting
Cash flow forecasting

Ensure compliance with:

Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
Federal and state regulations
IRS reporting requirements
Donor restrictions
Grant requirements
Debt covenant reporting

Direct accounting and financial reporting for grants, endowments, restricted funds, and capital projects while ensuring compliance with funding requirements.
Develop, implement, and continuously improve financial policies, procedures, and internal controls that promote efficiency, accountability, and sound financial stewardship.
Provide leadership in the implementation, maintenance, and optimization of financial systems, accounting software, reporting tools, and ERP financial modules.
Supervise, coach, and develop accounting staff by providing leadership, performance management, mentoring, and professional development.
Partner with Human Resources regarding payroll accounting, employee benefits accounting, retirement reporting, and other employee-related financial matters.
Collaborate with budget managers and departmental leaders by providing financial guidance, budget monitoring, and analysis to support sound fiscal management.
Prepare financial analyses, presentations, and reports for executive leadership, Cabinet, Board committees, accreditation activities, and strategic initiatives.
Monitor changes in accounting standards, regulations, and higher education financial practices and recommend improvements to ensure ongoing compliance and operational effectiveness.
Serve on institutional committees and represent the Controller’s Office on cross-functional initiatives and strategic planning efforts.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Vice President for Finance /Chief Financial Officer.

QualificationsRequired Qualifications