Description

The Associate Controller will report directly to the Associate Vice President and University Controller. The Associate Controller will be responsible for upholding FAMU's commitment to excellence.

 
In addition, the Associate Controller will be expected to:

Oversee the preparation and review of the University's comprehensive financial statements, including all accompanying notes and management discussion and analysis; Ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with relevant accounting standards (GASB) and institutional policies; Coordinate with various departments to gather required financial data and provide guidance on proper documentation and reporting procedures;

Supervise staff involved in the financial reporting process, conduct quality assurance reviews, and present finalized statements to senior leadership and external auditors;
Direct the preparation and submission of special reports related to accounting and financial data for the university, including financial analysis, and compliance documentation; and analyze financial results, identify trends, and communicate findings to university leadership.   

Develop, implement, and maintain internal controls to safeguard university assets and ensure adherence to financial policies; Collaborate with legal and compliance teams to address any audit findings or regulatory concerns; Manage the accounting and financial oversight of university construction projects funded by PECO, Capital Improvement Trust Fund, or bond issuances; Monitor project budgets, review expenditures, and ensure proper allocation of funds in accordance with grant and bond requirements; Lead the Accounting Principles Subcommittee for ICOFA and other Accounting technical workgroups, facilitating collaboration across departments to address complex accounting issues and ensure consistent application of principles; Develop agendas, coordinate meetings, and oversee the implementation of committee recommendations; and assist the Controller with the university's overall accounting operations, including supervision of accounts payable, payroll, and general ledger functions.   

Manage payroll operations including timely and accurate payroll outputs, payroll liability accounts, and payroll reporting; Manage payroll tax fillings; Monitor and ensure compliance with IRS regulations and deadlines related to payroll taxation; Establish and maintain effective internal controls, ensure timely month-end and year-end closings, and oversee the reconciliation of all financial accounts; Serve as the primary liaison between the university and external auditors, regulatory agencies, and financial institutions; Provide leadership in developing and implementing financial policies, procedures, and systems to support institutional goals and compliance requirements; Mentor and train accounting staff, foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement, and support university leadership in strategic financial planning; and provide leadership for the implementation of Workday Financials and offer technical accounting support to the campus community by organizing regular meetings and workgroups.

Requirements

A bachelor's or master's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or closely related field is required. 

CPA certification is strongly preferred.

Minimum of six years of progressively responsible experience demonstrating expertise in financial accounting, reporting, and management.

Possesses comprehensive knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and regulations, with the ability to interpret and apply them effectively in a complex organizational setting.

Experience in PeopleSoft or Workday is preferred.

Deep understanding of university policies, procedures, and governance structures, and can represent the institution effectively in designated areas.

Upholds the highest standards of honesty, integrity, and ethical conduct in all professional endeavors.

Provides strategic, policy-oriented leadership with a proactive and innovative approach to problem-solving and decision-making.

Communicates effectively across diverse audiences, demonstrating diplomacy, conflict resolution, and collaborative leadership.

Cultivates personal and team effectiveness by promoting innovation, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement.