Financial Controller

Description

Summary:

Provide leadership and oversight for the institution’s financial accounting and reporting functions, ensuring accuracy, integrity, and compliance with applicable standards and regulations. Manage and strengthen internal financial controls and risk management practices and coordinate all internal and external audits. Oversee purchasing, student accounts, and cash management to ensure efficient, timely, and well-controlled financial operations. Collaborate across the institution to support sound financial stewardship, operational effectiveness, and informed decision-making.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Oversee daily Business Office operations, including Student Accounts, Purchasing and Payroll.
• Manage daily cash operations and banking relationships.
• Record, forecast, and budget quarterly accruals.
• Prepare and maintain financial and budget schedules.
• Oversee campus budgets and financial reporting.
• Maintain the general ledger and perform account reconciliations.
• Prepare financial statements in accordance with GAAP (FASB and, as applicable, GASB).
• Oversee daily operation and integrity of accounting and financial systems.
• Coordinate annual required audits, including financial and support of retirement plan audits.
• Manage federal funds accounting, compliance, and drawdowns.
• Prepare and oversee required annual reports and tax filings, including but not limited to IRS Forms 990 and 990-T, CT-13, Charitable Annuities NYS Insurance Report, IPEDS, U.S. News & World Report, FISAP, and Middle States reporting.
• Ensure assigned responsibilities are completed in compliance with institutional policies and regulatory requirements.
• Manage, evaluate, and develop staffing needs within the Business and Finance Offices.

Essential Employee Designation:

This position has been designated as essential at Keuka College. This means that, in the event of significant incidents or major events, you may be required to be on-site or take a leadership role in supporting your respective area to ensure our operations continue smoothly.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Some additional evening and weekend hours will be required.
• Occasional lifting up to 25 lbs.

Employee Benefits Overview

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental and Vision Coverage
• Financial assistance for educational expenses, enabling professional growth and development.
• Protection for you and your loved ones with employer-sponsored life insurance coverage.
• Generous paid time off includes holidays and sick leave to ensure work-life balance.
• Retirement benefits eligible on the 1st day of employment and matching contributions after 6 months of employment
• Access to confidential counseling and support services for mental health and personal matters through the Employee Assistance Program

This job description provides an overview of the responsibilities and requirements for this position. Specific duties and responsibilities may evolve to meet the organization’s needs.

Requirements

• BS in Accounting, or another related field, CPA certification preferred.
• Seven to ten (7–10) years of progressively responsible experience in finance, accounting, or fiscal management, preferably in higher education, nonprofit, or public-sector organizations
• Advanced computer proficiency required in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and ERP. Knowledge of the Ellucian Colleague system and Axiom Budget software is a plus.
• Supervisory and leadership experience, including managing staff and cross-functional collaboration.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial data and communicate findings clearly to non-financial audiences.
• High level of integrity and professionalism, with the ability to handle confidential and sensitive financial information.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent planning and organizational skills.

Work with Purpose at Keuka College

Keuka College, founded in 1890, is a liberal arts-based, private college located in the heart of New York’s beautiful Finger Lakes. Our picturesque lakeside campus is more than just a place to work – it’s a vibrant, close-knit environment where collaboration, innovation, and personal growth are valued as much as academic excellence.

Why Keuka College?

Mission-Driven: Join us in empowering students to lead, serve, and succeed. Our founder Dr. George Harvey Ball’s mission to “bring strength to our nation and help humanity” is still at the heart of what we do.

Experiential Learning: Our immersive approach to education means you’ll work in an environment that values hands-on experience and innovation.

Core Values:

• Create a Strong Sense of Community: Foster a caring, respectful, and diverse environment, emphasizing integrity, leadership, and personal connections.
• Prioritize the Success of Each and Every Student: Focus on student achievement through innovative education, holistic support, and experiential learning.
• Make Thoughtful Use of Resources, Including Ourselves: Collaborate efficiently to maximize resources and empower leadership while maintaining a balanced, goal-oriented environment.
• Engage with Curiosity: Embrace questions, innovation, and lifelong learning with an open and positive mindset.
• Open Doors to Opportunities: Promote equality and provide accessible programs that help individuals achieve their full potential.

Professional Growth: We support your development through training, leadership programs, and a commitment to helping you succeed.

Work-Life Balance: Flexible schedules, wellness programs, and a focus on your well-being allow you to thrive at work and at home.

Welcoming Community: We embrace a sense of belonging and create an environment where everyone feels at home.

About the Community

Keuka Park, NY, offers stunning lakeside living and is nestled along the shores of Keuka Lake. Known for its vineyards and scenic outdoor adventures, the area offers everything from hiking and fishing to wine tasting. The nearby village of Penn Yan, less than 10 minutes away, is celebrated for its small-town charm, offering parks, shops, cafes, and plenty of local attractions. Life in the Keuka region moves at a relaxed pace, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty and simple joys of lakeside living.

Join Us and Make a Difference
If you’re looking for meaningful work in a community that values your contributions, explore career opportunities at Keuka College and be part of something “small on purpose”.