Assistant Controller

Assistant Controller

We are now accepting applications for a qualified Assistant Controller at Belmont University.

Employment Type

Staff

Internal Job Category

Exempt (Staff)
Full-Time

Department

Finance and Accounting

Hours

37.5

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

Position Summary

The Assistant Controller supports the Controller in managing the university’s accounting operations, financial reporting, internal controls, and audit processes. This role provides leadership over day-to-day accounting functions while ensuring compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), federal and state regulations, and institutional policies. The Assistant Controller plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the university’s financial records and serves as a key liaison to internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP for not-for-profit institutions.
• Support the annual external audit, including preparation of financial statement footnotes, schedules, and audit workpapers.
• Oversee general ledger operations, including journal entries, account reconciliations, and month-end and year-end close processes.
• Ensure proper accounting and reporting for donor-restricted funds, endowments, scholarships, and other university funds.
• Monitor net asset classifications and ensure accurate releases from restriction.
• Maintain and enhance internal controls over financial reporting and operational processes.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for auditors and respond to audit inquiries and findings.
• Supervise, mentor, and develop professional accounting staff.
• Support financial systems, including ERP maintenance, chart of accounts updates, and process improvements.
• Collaborate with campus partners including Budget, Payroll, Human Resources, Advancement, and Sponsored Programs.
• Develop, document, and maintain accounting policies and procedures.
• Assist with regulatory, compliance, and survey reporting as required.

Reporting Structure

The Assistant Controller reports to the AVP for Financial Operations & University Controller and supervises professional accounting staff. The role works closely with senior finance leadership and campus stakeholders to support the university’s financial operations.

Required Qualifications:

Belmont University seeks to attract and retain highly qualified faculty and staff who will support our mission and vision. As a Christ-centered and student-focused community, we aim to:

• Form diverse leaders of character;
• Equip people to solve the world’s complex problems through teaching, research and service;
• And be radical champions for helping people and communities flourish.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Five to eight years of progressive accounting experience.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, preferably within higher education or not-for-profit environments.
• Experience with financial statement preparation, audit coordination, and month-end close.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or CPA-eligible.
• Experience in higher education, fund accounting, or donor-restricted accounting.
• Supervisory or team leadership experience.
• Experience with university ERP systems such as Banner, Workday, or Oracle.

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to translate technical accounting concepts into practical guidance.
• Collaborative, service-oriented mindset.
• Ability to remain calm and effective during audit and close cycles.

Required Education

Required: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. Preferred: Master's in Accounting, Finance or related field Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Required Experience

• Five to eight years of progressive accounting experience. • Strong knowledge of GAAP, preferably within higher education or not-for-profit environments. • Experience with financial statement preparation, audit coordination, and month-end close. • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines. Preferred: • Experience in higher education, fund accounting, or donor-restricted accounting. • Supervisory or team leadership experience. • Experience with university ERP systems such as Banner, Workday, or Oracle.

The selected candidate will be required to complete a background check satisfactory to the University.

Belmont University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.