The Associate Vice President & Controller (AVP) serves as the chief accounting officer (Controller) and is responsible for the leadership and operational management of the universitys core accounting financial reporting and business services functions. Reporting to the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer the AVP/Controller directs activities that ensure the integrity transparency and compliance of the financial operations.

The position oversees Financial Accounting and Reporting Payroll Accounts Payable Student Accounts/Bursar and Purchasing. The role is responsible for developing and maintaining effective systems of internal controls ensuring compliance with accounting standards and regulatory requirements facilitating audits and providing timely and accurate financial information to university leadership and external stakeholders.

The AVP/Controller advances a culture of proactive service innovation and financial stewardship while fostering strong partnerships with academic research and administrative units. As a visible university leader the AVP/Controller drives adoption of modern systems and processes to improve efficiency and data-informed decision-making strengthens constituent engagement and ensures compliance with federal state and institutional standards and policies. This position is critical in positioning the university for financial sustainability operational excellence and long-range success.

Essential Functions:

• Provide leadership direction and oversight for financial accounting and reporting Accounts Payable Payroll Student Accounts (Bursar) and Purchasing.
• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting and relevant federal and state regulations.
• Manage the annual audit process serving as the primary liaison with external auditors.
• Maintain and enforce strong internal controls and policies to safeguard University assets.
• Oversee monthly quarterly and year-end closing processes.
• Prepare and analyze financial statements reports and forecasts for senior leadership and the Board of Trustees.
• Supervise mentor and evaluate accounting staff promoting a culture of excellence accountability and continuous improvement.
• Serve as the lead administrator for the accounting and finance modules within the Workday ERP system; collaborate with IT and other departments to enhance and optimize system usage.
• Lead efforts to improve efficiency through redesign automation and technology integration.
• Collaborate with departments across campus to ensure clear communication and effective financial practices.
• Stay current with changes in higher education finance accounting standards and applicable laws/regulations.

Education:

Requires a relevant Bachelors preferred.

Licenses/Certifications/Requirements:

CPA preferred.

Experience:

Requires a minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible accounting/finance experience with at least three years in a leadership or controller- level role preferably in a higher education environment. Deep knowledge of accounting principles practices and regulations (including GAAP GASB/FASB). Strong leadership managerial and team-building skills. Excellent analytical organizational and decision-making abilities. Superior communication and interpersonal skills and able to effectively communicate complex financial information to non-financial audiences. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other financial reporting degree or CPA preferred.

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position you must complete the on-line application and attach a resume a cover letter and a list of three professional references to your profile. Please include contact information including email addresses for your professional references.

Application Deadline:

Review of applicants will begin on November 11 2025 and continue until the position is filled.

Compensation:

The compensation for this position is commensurate with experience.

Union Affiliation (if applicable):

For assistance with your application or attachments please contact the Human Resources representative listed:

Background Check Statement

The University of Akron is committed to providing a safe environment for all students and employees. The University endeavors to protect the health welfare and safety of all students employees and visitors on our campus. As such all offers of employment with The University of Akron are contingent upon verification of credentials and satisfactory completion of a criminal background check. Some positions may require additional credit investigation and a pre-employment driving record search.

Non-Discrimination Statement

The University of Akron is an Equal Education and Employment Institution. View our Non-Discrimination Statement for more information. Equal Opportunity Employer including disability/veterans.

State of Residence Statement

It is the expectation of the University of Akron that allwork performed as an employee ofthe University will be performed in Ohio.