Associate Dean Of Finance Operations

BARGAINING UNIT: MEA Administrator Level VI pending classification

STARTING SALARY RANGE: $61208 - $79863

DEPARTMENT: Finance

REPORTS TO: Dean of Finance

BENEFITS: 100% employer paid health dental and life insurance for employees (spouse/domestic partner/dependent coverage also available) vision insurance choice of Maine Public Employees Retirement System or TIAA CREF in lieu of social security generous vacation/personal/sick time allowances 13 paid holidays professional development and free tuition within the MCCS for employees spouse and dependents. SMCC summary of benefits

POSITION SUMMARY: The Associate Dean of Finance Operations serves as a key operational leader within the Finance division responsible for overseeing the day-to-day accounting functions financial processes and staff management that ensure the accuracy integrity and efficiency of the Colleges financial operations. Reporting to the Dean of Finance this role translates strategic priorities into effective operational practices strengthens internal controls and ensures compliance with all regulatory and audit requirements. This position plays a critical role in advancing the Colleges strategic priorities by ensuring financial systems and processes support student success operational excellence and long-term institutional sustainability.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Financial Operations & Accounting Oversight

Oversee all core accounting functions including general ledger reconciliations accounts payable accounts receivable and cash management. Ensure timely and accurate month-end and year-end close processes. Maintain the integrity of financial data and ensure compliance with applicable regulations policies and accounting standards. Lead preparation for audits and serve as primary liaison for external auditors. Monitor and strengthen internal controls to mitigate risk and ensure accountability. Oversee management of restricted funds grants and designated accounts.

• Systems Reporting & Process Improvement

Lead optimization and effective use of financial systems including ERP platforms and reporting tools. Identify process inefficiencies and implement improvements to increase accuracy and efficiency. Ensure timely access to financial data and reporting to support institutional decision making. Collaborate with internal stakeholders to align financial operations with broader institutional needs.

• Strategic & Operational Support

Partner with the Dean of Finance to implement strategic financial initiatives. Provide analysis reporting and operational insights to support planning and resource allocation. Support budget development and monitoring processes through accurate financial data and reporting. Serve as a key operational leader in the absence of the Dean as appropriate.

• People Leadership & Team Management

Supervise and lead finance and accounting staff establishing clear expectations workflows and accountability. Build and maintain comprehensive standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and continuity. Support staff development training and cross-functional knowledge sharing. Foster a collaborative service-oriented culture within the finance team.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Masters degree in Accounting Finance Business Administration or a closely related field. Demonstrated experience managing staff and leading operational teams. Strong knowledge of accounting principles financial reporting and internal controls.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Minimum 7-10 years of experience in accounting or financial operations
• 7-10 years of progressively responsible experience in accounting financial operations or related leadership roles preferred
• Experience in higher education government or other complex organizational environments
• Experience with enterprise financial systems (ERP) reporting tools and process improvement initiatives

WHY WORK AT SMCC:

SMCC offers meaningful work in a mission-driven environment where employees are valued for their expertise commitment and care for students. SMCC employees benefit from a collegial workplace opportunities for professional growth and the chance to make a direct impact on students lives and Maines workforce.

ABOUT SMCC:

SMCC is Maines largest community college and a member of the Maine Community College System. SMCC is dedicated to providing accessible affordable and high-quality education that prepares students for careers transfer and lifelong learning.

MISSION VISSION & STRATEGICE ANCHORS:

SMCC is guided by a student-ready philosophy and a commitment to equity access and excellence. Our work is grounded in three strategic anchors:

• Students - Supporting access success completion and well-being
• People - Investing in a supportive inclusive and engaged workforce
• Community Strengthening partnerships and responding to regional workforce and community needs

RECOVERY FRIENDLY WORKPLACE

SMCC is proud to be a Recovery Friendly Workplace. We are committed to fostering an inclusive supportive environment that values the unique experience and contributions of individuals from all walks of life. At SMCC we believe in empowering all members of our community to thrive and succeed in both their professional and personal journey

EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY:In compliance with federal law all persons hired will berequiredto verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.Currently SMCC is unable to sponsor or assume sponsorship of an employment visa.

THINKING ABOUT APPLYING

Research shows that people from historically excluded communities tend to apply to jobs only when they check every box in theposting. If youre currently reading this and hesitating to apply for that reason we encourage you to go for it! Let us know how your lived experience and passion set you apart.

SMCC is an Equal Opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive and non-discriminatory environment for all employees. We provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. For more information please contact .

APPLICATION PROCESS: Review of applications will begin May 5 2026 and will continue until the position is filled. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter resume and a list of three professional references.

Apply Here

Southern Maine Community College

Attention: Human Resources

2 Fort Road South Portland ME 04106

POSITION SUMMARY: The Associate Dean of Finance Operations serves as a key operational leader within the Finance division responsible for overseeing the day-to-day accounting functions financial processes and staff management that ensure the accuracy integrity and efficiency of the Colleges financial operations. Reporting to the Dean of Finance this role translates strategic priorities into effective operational practices strengthens internal controls and ensures compliance with all regulatory and audit requirements. This position plays a critical role in advancing the Colleges strategic priorities by ensuring financial systems and processes support student success operational excellence and long-term institutional sustainability.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Financial Operations & Accounting Oversight

Oversee all core accounting functions including general ledger reconciliations accounts payable accounts receivable and cash management. Ensure timely and accurate month-end and year-end close processes. Maintain the integrity of financial data and ensure compliance with applicable regulations policies and accounting standards. Lead preparation for audits and serve as primary liaison for external auditors. Monitor and strengthen internal controls to mitigate risk and ensure accountability. Oversee management of restricted funds grants and designated accounts.

• Systems Reporting & Process Improvement

Lead optimization and effective use of financial systems including ERP platforms and reporting tools. Identify process inefficiencies and implement improvements to increase accuracy and efficiency. Ensure timely access to financial data and reporting to support institutional decision making. Collaborate with internal stakeholders to align financial operations with broader institutional needs.

• Strategic & Operational Support

Partner with the Dean of Finance to implement strategic financial initiatives. Provide analysis reporting and operational insights to support planning and resource allocation. Support budget development and monitoring processes through accurate financial data and reporting. Serve as a key operational leader in the absence of the Dean as appropriate.

• People Leadership & Team Management

Supervise and lead finance and accounting staff establishing clear expectations workflows and accountability. Build and maintain comprehensive standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and continuity. Support staff development training and cross-functional knowledge sharing. Foster a collaborative service-oriented culture within the finance team.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Masters degree in Accounting Finance Business Administration or a closely related field. Demonstrated experience managing staff and leading operational teams. Strong knowledge of accounting principles financial reporting and internal controls.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Minimum 7-10 years of experience in accounting or financial operations
• 7-10 years of progressively responsible experience in accounting financial operations or related leadership roles preferred
• Experience in higher education government or other complex organizational environments
• Experience with enterprise financial systems (ERP) reporting tools and process improvement initiatives