The Controller provides day-to-day oversight of accounting and business operations for San Francisco Bay University (SFBU) in keeping with GAAP, FASB, and best practices for non-profit institutions of higher education. The Controller supervises the accounting team and is responsible for accounting, accounts payable, accounts receivable, student financial services, cash management, audit, and tax. The controller supports the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) with budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis and partners the CFO and University leadership in developing and implementing financial strategies that support SFBU’s mission and strategic objectives.

 

Salary and Position Details: $130,000-$150,000, Full-time, exempt, located in Fremont, CA

 

Key Responsibilities

  • Oversee and direct business and accounting activities; provide technical accounting guidance; and ensure compliance with generally accepted accounting principles, applicable law and regulation, SFBU policies and guidelines, and best practices.
  • Manage all areas of accounting and financial reporting, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, student financial services, procurement, fixed assets, and cash management.
  • Establish, monitor, and enforce internal controls to safeguard the institution’s assets and ensure accurate financial reporting.
  • Manage the university’s financial systems, including the general ledger and Sage Intacct ERP. Manage Sage Intacct integrations with systems for student accounts, financial aid, payroll / HRIS, and banking and financial institutions.
  • Oversee all daily accounting operations; review and approve all journal entries; manage monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes.
  • Maintain, update, and implement accounting policies, procedures, internal controls, and business processes to support compliant, transparent, and efficient execution of the university’s business. Provide user documentation and training to foster a culture of compliance and a good internal control environment.
  • Prepare financial statements and reports, including monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, for internal and external audiences, including university leadership; board of directors; local, state, and federal government agencies; accreditors; and others as may be required or appropriate.
  • Monitor the university’s cash flow and investments, working with the CFO to ensure adequate liquidity is available to meet the university’s obligations.
  • Act as primary liaison for external financial, governmental, and other audits conducted annually or periodically. With the CFO, address findings and implement necessary changes.
  • Supervise and develop the finance and accounting team by determining key roles, recruiting and retaining top talent, and equipping the team with the resources to perform their jobs.
  • Participate in professional development to maintain current knowledge and skills in all areas of responsibility.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

 

 

Essential Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree, preferably in accounting or a related field.
  • 8+ years of progressive experience in accounting (or 5+ years with CPA credential)
  • Expertise in GAAP accounting standards and technical accounting.
  • Skill in leadership, change management, and collaborative problem-solving.
  • Skill in complex analytical thinking
  • Excellent communication skills, including communicating technical financial concepts and information to general audiences.
  • Knowledge of financial management software and systems.
  • Skill in developing financial policies and procedures that are clear, user-friendly, and promote a strong internal control environment.
  • Ability to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset and assume responsibility for contributing to SFBU’s growth.
  • Cultural competence and ability to work effectively with diverse constituencies in a diverse community.
  • Technical fluency with Microsoft Office Professional Suite and Google mail and calendaring programs.

 

Preferred Qualifications

  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA) strongly preferred
  • Other value-add credentials include Certified Management Accounting credential and/or master’s degree in finance, accounting, business, or related field
  • 2+ years accounting experience in a higher education setting; working knowledge of FASB standards and non-profit higher education finance
  • 2+ years of management experience
  • Experience with Sage Intacct and/or Salesforce, particularly experience with implementations and integrations
  • Experience with policy, procedure, and business process re-design
  • Experience with student accounts, including Title IV compliance

 

Physical Demands

  • Physical demands include lifting limits of up to 20 lbs, bending, sitting, standing, walking to parts of the Campus within a ¼ mile radius, and long periods of computer use.
  • The employee is occasionally required to sit or stand for long periods.

 

Work Environment

  • Job duties typically performed in an office environment
  • Business Casual

Benefits

  • Competitive Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications.

  • Health Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance. 

  • Retirement Plan: Participation in the university’s retirement plan.

  • Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing training, professional development, and conference attendance.

  • Paid Time Off: Generous leave policies, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

San Francisco Bay University is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We encourage candidates who will contribute to our mission of fostering a diverse and inclusive educational environment to apply.

Join us in our mission to provide innovative, inclusive, and transformative education and help us shape the future of higher education in the heart of Silicon Valley. We look forward to welcoming a passionate Therapist to our academic community.

SFBU is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer: SFBU is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. SFBU does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.