If you have any questions about the position or our application process, reach out to us at recruiting-u@smith.edu.

Controller's OfficeJob Description

Job Summary

Act as a leader on the Controller’s office management team that supports all accounting functions and fiscal operations of Smith. This includes all general accounting processes, financial close, internal and external reporting, audit, tax and compliance filings. Supervise current operations and advance improvements for a better user experience, accuracy and access to information, and financial efficiency. Supervise team members, serve as a mentor in accounting principles and processes, and as a resource to the Smith community.

Take appropriate actions to support a diverse workforce and participates in the College's efforts to create a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment.

Essential Functions

General Accounting & Reporting (60%)

Provide leadership in complex not-for-profit accounting processes. Supervise the preparation of the year-end financial statements, Form 990, Form 990T and related tax and compliance filings. Monitor changes in Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and assess their application to Smith. Serve as a leader for the annual audit and manage the preparation of materials. Lead the Uniform Guidance audit engagement. Prepare supporting schedules including planning, directing and coordinating the activities of several departments. Supervise monthly and quarterly closing processes. Analyze, interpret, approve, and compile financial data. Produce interim financial statements and related financial reports for review with senior management.

Financial Operations Management (15%)

In partnership with the Controller, provide leadership for Smith’s financial operation. . Support enhancements in procurement, accounting, and reporting processes for construction and capital activities. Lead improvement initiatives to leverage new technology and create efficiencies in process. Evaluate and document processes and internal control.

Partner in all areas of accounting and process including: investments, gifts, payroll, accounts payable, inventory, internal allocations, budget reporting and cashier functions. Manage staff, evaluate performance; set goals, priorities and standards. Enforce, assess and enhance policies related to the financial operations of the College. Collaborate regularly with other campus offices including student financial services, budget, information technology, human resources, development and others.

Sponsored Research (15%)

Supervise the accounting and reporting for Smith’s sponsored research, private, and internal grants. Implement processes that support both operational efficiency and adherence to new accounting standards. Review grant documents and serve as Smith’s “Certifying Official”. Oversee compliance, related audits, and required reporting. Lead the evaluation and update of Smith’s indirect cost recovery rate.

Compliance & Policy Administration (5%)

Responsible for ensuring the college remains current with compliance, accounting and regulatory changes. Design college-wide policies related to the financial operations of the College. Interpret and provide guidance to members of the community on current financial policies. Lead business process changes to better utilize and integrate technology.

Other Functions

Other Duties (5%)

Other duties as assigned.

All employees are expected to participate in the College's efforts to create a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment.

Minimum Qualifications (knowledge, skills, education, experience, certifications, licenses)

Bachelor’s degree plus a minimum of 10 years relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education/experience. Supervisory experience required.

Experience working with diverse backgrounds.

Preferred Qualifications

CPA designation or advanced accounting degree preferred. A demonstrated progression of responsibilities and experience in not-for-profit accounting. Higher education / Workday experience preferred.

Skills

Strong technical accounting skills and knowledge of accounting standards. Excellent customer service, leadership and management skills. Experience working with complex ERP system. Willingness to embrace and lead change and improvement. Excellent organizational, interpersonal and communication skills; strong attention to detail and accuracy; strong quantitative skills; good judgment, discretion and ability to maintain confidentiality; ability to interact with diverse constituencies; ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously; ability to lead a team and work independently; competent project management skills: strong computer skills, advanced MS Excel and proficiency with relational database technology.

Additional Information

For the care and safety of our community, Smith College requires that all employees be vaccinated as a condition of employment and as such, the incumbent will be required to be immunized against COVID-19 on or before their first day of employment. Proof of vaccination status will be required. Individuals may seek medical or religious exemption with HR, but must do so prior to their arrival.

Please attach BOTH a current resume and a cover letter in order for your application to be considered for this position . Be sure you have provided all attachments before submitting your application. You will NOT be able to attach additional files after you have hit the Submit button.

Review of applications will begin

March 23, 2023

Compensation Grade:

Grade E

Position Type:

Regular

About Smith College

Located in Northampton, MA, Smith College is one of the largest women’s colleges in the country and is dedicated to excellence in teaching and research across the liberal arts. A faculty of outstanding scholars interact with students in small classes, as advisors, and through student-faculty research projects. The College is a member of the Five College Consortium with Amherst, Hampshire and Mt. Holyoke Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Students cross-enroll and faculty cross-teach across the Five Colleges.

Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 151B, it is the policy of Smith College to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of employment, including the application process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact our recruiting team at recruiting-u@smith.edu.

Diversity and a culture of inclusion among students, staff, faculty, and administration are crucial to the mission and values of Smith College. We are an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, age, color, religions, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression or veteran status in the recruitment and employment of faculty and staff, and the operation of any of its programs and activities, as specified by all applicable laws and regulations. Women, minorities, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.