Description

McPherson College seeks a strategic, detail-oriented Controller to provide leadership and oversight of the College’s financial operations. This role serves as a key partner to the Vice President of Finance, ensuring fiscal integrity, regulatory compliance, and strong internal controls while supporting the College’s mission and long-term sustainability.

The Controller oversees the general ledger and daily operations of the Business Office, directs and develops the financial services team, and leads institutional accounting, reporting, audit, and compliance functions. Responsibilities include preparing monthly financial and budget reports, monitoring cash flow, overseeing purchasing, payables, receivables, payroll, and fixed assets, and ensuring accurate and timely financial close processes. The Controller plays a central role in the annual budget process, external audits, Form 990 and 5500 preparation, Uniform Guidance compliance, and the maintenance of sound financial policies and procedures.

This position combines technical accounting expertise with strong leadership, cross-campus collaboration, and a commitment to continuous improvement in financial systems and practices. The Controller will regularly interact with faculty, staff, students, vendors, auditors, and external partners, and is expected to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance required; CPA strongly preferred

Minimum of 6 years of progressively responsible accounting and management experience, preferably in higher education or a similar not-for-profit environment

Strong knowledge of GAAP, not-for-profit and higher education accounting standards, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations

Proven leadership ability with experience supervising, mentoring, and developing staff

Exceptional organizational, analytical, and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and translate complex financial data into actionable insight

Proficiency with Microsoft Office and enterprise financial systems (e.g., Jenzabar, Banner, PeopleSoft, SAP), preferably in an academic setting.

Our ideal candidate is a collaborative and trusted financial leader who brings both precision and perspective to the role. They thrive in a mission-driven environment, value transparency and accuracy, and build strong working relationships across the institution. They are comfortable balancing day-to-day operational oversight with long-term strategic financial planning.