Controller

About the Opportunity

The Controller provides leadership and oversight of the Authority's accounting operations, internal controls, and financial reporting functions. The position exists to ensure the integrity, accuracy, consistency, and transparency of the Authority's financial records and systems while supporting effective stewardship of public and investor funds.

Reporting to the CFO / COO and operating between the Deputy Director and senior accounting staff, the Controller exercises judgment in fiscal administration, accounting policy interpretation, regulatory compliance, and operational oversight. The role serves as a key technical and managerial resource, ensuring that accounting activities are aligned with GAAP, GASB standards, applicable state and federal requirements, bond covenants, and internal financial policies.

The Controller leads the execution of monthly, quarterly, and annual accounting and reporting processes; supports the preparation of audited financial statements; evaluates and implements new accounting standards; and maintains a strong internal control environment. The position also plays a critical role in complex bond accounting and investor reporting, provides financial analysis to support management decision-making, and promotes continuous improvement, scalability, and consistency across accounting operations.

This position is expected to work on-site at least three days per week and may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement, consistent with System Office policy. North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA) employees are generally required to reside in North Carolina, within a 2-hour commuting distance of their assigned duty station.

About the North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority

The North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA), an agency of the State of North Carolina, is authorized by the General Assembly to plan, finance and administer student financial assistance programs of a statewide or inter-institutional nature. It serves students attending public and private two- and four-year colleges and universities in North Carolina, as well as families of students attending nonpublic K-12 schools.

About the Team

The Financial Services Division manages the Authority's financial functions, program review oversight, and mail and scanning processes.

Minimum Education, Experience, and Skills

Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related discipline. At least ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in accounting or financial management, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Demonstrated experience providing work directions, supervision, or managerial oversight of professional accounting staff is required.

Required Competencies

• Expert knowledge of GAAP, GASB, and applicable state and federal accounting rules and regulations.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory experience.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• High ethical standards and commitment to fiscal integrity and public accountability.
• Ability to work collaboratively with internal leadership, external partners, auditors, trustees, and investors.
• Proficiency with enterprise financial systems and Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience applying data analytics concepts and tools to analyze financial data, identify trends, support reporting accuracy, and inform decision-making.

Preferred Education, Experience, and Skills

Equal Employment Opportunity and Other Information

The UNC System Office (includes PBS NC, NCSEAA, and NC Arboretum) is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.

The UNC System Office (includes PBS NC, NCSEAA, and NC Arboretum) is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

To claim veteran's preference, all eligible persons must indicate their eligibility as requested on the application. A DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, may be required later in the selection process.

The UNC System Office (includes PBS NC, NCSEAA, and NC Arboretum) participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

Human Resources Contact Information

Applicants needing assistance with the application process are asked to contact : recruiter@northcarolina.edu.