Controller

Controller Position at The University of Mary

The University of Mary located at 7500 University Drive, Bismarck ND is seeking an experienced professional to serve in Financial Affairs. The Controller is a senior financial leader responsible for overseeing the university's accounting operations, financial reporting, compliance, and internal controls. This role ensures the integrity of financial systems and supports strategic decision-making through accurate and timely financial data. The Controller plays a critical role in maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency across the institution.

Benefits Include :

• Retirement benefits with an 8% match
• Medical, Dental, Vision and supplemental insurance
• Free or discounted tuition for employees and dependents
• Discounted meal plan
• Discounted membership at the campus Wellness Center

Essential Roles / Responsibilities :

Financial Reporting & Compliance :

Accounting Operations :

Policy & Procedure Development :

Technology & Systems :

Budgeting & Forecasting :

Education Requirements :

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, and a Master's or CPA required. Minimum of 710 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in higher education or nonprofit sector.

Qualifications :

Represents the Office of Financial Affairs with integrity and a high level of professionalism. Strong knowledge of GAAP, fund accounting, and federal compliance requirements. Proficiency in financial systems (e.g., Ellucian, Workday, Banner) and Microsoft Excel. Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills. Maintains absolute confidentiality and discretion in all matters related to the Office of Financial Affairs and associated areas of responsibility. Experience with grant accounting and restricted funds. Familiarity with endowment management and donor reporting. Ability to thrive in a mission-driven, collaborative environment.

High degree of tact, discretion, and diplomacy in dealing with sensitive situations and individuals. Ability to work independently and with a team of colleagues. Ability to set priorities and exercise sound judgment in a fast-paced environment. Ability to understand, interpret, explain, and apply rules and policies applicable to areas of responsibility. Strong organizational and verbal and written communication skills. Ability to prepare clear, accurate, and concise correspondence, records, reports, and other documents. Expertise with Microsoft Office software applications, especially Excel. Preferably proficiency with the Jenzabar database.

University Profile :

Student Population : Fall 2024 enrollment of 3,801, including 2,288 traditional undergraduate students and 1,513 graduate and nontraditional students. The student / faculty ratio is 10 : 1, with a 17% minority population representing all 50 states and 19 countries. Academics : The University of Mary boasts 294 faculty members, offering 60+ bachelor's degree programs, 21 master's degree programs, 5 doctoral degree programs, and 16 pre-professional programs. Campus Facilities & Surrounding Community : a main campus with 866,000 square feet of facilities, 13 residence halls & apartment buildings, a research library with 50,000+ volumes, a 24 / 7 campus restaurant, coffee shops, and a pub, along with 9 satellite locations throughout the United States and abroad. Bismarck / Mandan is an intimate metropolitan area with a population of approximately 120,000, exemplary family and parish life, friendly neighborhoods, a low crime rate, clean air, and excellent schools, and enjoyable recreational and cultural facilities : 75+ miles of hiking trails, 62 parks, 7 golf courses, and four seasons of recreational opportunities on the Missouri River.

Our Mission and Identity :

Mission : The University of Mary serves the religious, academic, and cultural needs of the people in this region and beyond, rooted in the commitment of the Sisters of Annunciation Monastery. We are Christian, Catholic, and Benedictine. Christian Identity : We strive to accomplish our mission in faithfulness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, valuing each human person as created in the image and likeness of God. We aim to be agents of cultural renewal, advocating for justice and peace. Catholic Identity : Drawing life from the heart of the Church, we integrate spiritual and philosophical approaches to enduring questions of human life, fostering dialogue between Faith and Reason; we are joyfully and faithfully Catholic. Benedictine Identity : Inspired by the Benedictine Sisters who founded the university, we cherish a heritage of prayer, community, and service, modeling virtues of warm hospitality, balance, and generosity.

Equal Opportunity Employer