JOB SUMMARY: The Controller manages the Finance office and reports to the Vice President of Finance, Treasurer and CFO. The position is responsible for all month-end and year-end accounting activities, including the preparation of the monthly financial statements and supporting documentation. The Controller works closely with the College's external auditors to facilitate the annual financial audit, tax return preparation and the related reports . The position is responsible for ensuring accurate accounting and reporting of fixed assets, including providing guidance, tracking and reporting on capital projects. The Controller oversees the accounting and reporting of endowments and investment, supports budget and forecast creation by providing insight into the actual financial activity and is responsible for the recruitment, retention and management of all department staff.
How to apply: Continue here or visit https://gustavus.edu/jobs/ to complete the online application and submit a resume and cover letter. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Anticipated start date = Summer 2026
Provide leadership for all Finance Office functions, including general accounting, payroll, fixed assets, endowment tracking, accounts payable, and tax return preparation.
Maintain the integrity of the general ledger and chart of accounts; deliver timely and accurate financial reporting to department heads, senior leadership, the Audit Committee, and external stakeholders, in compliance with GAAP.
Ensure timely preparation and submission of government filings, including IRS Forms 990 and 990T, indirect cost recovery calculations, monthly sales tax returns, annual 1099 forms, and other regulatory reports.
Oversee the accuracy and reporting of investment and restricted fund activity. Lead the year-end financial and government audit processes; serve as the primary liaison with external auditors managing the follow-up and corrective actions.
Evaluate and enforce effective internal controls and financial procedures to mitigate risk and ensure compliance.
Monitor cash flow ensuring adequate reserves and the optimal investment of idle funds.
Serve as a strategic financial advisor and active member on campus committees, task forces, and ad hoc working groups.
Ensure compliance with IRS regulations, reporting and institutional financial policies.
Foster a culture of excellent customer service and collaboration between the Finance Office and departments across campus.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Prerequisites
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's Degree in accounting, CPA designation
7-10 years of progressive and relevant experience
Proven experience as controller or similar leadership positions
Sound knowledge of GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) and accounting laws and regulations
Proven leadership in managing automated accounting systems and a strong understanding of current accounting and financial reporting standards (in higher education preferred)
Demonstrated commitment to organizational success, with advanced proficiency in spreadsheets and database applications
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Masters in Accounting, Finance or Business Administration
Management experience in higher education or public accounting
Experience in generating and filing accurate 990 and 990T tax returns
Gustavus offers competitive and comprehensive benefits which include:
Medical insurance (which includes access to Nice Healthcare) as well as dental, vision, and life insurance
Workplace accommodations for physical or mental health concerns
Onsite health services
Free parking, exercise classes, and use of library and athletic facilities
Paid parental leave
Employer contribution to retirement savings plan (after one year of employment)
Tuition scholarships for dependents
Tuition benefit plan for employees and spouse
13 paid Holidays + generous PTO plan
Gustavus Adolphus College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status in its education or employment programs or activities.
Gustavus Adolphus College is one of the nation's leading private liberal arts colleges serving approximately 1,800 students. The College aspires to be a community of persons from diverse backgrounds who respect and affirm the dignity of all people. Known for its strong science, writing, music, athletics, study-away, and service-learning programs, Gustavus is located on a scenic 340-acre hill in St. Peter, Minnesota only one hour southwest of the Twin Cities.
Gustavus Adolphus College seeks employees who are committed to and will actively contribute to our efforts to celebrate cultural and intellectual richness and be resolute in advancing inclusion and equity. The Gustavus Acts strategic plan renews our commitment to equip students to lead purposeful lives, and to act on the great challenges of our time by diversifying and expanding the Gustavus community and delivering a distinctive and integrated liberal arts education. We are committed to fostering a community that embodies the value of a liberal arts education rooted in heritage and pluralism. We engage in this work at a coeducational, private, Lutheran (ELCA), residential, national liberal arts college of 2200 students.