Assistant Controller

Assistant Controller

Job Description

The Assistant Controller is a leadership role, responsible for supporting the financial management and reporting functions of Sarah Lawrence College. This position works in close partnership with the Colleges Controller in overseeing accounting operations, conducting financial analysis, and ensuring regulatory compliance. The Assistant Controller produces accurate financial records, prepares financial statements, and provides leadership in cash management. This role also contributes to strategic financial planning, implements process improvement initiatives, and supports the institutions annual audit.

Essential Duties SummaryEssential Functions

• Assist the Controller with management of all accounting operations.
• Monitor and analyze daily cash activities, ensuring effective liquidity management and funding strategies.
• Manage relationships with banking partners, ensuring seamless cash flow operations and optimizing funding options.
• Prepare and file Form 990 and other required reports, ensuring compliance with IRS and institutional regulations.
• Track and reconcile endowment activities to maintain accurate records of fund performance and distributions.
• Prepare, review, and post journal entries for institutional transactions with appropriate supporting documentation.
• Support the month end and quarter end close process.
• Provide essential support during the annual financial audit by coordinating documentation and responding to auditor inquiries.
• Ensure timely submission of regulatory filings and institutional surveys, including IPEDS and FISAP.
• Offer guidance and support to accounting staff, fostering a collaborative and professional working environment.
• Proactively identify opportunities for improved financial operations, and lead initiatives to enhance internal processes, improve transparency and strengthen internal controls.
• Stay current with new financial technologies and integrate them into existing processes.
• Collaborate with the IT department to maintain accurate financial records and system processes.
• Partner with colleagues across campus, including Student Accounts, Campus Safety, Information Technology and Advancement to support operational needs.

Additional Responsibilities

• Identify opportunities for cross-training to ensure coverage and maintain high service standards within the department.
• Assist the Office of Student Accounts during peak periods to ensure smooth financial operations.
• When needed, provide backup coverage of the duties of the Controller.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Required QualificationsRequired Qualifications

• Bachelors degree required, preferably in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 - 7 years of experience in accounting or financial management, preferably in higher education or nonprofit environments.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret financial data and develop actionable insights.
• Experience managing cash flow and banking operations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and familiarity with financial software systems.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for collaborating with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to handle confidential information with professionalism and discretion.
• Ability to work occasional nights and weekends as required.

Physical and Cognitive Requirements

• Primarily sedentary, involving extended periods of sitting and significant computer use.
• Frequent verbal and written communication required.
• Capacity to organize and synthesize detailed information.
• Occasional walking/standing required.

Preferred QualificationsPreferred Qualifications

• CPA certification or equivalent financial qualification.
• Familiarity with endowment accounting and fund management practices.

Posting Number: S00421P Open Date: Close Date: Open Until Filled: Yes Salary: $100K - $110K Special Instructions to Applicants To apply, visit https://slc.peopleadmin.com/postings/2422 jeid-d643c3df42310e4bb9d6e3d12e503103