Controller at Gateway Technical College

CPA Required

The Controller is responsible for the overall management of the functional areas of accounting. The Controller will provide monthly, quarterly and annual financial statements, financial forecasts as required and provide financial support to College staff. This position interprets and ensures compliance with all College policies and procedures regarding finance and business practices in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The Controller also establishes procedures, departmental guidelines and regulatory requirements applicable to the work and is responsible for developing, implementing, and administering accounting, financial and business programs to efficiently serve both internal and external client needs while maintaining federal, state and institutionally mandated financial compliance. Work includes providing managerial oversight to accounting staff in the receipt, processing, auditing, and reporting of fiscal and accounting activities.

This position has supervisory responsibilities and reports to the CFO/Vice President, Finance and Administration.

Financial Reporting & Compliance

• Prepare key financial reports, including the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), Uniform Financial Accounting System (UFAS) report, and monthly financial statements
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, the WTCS Financial Accounting Manual (FAM), and other statutory requirements

• Manage the full year-end close process and lead coordination of the annual financial audit with external auditors
  

• Perform and/or review monthly cash reconciliations
• Manage all aspects of the month-end close process to ensure accuracy and completeness

• Prepare and submit periodic cost allocation reports and other financial data required by the WTCS state office
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of WTCS reporting requirements to ensure full compliance
• Ensure timely and accurate submission of required external financial reports, including IPEDS and HLC

• Implement and maintain financial systems and tools that support effective accounting operations
• Establish, monitor, and enforce internal controls to protect college assets and ensure data integrity

• Ensure the college remains in compliance with Payment Card Industry (PCI) standards
• Monitor and update financial procedures to reflect changes in applicable regulations

• Perform effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment with shifting priorities and frequent interruptions.
• Manage multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Respond to team and leadership inquiries promptly, even while managing time-sensitive projects.
• Lead and support the year-end close process, ensuring deadlines are met without compromising daily operations.
• Maintain a strong orientation toward reviewing, improving, and optimizing existing accounting and financial processes.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned, demonstrating flexibility and a proactive approach.

Required:

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Designation
• 5 years of accounting experience in a financial management role

Other required knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong problem solving and analytical skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to work effectively with other departments as well as senior management
• Strong leadership skills

DIVISION/LOCATION: Business Office/Kenosha
COMP GRADE: 33
FLSA DESIGNATION: Exempt
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available.
• Employment is contingent upon an acceptable background
• Flexibility is needed to accommodate day, evening and weekend student & business needs