Controller

The Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) seeks a highly skilled and detail-oriented Controller to lead our financial operations and ensure the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of all financial reporting processes. This position will play a pivotal role in overseeing financial statements, budgeting, audits, grants management, tax compliance, and internal controls. The Controller reports to the Vice President for Financial Affairs and work closely with senior leadership, providing strategic financial oversight and operational leadership to ensure the College’s financial health and success.

 Responsibilities include, but not are limited to:

1.    Oversee monthly financial statements, balance sheet reconciliations, and journal entries. Manage the financial closing process to ensure timely, accurate reporting for internal and external stakeholders.

2.     Collaborate with the Advancement Office to ensure proper accounting for restricted and endowed gifts. Oversee post-award compliance for grants and manage funds in accordance with donor restrictions.

3.     Lead the preparation for external audits, ensuring accurate documentation and resolving discrepancies with auditors. Ensure compliance with all audit requirements and assist in preparing financial reports.

4.     Assist with the preparation of the College’s 990 tax return and other federal, state, and local tax filings. Ensure compliance with payroll, sales taxes, and all other relevant tax regulations.

5.     Assist in the College's budgeting process by preparing financial reports, forecasts, and budget analysis. Monitor budget performance throughout the year and identify variances.

6.     Manage and optimize finance systems and databases (e.g., Jenzabar and Razor’s Edge). Ensure smooth integration with other systems and streamline reporting processes.

7.      Oversee the accounts payable function, ensuring timely and accurate invoice processing and adherence to College purchasing policies.

8.     Supervise, provide leadership, training, and coaching to the Bursar, Student Accounts and Financial Aid Assistant, and Accounting Specialists.

9.     Develop and maintain robust internal controls across all financial operations, ensuring policies for cash handling, billing, and financial aid disbursements are followed.

10.  Monitor the College’s cash flow, manage bank account reconciliations, and assist with student account inquiries and payments.

11.    Coordinate with IT and other departments to manage online payment systems and ensure integration with the College’s accounting software.

Required Qualifications and Experience:

·        Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required. CPA or MBA preferred.

·        A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in financial management, with a preference for at least 3 years in a leadership role.

·        Demonstrated experience in higher education or non-profit accounting, including knowledge of fund accounting and nonprofit financial reporting.

·        Proven experience in managing budgets, financial planning, and financial reporting.

·        Strong knowledge of financial regulations and compliance standards.

·        Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

·        Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse group of individuals at all levels of the organization.

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:

·        Expertise in accounting software, particularly Jenzabar, Razor’s Edge, and Microsoft Excel. Experience with Jenzabar, InfoMaker, and SQL strongly preferred.

·        Strong knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and financial reporting standards.

·        Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders.

·        High level of integrity and professionalism, with the ability to maintain confidentiality and act ethically in all situations.

·        Strategic thinking, with the ability to align financial practices with institutional goals.

·        Strong leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and manage a team.

·        Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.

   Application Process and Deadline:

Qualified applicants should submit the following information in one (1) pdf document via email to: controllersearch_group@miad.edu

ü  A letter of interest/cover letter

ü        A resume

ü      Three (3) professional reference names and contact information.

Applications will be reviewed until the position has been filled. 

MIAD offers an attractive benefits package, including health, vision, and dental insurance.

All final candidates must successfully complete reference and background checks.  Only pending charges or convictions that are substantially related to the position being considered will be taken into account during the employment decision-making process.  Conviction records that are not substantially related to the position or to campus safety will not be considered in hiring decisions.