University of West Georgia - Associate Vice President and Controller

For best consideration, complete applications should be received before April 14, 2025.

Complete information is available on the Search Profile.

The UNIVERSITY OF WEST GEORGIA, with its main campus in Carrollton and centers in Newnan and Douglasville, seeks an experienced administrative leader to serve as ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT AND CONTROLLER. This is an outstanding opportunity for an experienced and accomplished financial officer with significant potential to influence, shape, and advance the mission of UWG.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Associate Vice President and Controller (AVP) is responsible for providing guidance and direction for accounting and financial matters of the University, including financial reporting, general accounting, accounts payable, public/private venture reporting, capital asset management, payroll, travel services, and other significant areas that may be added.

This administrator reports directly to the Vice President for Business and Finance (Chief Business Officer) and works closely in formulating and administering policy and procedures pertaining to all fiscal matters of the University, as well as supporting the programs and mission of the University.

The Associate Vice President assists in achieving and maintaining financial stability, advances the mission and academic priorities, and enables the University to conduct itself as a prudent steward of the resources entrusted to it for the benefit of the student body, faculty, staff, alumni, and community. The AVP is responsible for ensuring that financial reporting is accurate, timely, and compliant with all accounting standards, and serves as the primary contact for external and state auditors. This key leadership position also serves as a developmental role for those seeking to become a Chief Business Officer in the future. A relocation allowance is provided.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as a thought leader in support of the Chief Business Officer and the University executive leadership team to drive improved financial sustainability and performance of the University.
• Oversee the technical accounting and reporting areas, as well as the shared service center areas, to ensure timely reporting, appropriate cost-benefit internal controls, relevant key performance indicators and tracking, efficient value-added services, contemporary processes, and a strong client-focused approach.
• Deliver on financial reporting requirements to the University System of Georgia and University of West Georgia.
• Monitor, report, and support the University and its foundations on the use of private/public ventures to elevate the student experience.
• Manage the University’s operating cash and short-term investments, working closely with the Chief Business Officer to develop and enhance banking relationships.
• Provide overall leadership, supervision, and coaching to areas of responsibility, including the evaluation of performance in relation to strategic goals.
• Develop and maintain excellent working relationships with all departments through gaining an understanding of their purpose and objectives. Lead and/or support episodic strategic projects as needed.
• Ensure compliance with standard and best practices issued by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB), the American Institute of Certified Accountants (AICPA), the National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Department of Education (DOE), and other cognizant agencies.
• Meet all institutional, Board of Regents, state, and federal reporting requirements within areas of responsibility.
• Fulfill all other leadership responsibilities as assigned by Vice President for Business and Finance.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
• At least 10-12 years of progressively responsible management experience in accounting or financial service in a highly regulated environment, public sector, or college or university administration
• Strong leadership skills
• Demonstrated ability to work in and lead teams
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions
• Ability to speak and write effectively and make presentations

Preferred Qualifications

• A master’s degree from an accredited college or university in accounting or related field
• A Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) with 10 or more years in leading engaged, and high-performing teams in higher education
• Thorough understanding of GAAP and relevant FASB/GASB pronouncements
• Knowledge and understanding of university operations and governance

CARROLLTON, GEORGIA

Living in Carrollton, “The City of Dreams,” offers the advantages of city life with a small-town vibe. This progressive community with Southern flair offers plenty of shopping, restaurants, nightlife opportunities, and cultural events. Named a City of Excellence in Georgia and listed as one of the 50 Best Small Southern Towns, Carrollton is the cultural, educational, health care, and commercial center for the west Georgia region.

At the heart of Carrollton is its historic downtown and Adamson Square lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants. Each season offers unique local events and opportunities for year-round recreation. Outdoor activities abound through award-winning spaces, including an 18-mile paved walking and biking Greenbelt trail that encircles the city and passes through the UWG campus.

The city embraces the University’s students, faculty, and staff, and welcomes the diversity UWG brings to the community.

Invested in education with highly rated city and county K-12 systems, both city and county public school graduation rates are 90% and above and rank among the top in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.