Controller

We are looking for an experienced Controller to join a higher education organization in Alabama. This contract opportunity is ideal for a finance leader who can provide steady oversight during a leadership transition while strengthening accounting operations and reporting accuracy. The role calls for a hands-on, detail-oriented individual with deep controllership expertise, sound judgment, and the ability to support both day-to-day finance activities and long-term financial stewardship.

Responsibilities:
• Direct the organization’s accounting operations, ensuring financial activities are recorded accurately and in accordance with established standards and policies.
• Lead the month-end close process by coordinating timelines, reviewing entries, and delivering timely financial results to leadership.
• Prepare and oversee internal and external financial reporting, maintaining clarity, accuracy, and compliance across all submissions.
• Provide continuity and financial leadership during the transition related to the departure of the current Controller, helping maintain stability across the function.
• Review account reconciliations, journal entries, and supporting documentation to strengthen internal controls and reduce reporting risk.
• Partner with institutional leaders to analyze financial performance, explain variances, and support informed business decisions.
• Support audits and regulatory reviews by organizing documentation, responding to inquiries, and ensuring readiness throughout the process.
• Identify opportunities to improve accounting workflows, close procedures, and reporting practices to increase efficiency and consistency.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in a Controller or senior accounting leadership role with strong command of core controllership responsibilities.
• Demonstrated expertise in financial reporting and the ability to produce accurate, decision-ready financial statements.
• Hands-on experience managing and improving month-end close processes in a complex organization.
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles, internal controls, and financial compliance requirements.
• Ability to guide teams and stakeholders through a leadership transition with professionalism and stability.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with close attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with executive leadership and cross-functional partners.

Compensation

$67.29-$77.91 Hourly

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