Controller

We are looking for an experienced Controller to provide financial leadership for a higher education environment in Greater New Haven, Connecticut. This Contract position will oversee core accounting operations, support accurate and timely financial reporting, and help maintain strong General Ledger compliance including audit and grant-related activities. The ideal candidate brings a hands-on approach to general ledger management, month-end close, and reconciliation work while effectively guiding accounting processes and collaborating with institutional stakeholders.

Responsibilities:

• Direct daily accounting activities, ensuring the general ledger remains accurate, complete, and aligned with financial reporting standards.

• Lead month-end and period-end close activities, including the preparation and review of journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules.

• Coordinate annual audit preparation by organizing documentation, responding to auditor requests, and helping maintain compliance with financial control requirements.

• Oversee cash application processes and monitor account activity to support accurate recording of receipts and timely resolution of discrepancies.

• Manage grant and endowment accounting functions, ensuring transactions are recorded appropriately and reporting obligations are met.

• Review financial data and account balances to identify variances, investigate issues, and recommend corrective actions when needed.

• Support the development and oversight of accounting staff or cross-functional finance activities, promoting consistent procedures and strong internal controls.

• Partner with internal departments to provide financial insight, improve reporting accuracy, and support the institution’s ongoing accounting close process.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience serving in a Controller or senior accounting leadership capacity in Higher Ed, Non-Profit or Healthcare.

• Strong background in general ledger oversight, journal entry preparation, reconciliations, and month-end close.

• Experience supporting annual financial audits and maintaining audit compliance standards.

• Working knowledge of grant accounting and endowment-related financial activity.

• Prior experience in higher education finance or accounting environments.

• Familiarity with cash application processes and broader accounting close procedures.

• Proficiency with Ellucian Colleague or similar higher education financial systems.

• Demonstrated ability to manage priorities, communicate clearly, and maintain accuracy in a deadline-driven setting.

Compensation

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