Associate Vice President/Controller

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Job description

THE OPPORTUNITY

This position is responsible for directing the university’s financial reporting operations and serves as a key strategic partner in the university’s financial leadership team. The associate vice president/controller serves in the absence of the vice president for business and finance and plays a critical role in ensuring fiscal accountability, compliance, and operational excellence across all financial functions.

Search Prospectus

To learn more about the opportunity, download the prospectus by clicking here.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Reporting and Compliance

  • Prepares timely and accurate financial reports, including the annual financial report, the budgetary compliance report, IPEDS, the annual expenditure report, and other annual, quarterly, and monthly reports
  • Oversees the implementation of Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) pronouncements and ensures compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP)
  • Establishes and monitors internal controls, including the documentation of key processes, and monitoring to ensure compliance
  • Oversees timely reconciliation of general ledger accounts to ensure accuracy in financial reporting

Audit and Risk Management

  • Supervises audit coordination and document preparation for state, Board of Regents and internal audits
  • Coordinates with external auditors and manages audit findings resolution
  • Maintains comprehensive audit trails and documentation

Strategic Financial Management

  • Performs E&G surplus/deficit projections, maintains and updates cash flow projections
  • Optimizes interest income through allowable investment strategies
  • Provides regular updates to the vice president regarding cash shortages and financial position
  • Reviews capital lease documents and prepares financial proformas as needed
  • Reviews outstanding of purchase orders to minimize the impact on surplus/deficit

Leadership and Supervision

  • Supervises Bursar’s Office, Procurement, Accounting Services, Asset Management, and Department of Risk Management, Safety and Transportation
  • Provides leadership and professional development opportunities for direct reports
  • Ensures cross-training and succession planning within supervised departments

Policy and Compliance

  • Researches and interprets state and Board of Regents policies
  • Stays current with regulatory changes affecting higher education finance
  • Implements policy updates and ensures institutional compliance

Additional Responsibilities

  • Performs related duties and other tasks as assigned
  • Participates in strategic planning initiatives
  • Serves on university committees as assigned

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS NEEDED

Technical Knowledge

  • Knowledge of state and federal financial reporting requirements
  • Knowledge of Board of Regents business policies and procedures
  • Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) guidelines
  • Knowledge of higher education finance and accounting practices
  • Knowledge of university policies and procedures
  • Knowledge of computers and high efficiency in job-related software programs (Banner, PeopleSoft, Excel, financial reporting tools)

Leadership and Management Skills

  • Skill in the delegation of responsibility and authority
  • Skill in organization and project management
  • Skill in decision making and problem solving
  • Skill in change management and process improvement
  • Ability to develop and mentor staff

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

  • Skill in interpersonal relations and in dealing with the public
  • Skill in oral and written communication
  • Ability to present complex financial information to diverse audiences
  • Skill in conflict resolution and negotiation

Analytical Skills

  • Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities
  • Attention to detail and accuracy
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The vice president for business & finance assigns work in terms of department goals and objectives aligned with the university’s strategic plan. The supervisor reviews work through regular conferences, comprehensive reports and observation of department activities. The incumbent operates with considerable independence in day-to-day operations while maintaining regular communication on strategic matters and significant issues.

GUIDELINES

Guidelines include GAAP, GASB standards, the Board of Regents Policy Manual, the Board of Regents Business Procedures Manual, State Accounting Office policies, university policies and procedures and federal regulations applicable to higher education institutions. These guidelines require judgment, selection and interpretation in application, particularly in complex or unprecedented situations.

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

  • The work consists of varied management, accounting and supervisory duties requiring high-level technical expertise and strategic thinking. Strict regulations, the need for absolute accuracy and the complexity of higher education finance contribute to the position’s demanding nature
  • The purpose of this position is to direct the university’s accounting and financial reporting functions while serving as a key advisor to senior leadership. Success in this position contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of financial operations, ensures compliance with all relevant rules and regulations, and supports the university’s mission of educational excellence
  • The position requires balancing multiple priorities, managing competing deadlines and maintaining accuracy under pressure

CONTACTS

Internal Contacts

  • University employees at all levels, from staff to senior administration
  • Students and student organizations
  • Faculty members regarding finances for departmental transactions and sponsored programs
  • Board of Regents representatives

External Contacts

  • Vendors and service providers
  • External auditors and consultants
  • Banking and investment representatives
  • State and federal agency representatives
  • Legal counsel and attorneys

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • The work is typically performed while sitting at a desk or table for extended periods
  • The work is typically performed in an office environment with standard climate control
  • Occasional travel may be required for training, conferences or meetings
  • Standard office equipment usage including computers, phones and calculators
  • May require lifting of documents and materials up to 25 pounds occasionally

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY

  • Assistant Comptroller/Director of Accounting Services (1)
  • Payroll Manager (1)
  • Procurement Director (1)
  • Bursar (1)
  • Director of Risk Management, Safety, and Transportation

Supervisory responsibilities include:

  • Performance management and evaluation
  • Staff development and training coordination
  • Budget oversight for supervised departments
  • Ensuring adequate staffing levels and succession planning
  • Resolving complex issues and providing guidance

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Master’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a closely related field
  • Four plus years of progressively responsible experience in accounting, finance, or related field
  • Experience with governmental or higher education accounting preferred
  • Knowledge of GAAP and GASB standards
  • Demonstrated supervisory experience

REFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Technical Expertise

  • Experience and high efficiency with Banner and/or Workday ERP system
  • Experience and high efficiency with PeopleSoft
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential
  • GAAP and GASB proficiency
  • Understanding of accounts payable processes
  • Understanding of procurement processes
  • Experience with financial statement preparation and analysis
  • Proficiency with advanced Excel and financial modeling

Higher Education Experience

  • Previous experience in higher education finance
  • Knowledge of federal compliance requirements (Title IV and sponsored programs)
  • Understanding of student financial aid processes

Leadership Qualities

  • Mission alignment with HBCU values and student success
  • Student-first finance professional mindset
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Experience leading diverse teams
  • Change management experience

Professional Development

  • Professional certifications beyond CPA (CGFM, CISA, etc.)
  • Continuing education in higher education finance
  • Professional association memberships

ABOUT FORT VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY

Fort Valley State University (FVSU) is a public, historically Black university located in Fort Valley, Georgia. Established in 1895, it is the state’s 1890 land-grant institution and amember of the University System of Georgia. FVSU offers over 50 undergraduates and several graduate degree programs, with notable strengths in agriculture, veterinary technology and STEM fields.The university’s 1,365-acre campus is the second largest in Georgia by area.Approximately 90% of its student body is of African American descent. FVSU is recognized for its affordability, research opportunities and commitment to student success. It has been ranked as the #1 public HBCU in Georgia for seven consecutive yearsby U.S. News & World Report.The university’s mission is to provide excellent academic programs that integrate quality instruction, research, extension and student learning experiences responsive to the needs of a culturally and economically diverse student population.

MISSION STATEMENT

Fort Valley State University, founded in 1895, is an HBCU and 1890 land-grant institution providing excellent academic programs that integrate quality instruction, research, extension and student learning experiences responsive to the needs of a culturally and economically diverse student population equipped to excel in the 21st-century global community.

VISION STATEMENT

Fort Valley State University aspires to be the university of choice for students, faculty, staff and future employers, recognized nationally and internationally for its excellence in teaching, research, service, exemplary academic programs and globally competitive students.

VALUES

  • Intellectual Excellence: FVSU is committed to the highest standards of excellence by creating stimulating learning environments that promote intellectual growth, innovation, discovery and life-long learning.
  • Student-Centered: Our top priority is students and providing them with an enriching, stimulating and supportive environment.
  • Diversity: We respect all people, cultures, ideas, beliefs, lifestyles and perspectives.
  • Integrity and Collegiality: We hold everyone accountable for their actions and engaging in honest, ethical behavior.
  • Engagement: We serve as an important strategic partner and resource by promoting educational attainment, cultural enrichment and economic development.

ABOUT FORT VALLEY, GEORGIA

FSVU is in the central Georgia metropolitan area, which encompasses the state’s fourth-largest city, Macon, as well as several growing cities and progressive small towns. Other features of the area include Robins Air Force Base, one of the state’s largest employers; the #11 rated public school in Georgia, the Academy of Classical Education; the nationally recognized Houston County School System; and outstanding healthcare along with the second largest hospital in Georgia. Central Georgia offers endless activity opportunities for families and individuals alike. Awide range of fine and casual dining, live music venues, festivals, water parks, golf courses, museums, historical sites, farmer’s markets, touring Broadway shows, kayaking, indoor rock climbing and more provide an appealing quality of life. The City of Fort Valley has been honored as one of 10 Georgia Cities of Excellence, and it is considered one of the state’s best managed and most livable cities. It offers tree-lined streets and beautiful historic homes and boasts a cost of living below the state and national average. Beyond the metro central Georgia area, Atlanta and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport are easily accessible by I-75. If looking for time at the beach or enjoying the cool mountain air, the Georgia coastline or Blue Ridge Mountains are only three-hour drive away.

How to apply

To ensure full consideration, application materials should be received by Nov. 17, 2025.

  • Letter of Interest – Should address qualifications, experience and vision for the role
  • Comprehensive Resume – Including detailed employment history and accomplishments
  • Three Professional References – Full contact information (name, title, organization, phone number, email and relationship to candidate)Interested candidates should submit all application materials electronically through the APPLY NOW button.

Please direct nominations and inquiries to:

Dr. Will Anyu, Associate Principal, TM2 Executive Search ([email protected])

Jessica Horton, M.S.,Associate Principal,TM2 Executive Search ([email protected])

Dr. Amanda Washington Lockett,President & Managing Principal,TM2 Executive Search ([email protected])

ABOUT TM² EXECUTIVE SEARCH

TM² Executive Search specializes in providing exemplary executive talent acquisition consultation for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), predominantly Black institutions (PBIs) and other organizations looking to attract highly qualified, motivated accomplished diverse candidates at all levels of the administration. TM² Executive Search is committed to supporting the Black college community and developing the future of HBCU leadership. We use our combined experiences in higher education and executive search to partner with institutions to build highly effective and functioning leadership through increasing the quality of talent acquisition and developing strategic leaders. TM² Executive Search serves as the official educational talent search subsidiary of Thurgood Marshall College Fund. For more information about TM² Executive Search, visit tm2search.com.