Director of Budgeting and Finance

SUMMARY

The Director of Budgeting and Finance serves as the organization's Controller and reports to the VP for Administration while matrix reporting to the College President. This key leadership role is responsible for the financial integrity and operational efficiency of the college’s fiscal functions. This position oversees budgeting, financial reporting, grant compliance, cash management, audits, as well as the operations of the Purchasing Department. The Controller ensures adherence to applicable laws, regulations, and institutional policies while supporting the college’s mission through sound financial stewardship. This is a Management Confidential twelve (12) month position which provides leadership for a staff of 4 individuals. Some evening and weekend work is required.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Graduate of an accredited College or University with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, business administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree and CPA certification are preferred.
2. A minimum of five (5) years of fiscal management and experience in a college, government, or business setting.
3. Supervisory experience required.
4. Experience maintaining or auditing the double-entry books of a business, including the general ledger, or managing government agency books that involved appropriation accounting, as well as preparing budget and financial reports.
5. Experience working in higher education is preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge:

• Deep understanding of fund accounting, grant compliance, and public sector financial management.
• Familiarity with ERP systems.
• Knowledge of federal and state regulations related to higher education finance.

Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Excellent leadership and supervisory skills, with the ability to motivate, manage, and develop a diverse team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial reporting tools.
• Project management and organizational skills.

Abilities:

• Ability to interpret complex financial data and communicate it to non-financial stakeholders.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Ability to analyze data, draw conclusions, and make recommendations based on financial trends and data analytics.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Management & Reporting

• Develop and manage the college’s annual operating and capital budgets. Coordinates the preparation of the proposed annual budget and monitors compliance with the adopted budget. Analyze state and local budget proposals to determine their impact on the College.
• Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports and reports to senior leadership and the Board of Trustees.
• Prepare financial and cost data reports, such as IPEDS, annual budget, and financial reports for submission to SUNY.
• Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB), and other regulatory requirements.
• Maintains subsidiary ledgers and general ledgers for college and grants, including review, preparation, and posting of journal entries.
• Conducts cost studies of internal operations and programs.
• Conducts an investment program for college funds.
• Manages College property, plant, and equipment accounts.
• Manages liability, malpractice, and other related insurance programs.

Grants Administration

• Oversee post-award grant accounting, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and private grantor requirements.
• Monitor grant budgets, expenditures, and reporting deadlines.
• Collaborate with grant managers and departments to ensure proper documentation and financial tracking.

Audit & Compliance

• Coordinate annual financial audits and single audits (A-133/Uniform Guidance). Respond to outside audits and prepare reports as needed to challenge audit disallowances.
• Implement internal controls and risk management strategies.
• Ensure timely and accurate filing of all required financial reports and disclosures.
• Conducts internal financial and efficiency audits.
• Serves as College Records Officer and acts as primary depository of all contracts and agreements.

Purchasing

• Oversee the Purchasing Office to ensure procurement practices are efficient and compliant with applicable laws.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Lead and mentor finance staff, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. This includes goal setting, professional development, communication, and evaluation for all Finance personnel.
• Serve as a liaison to external auditors, regulatory agencies, and funding bodies.
• Collaborate with academic and administrative departments to support strategic planning and resource allocation.
• Interpret financial reports and audits and make recommendations for changes in procedures and operations.
• Acts as College liaison with the County, State, and SUNY on financial matters as directed by the President.
• Performs all other related tasks as assigned by the President or designee.