Controller in Chester

Widener University is seeking an accomplished Controller to lead the Accounting team within the Administration and Finance division. Overseeing the Accounting team and reporting to the Associate Vice President of Fiscal Operations & Risk Management, this role is a key driver of financial integrity and operational excellence across the University. The Controller will oversee all accounting operations, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting, compliance, and audit readiness. This position is responsible for designing and implementing efficient processes, strengthening internal controls, and delivering actionable insights that support strategic decision-making. Acting as a trusted advisor, the Controller collaborates with senior leadership and departments across campus to optimize financial systems and reporting practices. In addition to managing the University’s financial close process and external reporting, the Controller leads annual audits, tax compliance, and treasury-related activities. This role combines technical expertise with leadership skills to guide the accounting team, foster continuous improvement, and uphold Widener’s commitment to transparency and fiscal stewardship. This role follows a hybrid work model, combining in-office and remote work, as determined by team needs.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited to):

• Provides strategic leadership and oversight of all University accounting operations, including financial reporting, fiscal year-end close, and continuous evaluation of processes, policies, and internal controls to ensure efficiency and compliance.
• Partners with the Associate Vice President to deliver high-level financial analysis and reporting; proactively resolves complex accounting issues impacting institutional operations.
• Serves as a key financial liaison across University departments, fostering collaboration to ensure accurate, timely, and transparent financial data processing.
• Directs the development and review of comprehensive financial and operational analyses, including planned and ad hoc reporting to support strategic decision-making.
• Collaborates with senior leadership and external auditors to design and implement robust financial processes and departmental procedures that strengthen compliance and operational excellence.
• Oversees the preparation and analytical review of quarterly and annual financial statements, ensuring accuracy and alignment with regulatory standards.
• Leads and manages all University audits (VEBA, 403B, Financial, Single), including strategic coordination, preparation of schedules, and delivery of audit-ready financials.
• Ensures regulatory compliance through preparation of University tax returns and employer-related tax filings, while monitoring evolving tax requirements.
• Directs external financial reporting and completion of institutional surveys, ensuring accuracy and timely submission to stakeholders.
• Oversees management of the accounting team, including talent development, performance management, and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Secondary Responsibilities:

• Provides advanced financial analysis and modeling to support strategic planning and decision-making.
• Leads complex problem-solving initiatives, leveraging data queries to deliver actionable insights and optimize financial processes.
• Oversees the integrity and functionality of the University’s general ledger system, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and continuous improvement.
• Directs and executes special projects and high-impact initiatives as assigned by senior leadership, driving innovation and operational excellence.

QUALIFICATIONS (education/training and experience required):

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance or related field.
• Five (5)+ years of progressive accounting experience, including three (3)+ years in higher education.
• Supervisory experience.
• Strong financial analysis skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational and time management skills.
• Demonstrated computer skills including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Highly proficient with Microsoft Excel including advanced functions.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, including ability to effectively communicate to senior leadership.
• Familiarity with FASB standards and requirements.
• Demonstrated experience of accounting laws and regulations.

Preferred:

• Certified Public Accountant.
• Public accounting experience.
• Ellucian Colleague knowledge.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND/OR UNUSUAL HOURS:

• Occasionally lifting less than 15lbs.
• Must be able to sit and work on computer for long periods, navigate spreadsheets with small print, and be mobile between campus floors and buildings.
• Usual office environment; routines sitting at a desk occasionally standing, bending, stooping or kneeling.
• This role may require periodic overtime as needed (quarterly and year-end closings etc.)

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Widener University is committed to fostering an inclusive community in which faculty, staff, and students from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing equal educational and employment opportunities for all persons without regard to age, color, national origin, race, religion, disability, veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or status as a protected veteran. Some positions may be eligible for a hybrid or remote work arrangement that may include a partially or fully remote work location, consistent with Widener’s Flexible Work policy.

Widener University, an independent, metropolitan, doctoral-intensive university, connects curricula to social issues through civic engagement. Dynamic teaching, active scholarship, personal attention and experiential learning are key components of the Widener Experience. Located in Chester, PA, Widener's main campus is nestled between Philadelphia, PA and Wilmington, DE, with Law Schools located in both Harrisburg and Wilmington. For more information about the university, please visit our website at www.widener.edu. EOE M/F/V/D