View Job description for Associate Controller

Lead Financial Stewardship and Operational Excellence as the Associate Controller/Executive Director of Financial Operations at CWI! 

Are you a collaborative financial leader with a passion for accounting excellence, regulatory compliance, and team development? The College of Western Idaho (CWI) is seeking an Associate Controller/ED of Fin Operations to support the Associate Vice President, Finance and Controller in overseeing the College’s accounting and financial operations. 

In this leadership role, you'll provide strategic oversight of accounting functions, supervise key Business Office leaders, support financial reporting and audit activities, and help ensure the College maintains strong financial controls and compliance with applicable accounting standards and regulations. 

Why Join CWI? 

At CWI, strong financial stewardship supports student success, institutional growth, and operational excellence. As the Associate Controller, you'll play a critical role in leading Business Office operations, developing accounting processes, supporting major financial initiatives, and ensuring the integrity of the College's financial reporting and systems. 

Benefits: 

CWI offers one of the most affordable and comprehensive benefits packages in higher education, including: 

• Premium healthcare plans 

• 11%+ employer retirement contributions 

• Tuition discounts 

• Generous personal leave 

• Professional development opportunities 

Financial Leadership & Business Office Operations: 

• Provide leadership and oversight for the College's accounting and finance functions 

• Support the Associate Vice President, Finance and Controller in managing financial operations and strategic initiatives 

• Serve as a senior resource for complex accounting and financial operational matters 

• Ensure financial practices align with institutional priorities, accounting standards, and regulatory requirements 

• Support the continuous improvement of Business Office operations and services 

Team Leadership & Staff Development: 

• Supervise and support the Accounting Manager, Accounts Payable & Payroll Manager, and Bursar 

• Recruit, train, mentor, evaluate, and develop assigned staff 

• Establish performance expectations, employee goals, and professional development plans 

• Foster a collaborative, customer-focused, and high-performing team culture 

• Provide coaching, guidance, and corrective action when necessary 

Financial Reporting & Audit Management: 

• Assist with preparation and coordination of the College’s annual external audit 

• Support the preparation of audited financial statements and required footnote disclosures 

• Manage preparation of the College’s Annual Financial Report and related supporting schedules 

• Prepare and review financial reports, analyses, and documentation supporting institutional decision-making 

• Assist with state, federal, and other required financial reporting 

Accounting, Compliance & Internal Controls: 

• Ensure compliance with GAAP, GASB, FASB, federal regulations, and other applicable accounting standards 

• Oversee monthly and fiscal year-end close processes 

• Perform and review complex reconciliations, analyses, and accounting adjustments 

• Maintain the integrity of the College's general ledger and related financial systems 

• Develop, implement, and monitor internal controls and accounting procedures 

• Ensure technical accounting issues are identified, researched, and resolved appropriately 

Financial Systems & Process Improvement: 

• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of financial systems, business processes, workflows, and reporting requirements 

• Support implementation, maintenance, and enhancement of Financial and Student Accounts systems and modules 

• Recommend and implement process improvements that increase efficiency, accuracy, and effectiveness 

• Communicate accounting policy and procedure updates to the campus community 

• Develop and implement action plans that support operational and strategic priorities 

Collaboration & Institutional Support: 

• Partner with campus leaders to ensure appropriate approvals, funding, and financial oversight for institutional activities 

• Support the CWI Foundation accounting function and related reporting requirements 

• Collaborate with stakeholders across the college to support sound financial management practices 

• Convey by words and actions the values expected by CWI 

• Perform other duties as assigned 

What We're Looking For: 

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a related field 

• Five (5) years of governmental and/or fund accounting experience 

• Previous supervisory or leadership experience 

• Strong knowledge of GAAP, GASB, FASB, and federal financial compliance requirements 

• Experience with complex account reconciliations, financial analysis, and audit support 

• Strong leadership and team development skills 

• Ability to manage both strategic and detailed operational responsibilities 

• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills 

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building abilities 

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound professional judgment 

• Ability to prioritize multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment