Assistant Vice President and University Controller

Shape the Financial Future of a Premier Institution

The University of Virginia (UVA) seeks a strategic and forward-thinking financial leader to serve as its Assistant Vice President and University Controller. This high-impact leadership role at one of the nation’s top public universities offers a unique opportunity to champion financial excellence, innovation, and integrity in support of UVA’s world-class academic and research mission.

If you're a proactive problem-solver who thrives in complex financial environments, embraces technology-driven solutions, and inspires high-performing teams - we encourage you to apply.

About the Role

The University Controller serves as a key financial steward, ensuring the accuracy, transparency, and compliance of UVA’s financial operations. Reporting to the Associate Vice President and Deputy Vice President for Finance, the Controller oversees financial reporting, general accounting, internal controls, and financial compliance, while cultivating a culture of integrity and operational efficiency.

This role demands a proactive, innovative leader with deep expertise in higher education finance. The Controller will work across departments to enhance UVA’s financial sustainability, align operations with institutional priorities, and support its academic mission.

This is your opportunity to:

• Lead strategic financial initiatives aligned with UVA’s long-term goals
• Drive continuous improvement in financial operations, reporting, and technology
• Collaborate with senior leadership to shape UVA’s financial future
• Foster innovation and excellence in a dynamic, mission-driven environment

Key Responsibilities

1. Financial Reporting & Strategy

• Oversee the preparation of timely, accurate financial statements in compliance with GAAP and GASB standards
• Ensure all federal, state, and institutional reporting requirements are met, including audits and compliance filings
• Lead the financial close process with efficiency, transparency, and accountability
• Partner with university leadership to develop strategies that support long-term fiscal health and growth

2. General Accounting & Financial Operations

• Manage general ledger operations, fund accounting, and financial transactions with rigor and accuracy
• Implement internal controls and accounting best practices to protect university assets
• Oversee financial reconciliations to maintain fiscal integrity
• Collaborate with budget teams to align operations and improve efficiency

3. Compliance & Risk Management

• Develop and enforce financial policies to ensure compliance with state, federal, and institutional regulations
• Serve as liaison for external auditors, ensuring smooth audits and timely implementation of recommendations
• Partner with Sponsored Programs, Tax Compliance, and Risk Management to mitigate financial risks

4. Technology & Process Innovation

• Leverage Workday FIN and financial analytics tools to modernize reporting and streamline accounting
• Drive automation and process improvements to increase operational efficiency
• Stay current on emerging financial technologies and trends

5. Leadership & Collaboration

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing finance and accounting team
• Serve as a trusted advisor to academic and administrative leaders, providing data-driven insights
• Build collaborative relationships across UVA and with external stakeholders to advance financial stewardship

What We’re Looking For

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred)
• 8-10 years of progressive leadership experience in finance, accounting, or compliance within higher education, government, or a large, complex organization
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, GASB, federal compliance requirements, and higher education financial regulations
• Demonstrated leadership in financial strategy, internal controls, and policy development
• Proficiency with Workday FIN or similar financial systems, data analytics, and reporting tools
• Proven track record of driving operational efficiency, innovation, and financial integrity

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation
• Experience in sponsored research finance, endowment accounting, and tax compliance in higher education
• Success managing financial teams and leading change in complex, decentralized environments
• Expertise in financial modeling, forecasting, and strategic resource planning

Core Competencies

• Strategic Financial Leadership - Aligns financial strategy with institutional goals for long-term success
• Financial & Regulatory Expertise - Deep understanding of GAAP, GASB, and federal/state financial regulations
• Technology & Data Proficiency - Experienced with Workday FIN, financial analytics, and modern accounting tools
• Risk Management & Compliance - Develops and enforces strong internal controls and audit readiness
• Process Improvement & Innovation - Identifies efficiencies and drives automation in financial operations
• Collaboration & Influence - Builds partnerships and communicates effectively across all levels of the institution
• Leadership & Team Development - Leads high-performing teams and cultivates accountability and excellence
• Problem-Solving & Decision-Making - Uses data-driven analysis to address complex financial challenges

This position will remain open until filled. This is an exempt level, benefited position. The University will perform background checks on all hires (if required) prior to employment. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States. For this role, the University will not sponsor or consider candidates requiring sponsorship for employment visas now or in the future. For questions about the position or the application process, please contact Daniel Strong, Senior Recruiter at das6zb@virginia.edu.

Please apply through the University job board, Careers at UVA , and search for R0072676.

There is an in-office expectation of 5 days per week.

Anticipated Hiring Range : Commensurate with qualifications ($220,000 - $265 ,000 per year) and eligible for University benefits.

Please submit a resume and a cover letter to be considered for this position, applications that do not contain both pieces of information will not receive full consideration.

Internal applicants must apply through their UVA Workday profile by searching ‘Find Jobs’ or through their ‘Jobs Hub’. Applicants must complete an application online with the following documents: a resume and cover letter.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: Bachelor's Degree required, Master's Degree preferred.

Experience: Ten years of relevant experience required.

Licensure: None required

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.