Controller, George Mason University Foundation

George Mason University Foundation seeks an accomplished leader, collaborator, and subject-matter expert for the role of Controller. The Controller is responsible for managing all finance, accounting, and reporting activities for the Foundation to ensure a solid and sustainable future for George Mason University.

George Mason University Foundation

The George Mason University Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization established to receive, manage, invest, and administer private gifts, including endowment and real property, to support George Mason University’s students and programs. As of June 30, 2021, total assets were $511.7 million, including $149.2 million of real estate and investment assets of $312.4 million.

George Mason University is the largest and most diverse university in Virginia, with students and faculty from all 50 states and more than 135 countries studying in more than 200-degree programs at campuses in Arlington, Fairfax, and Prince William, as well as at learning locations across the commonwealth. Rooted in Mason's diversity is a campus culture that is both rewarding and exciting, meaningful work, and opportunities to collaborate and create.

Position Overview

Reporting to the Foundation Chief Financial Officer, the Controller is pivotal in leading daily finance operations and creating an inclusive, positive professional environment. Supervising a team of 12 with responsibility for accounting, accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash and treasury management, and financial reporting, the Controller will ensure the Foundation has the systems, procedures, team, and relationships to execute its business operations effectively and ultimately fulfill its mission.

The Controller will work closely with the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations, Director of Real Estate and Investments, and University fiscal services colleagues to explore how the Foundation finance function can best support broader University operations and provide opportunities for colleagues across the institution to learn more about the important work of the Foundation. In partnership with the Foundation CFO and Foundation President, the Controller will work to position the Foundation for growth and maximum operational effectiveness through strategic planning and initiatives.

 Qualifications

The ideal candidate will be an accomplished subject-matter expert and a collaborative leader. They will be expected to fulfill leadership and mentoring responsibilities that provide equitable and inclusive working environments to the staff they supervise and the staff with whom they work.  Success in the role requires a range of qualities, experiences, and interpersonal skills that are essential enablers of effective performance. The successful candidate is expected to demonstrate the following skills and qualifications:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in general accounting and/or auditing; recent experience in public higher education in the same or similar role is preferred
• Master's degree (or equivalent experience) in accounting; CPA license is strongly preferred
• Sound decision-making skills as well as a solid understanding of GAAP and complex reconciliations; general ledger management, audit, budget, and financial statement preparation experience
• Supervisory experience, leadership skills, and the ability to work effectively with colleagues
• Effective interpersonal, organizational, analytical, financial, and communication skills
• The tendency to be forward-thinking, enthusiastic, and entrepreneurial

George Mason University Foundation has retained Opus Partners (www.opuspartners.net) to support this recruitment.  Katie Dean, Associate Partner, and Abigail Maynard, Associate, lead the search. Confidential inquiries, applications, and nominations may be sent to Abigail via email at abigail.maynard@opuspartners.net.

All applications must also be submitted through the GMU Jobs website: https://jobs.gmu.edu/postings/54902

George Mason University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to promoting inclusion and equity in its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.