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Director of Financial Services (University Controller)
full-timeLittle Rock

Summary

Location

Little Rock

Type

full-time

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About this role

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Closing Date:


Type of Position:

Senior Administration - Student Affairs


Workstudy Position:

No


Job Type:

Regular


Work Shift:

Day Shift (United States of America)


Sponsorship Available:

No


Institution Name:

University of Arkansas at Little Rock

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is a metropolitan research university that provides an accessible, quality education through flexible learning and unparalleled internship opportunities. At UA Little Rock, we prepare our more than 8,900 students to be innovators and responsible leaders in their fields. Committed to its metropolitan research university mission, UA Little Rock is a driving force in Little Rock's thriving cultural community and a major component of the city and state's growing profile as a regional leader in research, technology transfer, economic development, and job creation.

Below you will find the details for the position including any supplementary documentation and questions you should review before applying for the opening.  To apply for the position, please click the Apply link/button.

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process please contact Human Resources at 501-916-3180.

For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at 501-916-3180.


Department:

Finance & Admin


Department's Website:


Summary of Job Duties:

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock seeks a collaborative, analytical, and service-oriented finance leader to serve as Director of Financial Services (University Controller). Reporting to the Associate Vice Chancellor for Finance, this position provides oversight for the university’s accounting, payroll, accounts payable, fixed assets, and financial reporting functions. The Director ensures fiscal integrity, compliance with state and federal regulations, and strong internal controls while advancing a culture of operational excellence and customer service.

This role plays a pivotal part in strengthening the university’s financial health, supporting data-driven decision-making, and contributing to UA Little Rock’s mission of access, innovation, and student success. This position is governed by state and federal laws, and agency/institution policy.


Qualifications:

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related business discipline.

  • At least four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in accounting or financial management.

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration (MBA).

  • Four (4) years of progressive management and direct supervision experience.

  • Experience in public higher education or state government finance.

  • Familiarity with Workday ERP System. 

  • Knowledge of Arkansas fiscal and accounting procedures.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSBILITIES:

  • Provide leadership and direction for general accounting, accounts payable, payroll, and financial reporting operations.

  • Oversee the preparation of accurate and timely financial statements, state and system reports, and audit schedules. Additionally, responsible for the preparation, coordination, and analysis of the Arkansas Department of Higher Education, Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, and the University of Arkansas System reports.

  • Ensure compliance with GAAP, GASB, state accounting standards, and University of Arkansas System policies.

  • Develop and implement sound financial policies, internal controls, and process improvements that enhance accuracy and efficiency.

  • Manage indirect cost allocation processes and financial data analysis for internal and external audits.

  • Supervise and mentor professional accounting and support staff, fostering teamwork, accountability, and continuous learning.

  • Partner with university leadership to provide consultative financial analysis supporting budget and strategic initiatives.

  • Maintain compliance with IRS reporting (W-2s, 1099s, payroll tax filings) and other regulatory reporting requirements.

  • Oversee and reconcile general ledger activities, including restricted, construction, and investment funds.

  • Serve as a campus resource and subject-matter expert on accounting standards, financial systems, and fiscal procedures.

  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of current and future standards, methodology, applicable best practices, and relevant professional pronouncements.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS

  • Establish and maintain effective work relationships with students, faculty, staff, and the public;

  • Provide administrative guidance within area of responsibility, providing direct training and supervision as needed;

  • Strong supervisor and dispute resolution skills;

  • Knowledge of supervisor practices and techniques;

  • Strong time management and planning skills;

  • Apply budgetary and fiscal planning techniques within financial constraints;

  • Organize work effectively, conceptualize and prioritize objectives, and exercise independent judgment based on an understanding of organizational policies and activities;

  • Integrate resources, policies, and information for the determination of procedures, solutions, and other outcomes;

  • Communicate with a diverse group of employees;

  • Work in a technological environment demonstrating proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, specifically Word, Excel, and Access;

  • Prepare, present, and review oral and written information and documents;

  • Interpret and apply state and agency/institution policies and procedures governing each area;

  • Analyze and reconcile complex financial information in a computerized accounting environment;

  • Work under pressure and meet deadlines while handling multiple priorities;

  • Strategic financial analysis and reporting;

  • Advanced knowledge of accounting principles and compliance standards;

  • Strong leadership and staff development skills;

  • Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly and persuasively;

  • Proficiency with enterprise financial systems and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Access);

  • Commitment to integrity, accuracy, collaboration, and service excellence.


Additional Information:


Salary Information:

Commensurate with Education and Experience


Required Documents to Apply:

Cover Letter/Letter of Application, List of three Professional References (name, email, business title), Resume


Optional Documents:


Special Instructions to Applicants:


Recruitment Contact Information:

Lacie Barkley
Operations Manager
[email protected]; 501.916.5624


All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Site https://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS  

Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.


Pre-employment Screening Requirements:

Criminal Background Check, Financial Credit Check, Sex Offender Registry

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is committed to providing a safe campus community. We conduct background checks for applicants being considered for employment. Background checks include a criminal background check and a sex offender registry check. For certain positions, there may also be a financial (credit) background check, a Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) check, and/or drug screening. Required checks are identified in the position listing. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication or adverse financial history information alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background check information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of any category or status protected by law, including age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, or pregnancy. Questions or concerns about the application of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, may be sent to the University’s Title IX Coordinator and to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.

Constant Physical Activity:

Manipulate items with fingers, including keyboarding, Sitting, Talking, Walking


Frequent Physical Activity:

Manipulate items with fingers, including keyboarding, Sitting, Talking, Walking


Occasional Physical Activity:

Lifting, Stooping


Benefits Eligible:

Yes

Other facts

Tech stack
Accounting,Financial Management,Leadership,Compliance,Internal Controls,Financial Reporting,Data Analysis,Budgeting,Supervision,Customer Service,Process Improvement,Teamwork,Communication,Microsoft Office,Workday ERP,Strategic Analysis,Problem Solving

About University of Arkansas System

Since its inception, the University of Arkansas System has developed a tradition of excellence that includes the state’s 1871 flagship, land-grant research university; Arkansas’s premier institution for medical education, treatment and research; a major metropolitan university; an 1890 land-grant university; two regional universities serving southern and western Arkansas; seven community colleges; two schools of law; a presidential school; a residential math and science high school; a 100 percent-online university and divisions of agriculture, archeology and criminal justice. The individual entities of the UA System maintain cooperative strength as well as diverse offerings that exhibit unmatched economic and social impact to the state.

The University of Arkansas System provides communities in Arkansas with access to academic and professional opportunities, develops intellectual growth and cultural awareness in its students and provides knowledge and research skills to an ever-changing society. The system enrolls more than 70,000 students, employs over 27,000 employees, and has a total budget of over $4 billion. An intrinsic part of the texture and fabric of Arkansas, the UA System is a driving force in the state’s economic, educational and cultural advancement.

As an employer, the University of Arkansas offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes university contributions to health, dental, life and disability insurance, tuition waivers for employees and their families, 12 official holidays, immediate leave accrual, and a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10% of employee salary.

Team size: 10,001+ employees
LinkedIn: Visit
Industry: Higher Education
Founding Year: 1871

What you'll do

  • The Director of Financial Services oversees the university’s accounting, payroll, accounts payable, fixed assets, and financial reporting functions. This role ensures fiscal integrity and compliance while supporting data-driven decision-making.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Director of Financial Services (University Controller) do at University of Arkansas System?

As a Director of Financial Services (University Controller) at University of Arkansas System, you will: the Director of Financial Services oversees the university’s accounting, payroll, accounts payable, fixed assets, and financial reporting functions. This role ensures fiscal integrity and compliance while supporting data-driven decision-making..

Why join University of Arkansas System as a Director of Financial Services (University Controller)?

University of Arkansas System is a leading Higher Education company.

Is the Director of Financial Services (University Controller) position at University of Arkansas System remote?

The Director of Financial Services (University Controller) position at University of Arkansas System is based in Little Rock, Arkansas, United States. Contact the company through Clera for specific work arrangement details.

How do I apply for the Director of Financial Services (University Controller) position at University of Arkansas System?

You can apply for the Director of Financial Services (University Controller) position at University of Arkansas System directly through Clera. Click the "Apply Now" button above to start your application. Clera's AI-powered platform will help match your profile with this opportunity and guide you through the application process. You can also learn more about University of Arkansas System on their website.