Director of Financial Services
Location: Highland Heights, Ky · Type: Full time · Posted:
2026-09-03 · Reference: JR100386
Position Title:
Director of Financial Services
Position Type:
Regular
About the Role:
Northern Kentucky University seeks a collaborative and strategic financial
leader to serve as the Director of Financial Services (University Accounting
& Treasury Services). Reporting to the Associate Vice President for Financial
Services, this position is responsible for overseeing the University's day-to-
day accounting and treasury operations, including general accounting,
financial reporting, treasury management, capital asset accounting, and
accounts payable.
The Director ensures the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of the
University's financial records and reporting while maintaining compliance with
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Governmental Accounting
Standards Board (GASB) standards, and applicable federal and state
regulations. This position plays a critical leadership role in the annual
financial statement audit process, development of financial policies and
procedures, implementation of accounting systems, and continuous improvement
of business processes.
The Director supervises accounting staff, partners closely with stakeholders
across the institution, and serves as a key advisor and backup to the
Associate Vice President for Financial Services.
Primary Responsibilities
Financial Leadership & Oversight
Provide leadership and supervision for accounting and treasury services
staff, including assigning work, establishing priorities, evaluating
performance, and fostering professional development.
Ensure the integrity and accuracy of the University's accounting records,
financial transactions, and reporting processes.
Review and approve journal entries, account reconciliations, and other
accounting transactions to ensure compliance with University policies,
GAAP, and GASB standards.
Oversee the University's accounts payable operations, ensuring timely and
accurate processing of payments and compliance with applicable policies
and procedures.
Financial Reporting & Compliance
Lead the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports.
Coordinate and prepare the University's annual financial statements and
related disclosures.
Manage year-end closing activities, including preparation of closing
entries, reconciliations, and audit schedules.
Serve as the primary liaison with external auditors and coordinate
responses to audit requests.
Monitor new GASB pronouncements and accounting requirements, assess
institutional impact, and implement changes necessary to ensure
compliance.
Develop, maintain, and communicate accounting policies, procedures, and
internal controls.
Systems & Process Improvement
Coordinate the development and enhancement of financial accounting and
reporting systems.
Partner with Information Technology, Human Resources, Student Financial
Services, and other campus departments to support and improve integrated
financial systems.
Act as a subject matter expert for financial systems, including ERP and
reporting tools.
Identify opportunities to streamline processes, improve efficiency,
strengthen internal controls, and enhance financial reporting
capabilities.
External Reporting
Coordinate the preparation, review, and submission of required external
reports, including but not limited to:
FISAP
IPEDS
Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE) reporting
Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR/CAFR)
American Bar Association (ABA) reporting
Management Information Reports (MIR)
Other federal, state, and regulatory reporting requirements
Review activity and financial information from affiliated entities,
including foundations, when necessary for external reporting purposes.
Strategic Support
Provide financial expertise and guidance to University leadership.
Lead or participate in special projects and strategic initiatives as
assigned.
Serve as backup to the Associate Vice President for Financial Services.
Minimum Qualifications
Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a
closely related field.
Minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible accounting,
financial reporting, or treasury management experience.
Demonstrated supervisory or management experience.
Experience preparing audited financial statements and coordinating
external audits.
Strong knowledge of GAAP and GASB accounting standards.
Preferred Qualifications
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) strongly preferred.
Experience in higher education, governmental, or nonprofit accounting.
Experience with Workday, or similar enterprise financial systems.
Experience preparing regulatory and compliance reports in a higher
education environment.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Comprehensive knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting,
treasury operations, and internal controls.
Strong understanding of GAAP, GASB, and governmental accounting practices.
Exceptional analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a complex
environment.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to build collaborative relationships across departments and
stakeholders.
Demonstrated leadership and team development skills.
High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and commitment to compliance.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound professional
judgment.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and working knowledge of Microsoft
Office applications.
Experience with Workday and financial reporting tools is preferred.
Please attach a resume, cover letter and references.
Posted Salary:
Work Environment & Physical Demands:
