Bennington College invites applications and nominations for the position of Controller.  Reporting to the Vice President for Finance and Administration/Chief Financial Officer, the Controller will lead a team charged with the financial stewardship of the College.  The Controller serves as a strategic partner in the ongoing advancement of the College’s business operations and financial planning.  

The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of and experience with a range of financial management operations and will be equally adept as both a hands-on manager and as a strategic thinker.  The Controller will be responsible for planning and directing the College’s accounting operations and procedures in the following functional areas: accounting, general ledger, student billing/collections, accounts payable, accounts receivable, fixed assets and inventories, payroll, tax reporting, cash management and related ancillary areas.  The position is responsible for the preparation of financial statements and annual budgets as well as financial modeling in conjunction with multi-year projections. Knowledge of accounting for restricted funds is desirable. The Controller is expected to engage with all areas of the College to strengthen the overall effectiveness of the College’s financial operations, making recommendations and implementing improvements in operations and reporting where appropriate.  To that end, strong organizational, analytical and communication skills are essential. The Controller is responsible for the direct supervision and ongoing development of the Business Office team.

Bennington serves a diverse student population inclusive of members of ethnically/racially minoritized, international, LGBTQIA+, and disability communities as well as diverse gender identities, socioeconomic backgrounds, religions, and political beliefs. Our staff and faculty also reflect diverse and intersecting backgrounds and identities. All employees are expected to be respectful and responsive to these differences in the service of building community that promotes student and employee success and community cohesiveness. Each individual (faculty, staff and students) will be accountable for upholding these values.  The College’s approach to pluralism and inclusivity—both as fields of inquiry and practice—is to prioritize flexible thought, and to invite the examination of access, value, power, and privilege through its institutional policies and areas of study. We encourage applicants from diverse realms of interest, backgrounds, experience, and accomplishment to apply. 

Qualifications

Candidates must have the ability to successfully collaborate and engage with individuals at all levels of the institution. Additional qualifications include:

• A minimum of 5 years’ related experience, preferably working within higher education or a large non-profit environment, and demonstrated knowledge of non-profit accounting standards and tax laws/regulations; adept financial reporting skills required. 

• Strong technology orientation including experience using financial management systems, Excel and Google Suite. 

• Consistent exercise of discretion, independent judgment, and initiative.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Demonstrated supervisory experience and the ability to mentor/develop internal talent.

• A bachelor’s degree in accounting (or equivalent) or CPA is required.  

The position requires successful completion and acceptable results of credit and  background checks.

The College

Bennington College offers a comprehensive benefits program that includes medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance, retirement, and tuition benefits including Tuition Exchange scholarships. The College also offers an on-site fitness center as well as generous time off benefits.