Controller

The University of Saint Francis welcomes applications for the position of Controller.

The University of Saint Francis in Fort Wayne, Indiana invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for the position of Controller. Saint Francis is a Catholic, Franciscan university in the liberal arts tradition. The Controller will report to the Vice President for Business & Finance/CFO. Saint Francis seeks an accomplished and mission‑driven financial professional to serve as Controller. The ideal candidate is a seasoned accounting leader who combines technical excellence with a collaborative, service‑oriented approach and a strong appreciation for the values and purpose of Catholic higher education.

This individual brings deep expertise in GAAP accounting, financial reporting, and internal controls, along with demonstrated success managing complex financial operations in a regulated environment such as higher education, nonprofit, or a similarly sophisticated organization. The ideal candidate has a proven track record of leading month‑end and year‑end close processes, overseeing audits, ensuring regulatory compliance, and producing clear, decision‑relevant financial information for senior leadership and governing boards.

The successful candidate is an engaged people leader who values accountability, mentorship, and professional development. They are skilled at building effective teams, maintaining appropriate separation of duties, and fostering a culture of accuracy, integrity, and continuous improvement within the Business Office.

Strong candidates are strategic thinkers and trusted advisors, able to partner with the Vice President for Business & Finance/CFO on cash management, forecasting, risk assessment, and long‑range planning. They are comfortable working cross‑functionally, integrating financial data from multiple systems, and communicating complex financial information clearly to a wide range of audiences.

The Ideal Candidate Demonstrates

• A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting (CPA and/or Master’s degree preferred
• Five or more years of progressively responsible accounting experience, with supervisory responsibility
• Knowledge of higher‑education financial regulations, audits, and reporting requirements
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
• High ethical standards, sound judgment, and attention to detail
• A customer‑focused mindset and commitment to service

Above all, the ideal candidate embraces the Catholic mission and Franciscan values of the University of Saint Francis and is eager to contribute to a community dedicated to the formation of the whole person—students, colleagues, and the broader community alike. The new Controller is expected to begin serving no later than June 15, 2026.

Interested applicants should complete the online application, and include a cover letter, a resume, and the contact information for three references. The cover letter should directly address the responsibilities of the position with special emphasis placed upon the candidate’s qualifications and experience as well as how the applicant will seek to advance the Catholic, Franciscan Mission of the University. Finalists may be required to provide official transcripts. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Job Description

The University of Saint Francis offers formation of the whole person by providing an encounter with the heart and mind of Jesus Christ so that God, who is Love, may be loved. Through our Catholic identity, Franciscan charism, and liberal arts tradition, we prepare students for personal and professional lives of virtue, service, and joy.

SF core values are the standards of behavior for every member of the university. They reflect those of the Sisters of Saint Francis of Perpetual Adoration and bring their charism to the university. 

• Ceaseless Adoration – We adore God and interact with others in a way that honors His Presence. 
• Generous Love – we spend time in community, give of ourselves, and accept help from others. 
• Franciscan Joy – we delight in the simple things and give thanks in all circumstances.

The University of Saint Francis promotes and celebrates the Catholic identity and Franciscan charism of the institution with an invitation to students, faculty and staff of all faiths. This God-centered and student-focused approach invites all employees to be a part of the formation of the whole person (students and colleagues) in a learning and working environment where character development and faith formation are as essential as academic achievement. Molding well-rounded, faith-filled, ethical leaders is the essence of the university’s approach and all employees are expected to engage in a way that fulfills and furthers the mission.

The university's strategic plan can be found at: https://be.sf.edu/renew-2028/