Job Summary/Basic Function:

The Controller provides strategic leadership and operational oversight of the Foundation’s accounting and financial reporting functions. This position ensures accuracy, integrity, and compliance in all financial matters, supporting the Foundation’s mission to advance Boise State University through effective stewardship of donor resources.

Department Overview:

A nonprofit Idaho organization, the Boise State University Foundation was established in 1964 for the benefit of Boise State University. We work to secure philanthropic support for the university by developing and nurturing relationships with our alumni and friends and stewarding gifts made to support Boise State. The Foundation works closely with university leadership, the Boise State University Alumni Association, and the Bronco Athletic Association.

Mission: To build a greater Boise State University, we provide fundraising leadership and service across the university and partner with donors and alumni to inspire private support.

Core Values:

• Purpose Driven
• Relentless Excellence
• Responsible
• Collaborative

Level Scope:

Oversees through subordinate Managers a large, complex organization with multiple functional disciplines/occupations, OR manages a program, regardless of size, that has critical impact upon the campus. Significant responsibility for formulating and administering policies and programs, manages significant human, financial, and physical resources, and functions with a very high degree of autonomy. Frequently influences business decisions made by senior leadership. Oversees through subordinate Managers the accountability and stewardship of campus resources and the development of systems and procedures to protect organizational assets. Negotiates and influences others to understand and accept new concepts, practices and approaches.

Essential Functions:

95% of the time the Controller must:

• Coordinate the delivery of annual audited financial statements.
• Prepare and review monthly financial statements; analyze and explain significant fluctuations.
• Review large, unusual, or complex transactions and ensure proper documentation.
• Convert cash-basis financial statements to GAAP-based statements as required.
• Provide financial insights and reporting to senior leadership, and Board committees as requested.
• Maintain awareness of changes in higher education finance regulations and best practices, recommending policy updates as needed.
• Responsible for maintaining accurate budget records and providing timely budget-to-actual reports to the CEO and department heads.
• Oversee Accounts Payable, General Ledger, and other core accounting functions.
• Ensure compliance with donor restrictions, University policies, and GAAP standards.
• Develop, implement, and maintain internal controls to safeguard Foundation assets.
• Supervise and mentor accounting staff, continually evaluating staffing and skills to meet evolving responsibilities.
• Ensure proper training is provided to each department to maintain smooth operations and adherence to procedures.
• Direct policy development in collaboration with campus and University partners.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders on projects, process improvements, and special financial initiatives.
• Work closely with counterparts on the University financial team to address operational issues, reconciliations, and reporting discrepancies.
• Continually evaluate and improve accounting procedures and workflows to increase efficiency and accuracy.
• Coordinate all internal and external audits, ensuring documentation and reporting requirements are met.
• Support preparation of schedules and documentation for donor-restricted fund compliance.
• Monitor regulatory changes and ensure the Foundation remains compliant with applicable financial and accounting standards.

5% of the time the Controller:

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience documenting and improving processes and procedures.
• Capable of public speaking and training groups on related topics. Experience with taking a complex technical issue and break it down into understandable components for any audience.
• Ability to utilize critical thinking skills to proactively problem solve.
• Expert knowledge of databases and spreadsheet concepts and ability to work with them proficiently.
• Must have experience in GAAP financial reporting and in analyzing and implementing GASB or FASB financial standards.
• Possess demonstrated experience in implementing and improving internal controls and experience with COSO standards.
• Strong ability to effectively lead employees, including mentoring and training.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree and 8 years relevant experience including 5 years managerial experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in accounting and 8 years relevant experience including 5 years managerial experience. Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

Salary and Benefits:

The starting salary range for this position is $136,198.40 to $170,248.00 annually and is commensurate with experience. Boise State University provides a best-in-class benefits package, including (but not limited to):

• 12 paid holidays AND the University is closed between Christmas and New Year's (requires use of 3 vacation days)
• Between 12-24 annual paid vacation days for full-time Professional and Classified staff depending on position type and years of service
• 10.76% University contribution to your ORP retirement fund (Professional and Faculty employees)
• 11.96% University contribution to your PERSI retirement fund (Classified employees)
• Excellent medical, dental and other health-related insurance coverages
• Tuition fee waiver benefits for employees, spouses and their dependents
• See our full benefits page for more information!

Required Application Materials:

Please submit a cover letter indicating your interest and qualifications for the position. Attach a resume that includes employment history (including dates of employment).

About Us:

Nestled along the Boise River and steps from the state capitol, Boise State University fosters a vibrant and welcoming academic environment that fuels student and employee success. We’re a trailblazing institution, nationally recognized for our innovative spirit and commitment to positive impact on Idaho and beyond.

Boise State is proud to be recognized by Forbes as the only Idaho employer listed in the top 100 of all national midsize and large employers. We’re building a thriving community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, experiences, and perspectives come together to create a rich and rewarding academic experience. Applications from all backgrounds are welcomed.

Learn more about Boise State and living in Idaho’s Treasure Valley at https://www.boisestate.edu/about/