Description
Roanoke College, a dynamic private institution in Salem, Virginia, invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for the position of controller. This is an on-site leadership role.
Roanoke College, enrolling approximately 1,800 students, is a place where every student who works hard has the opportunity to succeed. They champion potential, providing essential learning and leadership through innovative academic programs and transformative educational experiences, equipping students with the mettle, mindset, and empathy to pursue lives of purpose, build meaningful careers, and address society's most pressing needs. Located in the scenic Shenandoah Valley, Roanoke College is an intimate, welcoming community that has served the local region and beyond for nearly 200 years.
Reporting to the vice president of finance and administration, the controller organizes, directs, and evaluates an extensive array of financial activities, including the planning and development of Roanoke College's system of accounting and financial controls. The controller oversees all institutional accounting functions, including accounts payable, student accounts and receivables, payroll, grants accounting, endowment/annuity accounting, and lease accounting. The controller serves as a key member of the finance and accounting management team, working closely with the vice president, the senior director of budgets and risk management, members of the president's cabinet, and key stakeholders throughout the college to effectively accomplish the division's mission and goals. The controller leads and manages a team of ten professionals, including two direct reports, and administers an annual departmental operating budget of approximately $60,000.
Salary Range: $125,000-$145,000
Qualifications
The successful candidate will possess a bachelor's degree in accounting (a master's degree and CPA certification are strongly preferred), with a minimum of ten years of relevant experience as a controller for a complex non-profit organization or in a similar financial leadership role. Other requirements include in-depth knowledge, interpretation, and application of accounting principles, financial regulations, and reporting standards in a non-profit higher-education context; solid analytical and problem-solving skills, with the proven ability to reason through and independently apply accounting principles; exceptional leadership and communication abilities, with the ability to foster positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders; and astute attention to detail, a commitment to accuracy, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Additionally, a strong working knowledge of the Ellucian Colleague ERP system, proficiency in financial software and the Microsoft Office suite, and a commitment to remaining current on industry best practices and technology standards, while engaging in continuous education, will be expected.
Application and Nomination
Roanoke College has selected Spelman Johnson, a leading executive search firm, to assist with leading this search. Review of applications will begin December 10, 2025, and continue until the position is filled. Please submit your resume and cover letter via https://spelmanandjohnson.com/position/controller/
- Contact J. Scott Derrick at jsd@spelmanjohnson.com for confidential inquiries.
- Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895 or email info@spelmanjohnson.com.
Visit the Roanoke College website at https://www.roanoke.edu/
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