Director of Accounting Operations

A humble college founded before Texas was a state, Baylor now stands as one of the premier institutions of higher education in the world. Baylor has continued to invest in research and doctoral education, both solidifying and elevating its unique status as a preeminent Christian research university. Baylor is among 187 R1 institutions, just 52 of which are private universities.

Since 2011, Baylor has been named as one of the nation’s “Great Colleges to Work For”. Great Colleges to Work For® is one of the country’s largest and most respected workplace recognition programs. Each year, Great Colleges recognizes the colleges and universities that get top employee ratings regarding workplace practices and policies across 10 areas. This recognition is based on faculty and staff responses to a related annual survey. The survey, conducted by ModernThink, is a way for colleges and universities to gain a deeper understanding of how their employees experience and view various aspects of the institution. This continued recognition further affirms Baylor as a rewarding place to build a career. 

What We are Looking For

Baylor University’s Controller’s Office is seeking a full-time Director of Accounting Operations to join its team. This position plays a vital role in advancing the University’s mission by supporting financial integrity, operational excellence, and regulatory compliance.  The Director oversees the day-to-day accounting operations, ensuring accurate financial reporting, and adherence to applicable standards and policies. Working closely with Accounting leadership, this role contributes to the development and maintenance of strong internal controls and efficient processes.  Serving as a trusted resource across campus, the Director promotes sound financial stewardship and drives continuous improvements within the University’s financial operations.

A bachelor's degree in accounting, finance or a related field, five years of relevant experience and a CPA license are required. A master's degree and seven years of higher education accounting experience is preferred.

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Strong ability to build collaborative relationships and work effectively across multiple levels of the organization 
• Advanced knowledge of GAAP and accounting principles 
• Exceptional attention to detail, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills 
• Sound judgement and effective decision-making abilities 
• Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong organizational and project management skills, including experience with process improvement initiatives
• Clear and professional written and verbal communication skills 
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and ability to handle confidential information 
• Tact and diplomacy in navigating complex or sensitive situations 
• Commitment to compliance with University policies regulatory requirements

Applicants must be authorized to work full-time in the United States.

What You Will Do

• Maintain a thorough and current understanding of GAAP, FASB standards, and University policies; ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
• Coordinate journal entries for daily operations, as well as month-end and year-end close processes; analyze general ledger accounts, and review and approve entries prepared by accounting staff 
• Assist the Senior Director in the daily operations of Accounting Operations including general ledger activities and post-close financial statement analysis 
• Assist with the annual external audits including preparing schedules and reports, supporting transaction testing, and assisting in the finalization of audited financial statements 
• Prepare and analyze financial reports and contribute to forecasting and planning processes 
• Oversee account reconciliations and ensure timely resolution of variances 
• Supervise, mentor and develop accounting staff
• Collaborate with financial roles in Business units across the University to ensure accurate financial reporting and proper use of funds and University policies and procedures
• Optimize the use of financial systems and reporting tools
• Coordinate and prepare annual external financial surveys and reporting 
• Engage in ongoing professional development through training, seminars, and committee participation 
• Lead or contribute to special projects and research accounting matters
• Perform all other duties as assigned to support Baylor’s mission
• Ability to comply with University policies
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance

What You Can Expect

As part of the Baylor family, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous time off, tuition remission, and outstanding automatic retirement contributions. Baylor has a comprehensive benefits plan that supports you and your family’s wellbeing and allows you to be a part of the life of a vibrant and active college campus.  To learn more, go to Baylor Benefits & Advantages.

Explore & Engage

Learn more about Baylor and our strategic vision, Baylor in Deeds.  Also, explore our great hometown of Waco and the many opportunities to engage locally.  If you are new to Central Texas, This is Waco!