Job Description Summary

Position Overview and Key Responsibilities:

The Director, General Accounting reports to the Controller, and is responsible for managing the accounting and financial reporting of the University’s capital assets, debt, and equipment. This position plays a key role in compliance with applicable accounting standards and policies. With oversight of more than $2 billion in net property, plant, and equipment, $150 million in annual capital spending, and over $500 million in debt and capital leases, the Director performs advanced-level accounting and financial tasks. This role leads the capital asset team to ensure timely reconciliation of project data, compliance with University and USM policies, and adherence to accounting standards such as GAAP, GASB, GASB 87, and GASB 96. Key responsibilities include managing the asset lifecycle (additions, disposals, donations), coordinating physical inventories, and maintaining the integrity of the University's capital and fixed asset records. This individual must be able to lead and motivate staff, resolve complex financial and operational issues, and communicate effectively with all levels of university administration and external partners.

The Director collaborates closely with Facilities Management, the University Budget Office, and other campus departments to ensure accurate project setup, budget tracking, and spending oversight. The position monitors gift fund activity, identifies and resolves project deficits, and ensures timely and accurate reporting for both internal stakeholders and external auditors.

In addition, this position plays a strategic role in the preparation of annual capital forecasts, financial statement reporting, and audit support. The Director will contribute to policy development and recommend procedures that promote financial stability and effective capital management. They will also support debt analysis and long-term capital forecasting in coordination with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Controller, and senior leadership.

About General Accounting at the University of Maryland, College Park:

The General Accounting - Capital, Plant, and Project Accounting office at the University of Maryland, College Park is responsible for the financial management and reporting of the institution’s capital assets, including buildings, infrastructure, equipment, and related debt. This office ensures that all capital projects are accurately recorded, tracked, and reconciled in compliance with accounting standards, University of Maryland policies, and University System of Maryland policies. Key functions include overseeing inventory of capital equipment, managing the accounting for capital projects, property, plant, and equipment, tracking asset lifecycles, including additions, disposals, and depreciation.

Physical Demands:

Sedentary Work: Primarily desk-based, requiring prolonged periods of sitting while performing tasks such as typing, filing, and using a computer. Repetitive Motion: Frequent use of a keyboard, mouse, and phone, which may involve repetitive hand and wrist movements. Occasional Lifting: Ability to lift and carry office materials, files, and supplies up to 20-25 pounds (e.g., boxes, office equipment). Standing and Walking: Occasional walking to meetings, interacting with staff or faculty, and attending departmental events or presentations. Visual and Mental Acuity: Requires the ability to focus on financial reports, spreadsheets, and documents for extended periods and manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Communication: Frequent verbal communication with staff, faculty, and campus administrators, requiring clear speech and the ability to hear and respond appropriately in meetings and discussions.

Licenses/ Certifications: N/A

Minimum Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.

Experience: Ten (10) years of professional accounting or finance experience. Five (5) years of experience supervising or managing professional staff.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge of finance functions including general accounting, statistical or financial functions.

Knowledge of business acumen to understand key business drivers, organizational communications

and data.

Skill in oral and written communication.

Skill in data analytics and negotiation.

Skill in the use of Microsoft Office products.

Ability to research information and analyze complex data and information to create reports and presentations.

Ability to exercise independent judgment and discretion.

Ability to develop and administer new policies and procedures.

Additional Job Details