Associate Controller, Financial Operations

Columbia University - Associate Controller, Financial Operations

New York, NY

Columbia University seeks an experienced professional to be their Associate Controller, Financial Operations, to support operations within the Office of the Controller in the Finance Division. Columbia is a complex university environment with over $20 billion in net assets, over $6 billion in operating expenses, and over $6 billion in operating revenue. Reporting to the University Controller and Associate Vice President, the Associate Controller, Financial Operations oversees a portfolio of financial operations for the University including fringe benefits forecasting and pension accounting, payroll, and international operations.

The broader Controller’s Office also includes Financial Reporting & Operations, Sponsored Projects Finance, and Tax. The Associate Controller is a senior advisor and key member of the leadership team in Finance and is responsible for strategically leading a team of 16 to support the operational and compliance needs of the University.

As a key leadership role within the Finance team at Columbia, the Associate Controller, Financial Operations, will engage their subject matter expertise and strong interpersonal skills to lead by consensus and inspire confidence in the financial operations and compliance activities  this high-impact role, the Associate Controller will lead a dedicated team of 16 and manage a diverse portfolio including Payroll, International Operations, and Fringe Benefits and Pension Accounting and Reporting.

Beyond daily operations, this finance leader will spearhead digital transformations and process optimization initiatives to drive operational efficiencies, enhance data integrity and strengthen decision‑making capabilities. This is an evolving leadership role designed for an expert who thrives on operational excellence and long‑term strategic planning in the context of a premier university.

To view the full Leadership Profile for the Associate Controller, Financial Operations role, visit the DSG website.

DSG | Storbeck has been exclusively retained for this engagement, which is being led by Amy Sugin and Laura Bertonazzi. Submit a compelling cover letter and resume by filling out DSG’s Talent Profile. All inquiries are strictly confidential.

The compensation range for this position is $240,000 - $265,000 with an exceptional benefits package, including tuition coverage, designed to support physical, mental, and financial wellness.

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents