Accounting Manager Principal

Job TitleAccounting Manager PrincipalRequisition NumberRE54509Department Name3A050: STUDENT ACCOUNT SERVICESWork Location:Lexington, KYGrade Level48Salary Range$62,941-103,834/yearType Of PositionStaffPosition Time StatusFull-TimeRequired EducationBAClick here for more information about equivalencies::https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalenciesRequired Related Experience6 yrsRequired License/Registration/CertificationNonePhysical Requirementslifting, pushing or pulling of objects up to 25 lbs.ShiftMonday-Friday 8:00am to 5:00pmJob SummaryLead Financial Operations That Make a Campus ImpactThe University of Kentucky is seeking an Accounting Manager Principal to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight within Student Account Services.This role sits at the intersection of financial management, compliance, and student services, ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and effectiveness of critical accounting operations that support the university community. You’ll lead a high-performing team, oversee complex financial processes, and drive continuous improvement across systems, policies, and service delivery.What You’ll DoLead and manage daily operations of Student Account Services, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and strong internal controlsProvide direct and indirect supervision to staff, including hiring, performance management, and professional developmentOversee administration of student accounting and loan programs, including compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulationsServe as a key liaison for enterprise systems (SAP), managing processes such as billing, payments, refunds, reporting, and system enhancementsMonitor and ensure compliance with financial regulations and audit requirements, implementing policy and process improvements as neededManage complex student account and loan issues, providing resolution and guidance for escalated casesPrepare, analyze, and submit financial and regulatory reports to internal stakeholders and external agenciesLead special projects, support strategic initiatives, and represent the department on committees and at university eventsWhat You’ll BringExperience in accounting, financial operations, or student financial services, with increasing levels of responsibilityStrong leadership skills with the ability to manage teams and drive organizational performanceDeep understanding of financial compliance, internal controls, and regulatory requirementsExperience working with enterprise financial systems (e.g., SAP) and complex reporting processesExcellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skillsStrong communication skills with the ability to engage effectively across technical, operational, and leadership audiencesA commitment to customer service excellence and continuous improvementMinimum RequirementsBachelor’s degree6+ years of related experienceWhat’s In It For YouMeaningful Impact: Oversee financial operations that directly support students and the university’s missionLeadership Opportunity: Guide and develop a team while shaping departmental strategy and processesProfessional Growth: Expand expertise in compliance, enterprise systems, and higher education financeHybrid Flexibility: Opportunity for hybrid work arrangements with approvalCollaborative Environment: Work alongside leadership and partners across finance, IT, and student servicesComprehensive Benefits: Competitive pay, benefits, and opportunities for growth UK’s Exceptional BenefitsWhy Now?RoleAs the university continues to navigate evolving financial regulations, technology systems, and student service expectations, this role is essential to ensuring strong financial stewardship and operational excellence. In this position, you’ll help:Strengthen compliance and financial integrity across student account operationsEnhance system functionality and reporting capabilitiesImprove processes that support both staff efficiency and student experienceYou’ll step into a leadership role where your expertise, initiative, and strategic thinking will have a lasting impact on financial operations and student success.Skills / Knowledge / AbilitiesSupervision, leadership, organization, communication, analytical skillsDoes this position have supervisory responsibilities? :YesDeadline To Apply06/04/2026Our University CommunityWe value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.