Assume full responsibility for all services for clients in a book of business
Review and sign engagement letters, discuss the nature and terms of assignments with clients and staff, and approve fees
Establish KPI dashboards for HE leaders (e.g., net tuition revenue, retention, instructional cost per credit hour, program margin, research/auxiliary performance) and track outcomes
Ensure project teams deliver defensible methodologies and documentation aligned to HE leading practices and sponsor/federal requirements where applicable
Drive adoption of best‑practice HE methodologies; codify playbooks and accelerators for repeatable delivery
Demonstrate deep understanding of HE economics
Own a prioritized pursuit plan; manage multiple HE engagements; mentor and scale a delivery team with consistent quality and client satisfaction
Stay current on HE regulatory and operating trends
Develop and execute a segmented business development plan targeting community colleges, private universities, and public institutions
Periodically review engagement progress to determine whether all phases of the engagement are being carried out properly
Communicate with managers and staff regarding engagement status, client problems, findings, and recommendations
Assist clients in obtaining necessary funding to continue to positively impact their community

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Accounting, Taxation or related field
Current CPA licensure required
10+ years of public accounting experience in an assurance role with a public accounting and/or professional services firm
Experience leading teams of high performing people and managing governmental audits and/or nonprofit (higher education) and Single audits strongly preferred

Assurance Principal – Higher Education

About this role