Assistant Vice President for Finance

Kutztown University PASSHE•Kutztown, PA

About The Position

Kutztown University is seeking a highly experienced and strategic financial leader to serve as the Assistant Vice President for Finance. Reporting to the Vice President for Administration & Finance and CFO, this position is responsible for the overall financial operations of the University, including accounting, budgeting, payroll services, student accounts, and business services. The Assistant Vice President ensures the integrity, transparency, and long-term sustainability of the University’s financial operations. This role provides leadership in financial planning and analysis, maintains strong internal controls, ensures compliance with PASSHE, federal, and state requirements, and supports data-informed decision-making across the institution. The position serves as a key advisor to senior leadership and plays a critical role in aligning financial resources with institutional priorities and long-term sustainability goals.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a closely related field.
Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in financial management, budgeting, accounting, or related functions.
Demonstrated leadership experience supervising professional staff and managing complex financial operations.
Strong knowledge of financial reporting, budgeting, internal controls, and compliance requirements.
Experience developing financial models and conducting analysis to support strategic decision-making.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present financial information clearly to a variety of audiences.
Strong organizational and analytical skills with attention to detail.
Proficiency in financial systems and Microsoft Office applications.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA), Finance, Accounting, or a related field.
Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Certified Public Accountant (CPA), or similar professional certification.
Experience in higher education or a large, complex public sector organization.
Familiarity with PASSHE policies, SAP systems, and public sector financial reporting standards.
Experience supporting audits, regulatory compliance, and multi-unit financial operations.
Demonstrated experience working collaboratively with senior leadership and diverse stakeholder groups.

Responsibilities

Provide leadership and oversight for Financial & Business Services, including accounting, budget, accounts payable, payroll services, student accounts, and business services.
Lead the development and management of the University’s annual operating budget and long-range financial planning efforts.
Develop multi-year financial projections and perform scenario modeling to support strategic decision-making.
Monitor financial performance, identify risks and opportunities, and recommend strategies to support long-term financial sustainability.
Ensure compliance with PASSHE policies, GAAP/GASB standards, and applicable federal and state regulations.
Maintain strong internal controls and oversee all financial reporting, audit activity, and year-end close processes.
Serve as a senior advisor to the Vice President for Administration & Finance and contribute to institutional strategy and planning.
Present financial information and analysis to the Council of Trustees, University leadership, and campus stakeholders.
Collaborate with senior leadership to align financial planning with enrollment trends, academic priorities, and operational needs.
Oversee procurement coordination, banking relationships, cash management, and vendor partnerships.
Serve as the University’s fiscal and contracting authority, supporting procurement strategy and high-value contract review.
Drive process improvement and operational efficiency initiatives across financial and business service functions.
Partner closely with Enrollment Management to support revenue strategy, student success, and retention outcomes.