Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & VP Finance

University of Rio Grande•Rio Grande, OH

62d

About The Position

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and VP of Finance provides leadership and oversight for the development and execution of a sustainable financial model for the University that anticipates and responds to the opportunities and challenges inherent in the contemporary higher education environment. Reporting to the President, the CFO is responsible for the management of operating budgets and financial reporting, development of forecasts for the University that accurately anticipate risks and opportunities including return on investment and opportunity cost analysis, promotes operational excellence through cross-departmental collaboration and possesses a demonstrated ability to analyze, interpret and effectively communicate statistical and financial information to internal and external stakeholders. The CFO serves as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team and Administrative Council to drive the mission and strategic direction of the University and represents the University on the Board of Trustee's Finance Committee and provides leadership and expertise to internal teams and committees and external constituents and groups.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree and minimum of five (5) years' experience required,: Master's degree, CPA and experience in higher education preferred.
Demonstrated skills in financial management, planning, and strategic analysis.
Demonstrated experience in strategic oversight and implementing financial systems.
Strong knowledge of and the ability to implement best practices for accounting and operations is essential.
Demonstrated experience in a complex organization with both proven leadership and willingness to "roll up his/her sleeves" to get the work done.
Ability to work closely with President and Trustees in building both administrative and governance oversight of finances.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, demonstrating a track record in leading and training budget managers in all areas of responsible financial management.
Commitment to students, and a deep understanding of the needs of a residential campus.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree, CPA and experience in higher education preferred.
Knowledge and a proven track record in private higher education is desirable.
Experience in housing oversight and auxiliary partnerships to maximize the financial income from those operations is preferred.
Knowledge of community colleges is a preferred qualification to strengthen the partnership with Rio Grande Community College.

Responsibilities

Responsible for the day-to-day planning and management of all financial functions including preparing financial statements; overseeing financial aid, student billing and accounts receivable; coordinating annual audit reports; managing cash and investments; preparing annual budgets, approving all expenditures, purchase orders, and checks, and preparing and approving contracts for services and grants.
Oversees the Business Office, Financial Aid, Bookstore, and any consultants working in these areas.
Recommends staffing needs to support best practices in the Business Office and the directives of the President and Board of Trustees.
Coordinate financial planning which leads to a strong, sustainable institution, supporting the goals of the University's mission and strategic plan.
Informs the President of any material deviations and provides trend information of organizational revenues and expenditures, as well as a forward-looking multi-year outlook.
Work annually to assure an expeditious and positive audit.
Work closely with the Community College Treasurer, and other leaders on capital planning and management.
Provides leadership, expert insight, and direction to financial models for tuition models, residence halls, auxiliary services and related business operations.
Assures compliance with all state and federal regulations which govern the financial ratios of independent colleges and universities. Work closely with the compliance and risk management programs.
Provides leadership for the University's continuous improvement of business solutions and operating strategies that enhance revenues, create efficiencies and strengthen the fiscal strength of the institution.
Works collaboratively with Rio's partner institution, Rio Grande Community College. in leveraging opportunities for strong business operations in the nation's only combined public community college and private University.
Work closely with key stakeholders including banks, investment groups, Board of Trustees - representing the University at local, state and national meetings.
Builds and oversees the annual operating budget with the Executive Staff and University administrators, providing regular updates and reports to the President and Board of Trustees.
Serves as the staff liaison to relevant committees of the Board of Trustees, including Finance, Audit and Investment.
Reviews, updates, develops, and documents policies and procedures for all business operations.
Develops best practice policies and procedures for cash flow management.
Serves as a transformational and adaptive leader with an ability to actively listen to all stakeholders, building continuous improvement policies and procedures.
Reviews and advises the institution on the best software packages and administrative systems to manage the institution's business operations.
Represents the President at local, state, and national meetings as requested.
Assume other duties and responsibilities as requested by the President.