Chief Financial Officer

Lakeland University•Plymouth, WI

13d

About The Position

Lakeland University seeks an accomplished, forward-thinking Chief Financial Officer to provide strategic financial leadership during a period of innovation and growth. The CFO leads the University's financial administration and serves as a strategic partner to the President, senior leadership team, and Board of Trustees. The role brings innovation, structure, sound judgment, and stewardship to financial operations and long-term planning. The CFO oversees accounting, budgeting, tax, audit, risk assessment, financial modeling, reporting, cash management, and internal controls. The position helps evaluate investments in innovation, new revenue opportunities, institutional growth, and Lakeland's operations in Tokyo. Reporting directly to the President, the CFO works closely with the Board of Trustees and its committees and leads a team of leaders across finance, technology, dining services, and facilities. The position description notes that it is not a comprehensive listing of duties and that duties, responsibilities, and activities may change. Lakeland University does not offer H-1B or other work authorization visa sponsorship. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and in the future. Lakeland University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Educator.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Finance, or Economics required.
15 or more years of accelerated finance experience.
Board experience required.
Demonstrated leadership ability, team management, and interpersonal skills.
Exceptional management and supervisory skills, with an innovative and empowering mentoring style grounded in integrity and ethical practices.
High personal integrity, good judgment, and maturity.
Strong analytical and organizational skills; attention to detail; ability to prioritize competing demands with a calm demeanor and sound judgment.
Experience with financial planning, modeling, and forecasting principles, practices, and procedures.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills and ability to build confidence with teams, leadership, the Board, and external entities.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to build a high-performing team through delegation, motivation, support, and accountability.
Flexible working style and strong service mentality; commitment to continuous improvement and learning.
Resourcefulness in setting priorities, proposing efficiencies, and guiding investment in people and systems.
Proficiency with database and accounting computer application systems and financial tools.
Experience collaborating to manage finance and accounting software packages.
Experience interpreting a strategic vision into an operational model; abstract reasoning and organizational skills.
Skills in developing complex strategic or business models.
Passion for Lakeland University's mission and vision.
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and in the future; the University does not offer work authorization visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

MBA strongly preferred.
CPA desirable.
Finance experience in a university, educational, or nonprofit environment is ideal.
International finance experience is desirable.

Responsibilities

Execute the University's financial strategy and provide financial leadership supporting institutional goals, long-term sustainability, and stewardship of resources.
Lead financial operations, including accounting, budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, cash management, investments, tax reporting, and audits.
Develop, implement, and monitor annual and long-range budgets, financial plans, forecasts, key performance indicators, and cash-flow projections.
Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, management reports, and financial information for University leadership and the Board of Trustees.
Partner with the President and University leadership to evaluate strategic initiatives, programs, revenue opportunities, investments, and operational decisions using financial and cost-benefit analysis and long-range projections.
Advise the President, leadership team, Board of Trustees, and appropriate committees on the University's financial position, trends, risks, opportunities, and operating-model changes.
Maintain internal controls, financial policies, procedures, and reporting systems to promote accuracy, efficiency, compliance, and risk management.
Coordinate external audits, tax filings, and other financial compliance requirements; maintain current knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, accounting standards, and audit practices.
Oversee cash management and investments according to Board-approved policies and ensure appropriate liquidity and availability of funds.
Recruit, lead, develop, and supervise finance and accounting staff, setting expectations for accuracy, timeliness, service, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Maintain relationships with external financial partners, including auditors, banking partners, investment managers, and vendors.
Collaborate with academic and administrative leaders to analyze program and departmental budgets, identify efficiencies, strengthen processes, and evaluate revenue-growth and resource-optimization opportunities.
Provide leadership and oversight for assigned administrative or operational functions, promoting collaboration and continuous improvement across University systems and processes.