Finance Director of Strategy and Long Range Planning

The College of Wooster•Wooster, OH

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Finance Director of Strategy and Long-Range Planning is responsible for providing advanced financial guidance, deploying capital strategically, and leading financial initiatives and decision support. As a thought leader and program manager, the Financial Director plays a key role in shaping the institution's financial strategy and supporting the decision-making processes of Cabinet and the Resources Committee.

Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in a related field (such as finance, accounting, or business administration) is required.
Proven experience in financial leadership roles within higher education or a similar complex organization.
Demonstrated expertise with advanced financial modeling, analysis, and forecasting and process improvement.
Proven track record of building compelling and insightful analysis, business cases, and reviews of initiatives and programs including costs and revenues that support an organization's strategic imperatives.
Highly collaborative, well spoken, with excellent communication skills; understands how to achieve results and influence others.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex financial information to diverse stakeholders.
Advanced and demonstrated skills with excel, PowerPoint presentations (tells a story), and gravitas to influence and drive with peers, Cabinet Officers, and Board members.
Strong project management, process transformation and technology enablement skills.
In-depth knowledge of industry best practices, trends, and innovations in financial management within the higher education sector.
Experience in providing financial guidance to committees or boards, with a focus on driving financial strategy.
Adheres to financial reporting standards and regulations.
Proficiency in financial modeling and budgeting software/tools.
Follow college mission and vision
Adhere to all college processes and procedures.

Nice To Haves

Relevant certifications, such as MBA and/or CPA preferred.

Responsibilities

Leads advanced financial modeling, multi-year and interim forecasting, and core financial planning and analysis functions including budgeting, variance analysis and trend insights.
Conducts scenario analysis and sensitivity testing to assess potential impacts on the institution's financial position.
Strategically deploys capital to support key initiatives aligned with the College's strategic imperatives.
Collaborates with stakeholders to optimize the allocation of financial resources for maximum impact.
Leads enterprise-wide cost optimization initiatives, delivering sustainable annual savings while maintaining service quality and supporting institutional priorities.
Drives continuous improvement in finance processes; refines workflows to enable timely, data-driven decision making.
Serves as a thought leader and collaborates with cross-functional teams to implement and monitor strategic initiatives, providing financial leadership throughout the process.
Stays abreast of industry best practices, trends, and innovations in financial management within the higher education sector.
Shares expertise and insights with colleagues, contributing to a culture of continuous improvement and excellence in financial decision-making.
Leads the development and execution of financial strategies for the Resources Committee, providing guidance on key financial decisions.
Presents financial reports, analyses, and recommendations to Cabinet and the Committee, facilitating informed discussions and decision-making.
Other duties as assigned.