Chief Financial Officer – Sample Job Description
A prestigious university in the Northeast is seeking a dynamic and strategic Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to lead its financial operations and drive long-term fiscal sustainability. The CFO will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, providing strategic financial guidance and ensuring the institution’s financial health aligns with its academic mission and institutional goals.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and execute financial strategies to support the university’s long-term growth, stability, and operational efficiency.
- Oversee all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, endowments, investments, and risk management.
- Lead financial planning and analysis efforts, ensuring data-driven decision-making to enhance resource allocation and institutional priorities.
- Collaborate with the President, Board of Trustees, and senior leadership to align financial objectives with academic and operational goals.
- Ensure compliance with all financial regulations, reporting standards, and institutional policies.
- Manage relationships with external stakeholders, including auditors, financial institutions, and government agencies.
- Drive financial sustainability initiatives, including revenue diversification, cost optimization, and strategic investment planning.
- Provide leadership and mentorship to finance teams, fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and innovation.
Qualifications:
- Education: A master’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field is required; CPA or CFA designation is a plus.
- Experience: A minimum of 10+ years of progressive financial leadership experience, ideally in higher education, nonprofit organizations, or complex institutional settings.
- Expertise: Strong background in financial strategy, endowment management, budgeting, and regulatory compliance within large institutions.
- Leadership: Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, drive financial performance, and collaborate with executive leadership.
- Skills: Exceptional analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills, with a commitment to fiscal responsibility and institutional excellence.
Why Join This Institution?
This opportunity offers the chance to make a lasting impact on a leading university’s financial future, supporting its mission of academic excellence, research innovation, and student success. The CFO will play a critical role in shaping financial policies that drive institutional growth and sustainability in an ever-evolving higher education landscape.