Senior Vice President of Finance & Operations

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Job description

Pittsburgh, PA

REPORTS TO: University President

Qualifications

  • Education: Master’s degree in finance, Business Administration, or a related field. CPA or equivalent professional designation preferred.
  • Experience:
    • Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in finance and operations, preferably in higher education or a similar nonprofit environment.
    • Proven track record in strategic financial planning, budget management, and operational oversight.
    • Experience leading large, diverse teams and managing cross-functional initiatives.
  • Skills:
    • Exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities.
    • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and collaboration across all levels of the organization.
    • Proficiency in financial systems, data analysis, and technology-driven operational strategies.

Key Attributes

  • Visionary leader with a commitment to the mission of the University.
  • Ethical and transparent decision-maker who fosters trust and accountability.
  • Strategic thinker with the ability to balance short-term priorities with long-term goals.
  • Adaptable and innovative, capable of driving change in a dynamic environment.

Position Overview: Seeking an accomplished and strategic financial leader to serve as the Senior Vice President of Finance and Operations. This executive role combines oversight of the University’s financial strategy with leadership of key operational areas to ensure the institution’s long-term sustainability and growth. The position will report directly to the President, serve as a key member of the President’s cabinet, and contribute to the University’s mission of preparing students to meet the demands of today’s dynamic world.

Primary Responsibilities

Financial Leadership

  • Develop and execute a comprehensive financial strategy aligned with the University’s mission and strategic plan.
  • Oversee all financial functions, including budgeting, accounting, payroll, auditing, investment management, and financial reporting.
  • Lead the development and management of the University’s annual operating and capital budgets.
  • Provide strategic oversight of tuition pricing, financial aid strategies, and revenue-generation initiatives to balance accessibility and sustainability.
  • Ensure compliance with all regulatory, legal, and reporting requirements, including audits and accreditation standards. Prepare and report the annual budget.
  • Execute decisions and recommendations of the Board of Trustees, Finance Committee, Audit Committee, Investment Committee, and Facility Committee.
  • Develop and manage the University’s annual operating and capital budgets.
  • Oversee the preparation, review, and distribution of the University’s financial statements/financial analyses.
  • Administer Federal and State grant and loan programs.
  • Review and approve capital funds and equipment grant allocations.
  • Advise the University on tax matters.
  • Manage investment transactions as directed by the Investment Committee of the Board.
  • Determine and recommend annual salary percentage increases.
  • Arrange annual and internal audits of the University’s financial statements and programs.
  • Manage all contractual obligations, including leases and other financial agreements.

Operational Leadership

  • Lead strategic planning for capital projects, ensuring cost-effective and sustainable campus improvements.
  • Enhance operational efficiencies across the University through technology and process improvements.
  • Collaborate with enrollment management to optimize operational support for recruitment, retention, and student success.
  • Oversee operations for the following University departments: Finance and Budget Office, Contracts and Procurement, Information Technology, Physical Plant (Facilities), and contracted services (Food Service, and Bookstore).
  • In collaboration with the Physical Plant Department, oversee capital projects including enhancements, renovations/remodeling, and new construction.
  • Investigate potential real estate acquisitions.
  • Serve as a liaison with legal counsel and insurance consultants to maintain liability coverage for the University community and grounds.
  • In collaboration with Information Technology, review and enhance operational efficiencies through technology and process improvements.

Strategic Collaboration

  • Act as a strategic advisor to the President and Board of Trustees on financial and operational matters.
  • Collaborate with academic and administrative leaders to align resources with institutional priorities.
  • Foster a culture of financial accountability, transparency, and collaboration across all University departments.
  • Engage with external partners, including financial institutions, donors, and community organizations, to advance the University’s goals.
  • Serve as an ex-officio member of all Board of Trustees subcommittees.
  • Schedule meetings and prepare agenda and materials for Board subcommittees.
  • Collaborate with enrollment management to align financial strategies with recruitment and retention goals.

Working Conditions

  • Office-based position with regular attendance at on-campus and community events.
  • Occasional travel for university business and professional development.

How to apply

Interested and qualified candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority consideration given to submissions received by Friday, August 1st.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in its community. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.