Job description

New Mexico State University (NMSU), an R-1 land grant institution and the oldest public institution of higher education in the state, seeks a strong executive and trusted financial leader as its next Vice President for Administration and Finance (VPAF).

Founded in 1888, NMSU has been dedicated to New Mexico’s diverse population for more than a century, transforming lives through three main pursuits: teaching, research, and public service. With nearly 22,000 students across one residential campus, an online campus, three community college campuses, and 33 statewide Extension offices, NMSU’s tagline – BE BOLD. Shape the Future.® – embodies the University’s core values and vision to deliver solutions for the future.

The Vice President for Administration and Finance and Chief Financial Officer reports directly to President Ferme, who was inaugurated in spring 2025. The VPAF serves as a key member of the executive leadership team and a strategic advisor to the President and Board of Regents and will play a pivotal role in shaping the University’s fiscal and administrative future by overseeing major operational functions, including Finance, Budget, Human Resources, Facilities, Auxiliary Services, Real Estate Development and more, administering an operating and capital budget in excess of $1 billion.

The successful candidate will bring significant leadership experience befitting an institution of NMSU’s size and complexity, and will be recognized as a trusted, collaborative, and transparent leader. A bachelor’s degree, evidence of progressive senior administrative advancement, with at least five years as a manager at a higher education institution, and proven leadership in finance, budgeting, strategic planning, resource management, and compliance are required. A related graduate degree is preferred.

The University is especially seeking individuals who are not afraid to work to achieve goals that ‘punch’ above the University’s weight and demonstrate the hardiness of the Aggie mentality. NMSU is in the desert and from the desert, and hails from hardy traditions of the West. The people are kind and community oriented. They know that teaming and working together is the best way to obtain results. The future VPAF will embrace this spirit and develop and enhance it in their direct reports and in the staff who lead the University in fulfilling its objectives and goals.

How to apply

All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as separate documents, a CV or resume and a letter of interest addressing the themes in the leadership profile.

WittKieffer is assisting New Mexico State University in this search. For full consideration, candidate materials should be received by October 9, 2025.

Application materials, nominations, and inquiries can be directed to: