Job description

Philander Smith University (PSU), a distinguished Historically Black College in Little Rock, Arkansas, is conducting a national search for a visionary and strategic financial leader to serve as Vice President for Fiscal Affairs & Chief Financial Officer (VPFA/CFO). This role is critical to PSU’s financial health, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability.

The VPFA/CFO will oversee all aspects of the University’s financial operations, including budgeting, financial reporting, investment management, and resource allocation. They will implement sound financial policies, enhance operational efficiencies, and ensure compliance with federal, state, and accreditation requirements while aligning financial strategies with PSU’s mission.

This leader will work closely with the President, Board of Trustees, faculty, and administration to drive financial sustainability and identify new revenue opportunities. The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience in higher education finance or a similarly complex environment, demonstrating strong financial acumen and strategic vision.

Beyond financial oversight, the VPFA/CFO will foster transparency in fiscal decision-making and develop strategies to support institutional priorities. A commitment to the values of PSU and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) is essential for success in this role. The search committee, comprising board members, faculty, and administrative leaders, is dedicated to finding an exceptional candidate who embodies integrity and innovation. The new VPFA/CFO is expected to join PSU in the Summer of 2025, ensuring a seamless transition in financial leadership.

THE OPPORTUNITY

PSU seeks a seasoned financial executive who will:

• Provide visionary financial leadership to support the institution’s mission and strategic plan.
• Oversee budget planning, forecasting, and fiscal analysis to optimize resource utilization.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations and reporting standards in higher education.
• Foster a culture of accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement in financial operations.
• Develop and execute strategies to enhance institutional financial sustainability and identify new revenue streams.
• Manage PSU’s endowment and investment strategies, ensuring long-term growth and stability.
• Collaborate with university leadership to support institutional growth and expansion efforts.
• Strengthen financial policies and internal controls to mitigate risk and safeguard university assets.
• Leverage technology and data analytics to enhance financial reporting and decision-making.
• Lead and mentor a high-performing finance team to drive operational excellence.

RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES

• Strategic Financial Leadership: Develop and implement financial policies aligned with PSU’s mission and strategic priorities.
• Budget Management: Oversee the formulation and execution of the university’s annual operating and capital budgets.
• Financial Reporting & Compliance: Ensure adherence to accounting principles, audit requirements, and regulatory compliance.
• Endowment & Investment Oversight: Manage financial assets to ensure long-term fiscal health and growth.
• Operational Efficiency: Enhance systems and processes to drive financial and operational effectiveness.
• Collaboration & Communication: Work closely with university leadership, trustees, and external stakeholders to enhance financial strategies and reporting.
• Risk Management: Identify and mitigate financial risks to protect PSU’s assets and ensure institutional stability.
• Revenue Generation & Financial Growth: Develop strategies to diversify revenue streams and strengthen PSU’s financial position.
• Team Leadership & Development: Lead and mentor a high-performing finance team, fostering professional growth and operational excellence.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS & LEADERSHIP CHARACTERISTICS

• Educational Background: A master’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field (CPA or CFA preferred).
• Leadership Experience: At least 10 years of progressive leadership experience in financial management, preferably in higher education.
• Financial Strategy: Demonstrated success in budget planning, forecasting, and financial strategy development.
• Higher Education Finance Expertise: Strong understanding of higher education finance, including grants, endowments, and regulatory compliance.
• Technology & Data Analysis: Experience with financial technology systems and data-driven decision-making.
• Commitment to DEI: A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in financial planning and operations.
• Regulatory & Compliance Knowledge: Expertise in federal, state, and accreditation financial regulations and reporting requirements.
• Interpersonal & Communication Skills: Strong ability to communicate complex financial concepts to diverse stakeholders, including trustees, faculty, and staff.
• Change Management & Innovation: A track record of implementing financial best practices, fostering innovation, and driving continuous improvement.

How to apply

To ensure full consideration, interested candidates should submit their application materials by May 15, 2025. The application must include the following:

• Letter of Interest: A detailed statement outlining the candidate’s qualifications, leadership philosophy, and vision for the role of VPFA/CFO at PSU.
• Comprehensive CV/Resume: A complete and up-to-date record of the candidate’s professional background, accomplishments, and relevant experience.
• Professional References: Full contact information for three professional references who can speak to the candidate’s leadership abilities, financial expertise, and professional integrity.

For confidential inquiries contact:

Dr. Amanda Washington Lockett
Principal
TM² Executive Search
[email protected]

Dr. Will Anyu
Associate Principal
TM² Executive Search
[email protected]

Jessica Horton, MS
Associate Principal
TM² Executive Search
[email protected]