SUMMARY The Vice President for Finance and Administration (VPFA)/CFO provides strategic leadership for all administrative and financial operations of the University. This role serves as an integral member of the University President’s cabinet, reporting directly to the President. This role also works closely with the Board of Trustees, including its Finance, Audit, and Investment committees and serves as a liaison to financial, governmental, and business organizations, including the University’s attorneys.
The VPFA/CFO will have the primary day-to-day responsibility of overseeing all accounting and finance operations, student financial services (includes financial aid and student accounts), operation of physical plant (includes maintenance, custodial, grounds, and capital projects), risk and property management, technology services, human resources, and auxiliary services (includes dining services, bookstore, and mail/duplicating).
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned by proper personnel.
Organizes and administers all financial aspects of the University, including financial analysis, accounting systems, annual audits, institutional investments, and the University’s endowment.
Ensures accountable and responsible ethical administrative, financial, and business practices in keeping with General Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
Leads the annual budgeting processes to reflect and advance the University Strategic Plan and monitors implementation of budget-related initiatives.
Responsible for all treasury activities, including cash and debt management.
Assesses and manages all University insurance policy needs.
Negotiates and administer contracts with outside vendors.
Partners with Enrollment and Athletics to develop financial aid policies and strategies.
Provides strategic leadership in financial planning and management with all departments.
Works collaboratively with the President and President’s Cabinet to enhance University resources and revenue and to provide counsel on financial/operational implications of business decisions.
Prepares accurate and detailed financial reports as needed for the President, Board of Trustees, and President’s Cabinet.
Provides mission-oriented strategic financial insight and long-range planning for ongoing operations, growth plans, and new initiatives.
Oversees:
Student financial services, which includes financial aid, student accounts, collections, student billing, and cashier.
Human resources administration, which includes payroll, benefits, policy administration and recruitment.
Information Technology and all University technology services.
Physical plant and auxiliary services, including maintenance and custodial services, dining services, University apartments/rental housing, bookstore, mailing/duplicating, and physical therapy clinic.
All University construction projects.
Assures the priority of an Evangelical, Christ-centered priority in all business affairs programs and policies.
REPORTING RESPONSIBILITIES Serves as a member of the President’s Cabinet, reporting directly to the University President.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES Responsible for the overall direction, coordination, and evaluation of this unit in accordance with SAU’s policies and applicable laws, including direct supervision of the following: Controller, Director of Student Financial Services, Director of Physical Plant, Chief Information Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer Bookstore manager and Dining Services manager (by contract)
QUALIFICATIONS
Strong commitment as a follower of Jesus Christ, including a life and service that is in full accord with the Spring Arbor University Concept and Community Covenant.
A creative, collaborative leader and innovative thinker with the ability to focus strategically on opportunities and outcomes.
Ability to build and nurture a strong team that is focused on excellence, accountability, customer service, and efficiency.
Demonstrated leadership and communication skills, along with the ability to relate and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, is essential for leveraging finance to support the actualization of the University’s vision and mission.
Expertise and a strong record of success in budget development and implementation; familiarity with business and finance operations; and knowledge of tax law, compliance requirements, and non-profit financial regulations, preferably in a private higher education setting.
Proven success using data to inform the development of innovative approaches to financial management and operations.
Excellent organizational and time management skills, ability to provide sound leadership and decision-making.
Strong background and knowledge in accounting and financial analysis.
Demonstrated supervisory experience leading a team of professionals.
Superior skills using Microsoft Excel and proficiency using relevant software programs and student information systems.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
A master’s degree in business administration, accounting, or related academic discipline and/or a CPA designation are required.
At least five years of increasingly responsible management experience in business administration or finance, including the production of financial statements, budget preparation and projections, investment management, risk management, and supervision of multiple direct reports.
Experience working in multicultural academic environments preferred and individuals from diverse populations are encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Since 1873, Spring Arbor University has helped students pursue wisdom by offering an education grounded in the Christian faith. What began as a small elementary and secondary school in the late 1800s has evolved into a top-tier, liberal arts, Christian university. Offering more than 70 undergraduate majors and programs, nine degree completion programs, two associate programs, and 12 graduate programs. With programs presented on campus, online and on site at 17 locations throughout Michigan and in Ohio, the University continues to meet the growing needs of its students.