Vice-President of Finance and Administration

PRIMARY PURPOSE OF JOB

The Vice President of Finance and Administration is a senior executive responsible for overseeing the financial and administrative functions of the college, ensuring fiscal stability, operational efficiency, and compliance with policies and regulations. The Vice-President of Finance and Administration will collaborate with the president, board of trustees, and other senior leadership to develop and execute long-term financial strategies and operational plans that align with the colleges mission and goals. This position reports to the President of the College.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Leadership:

• Provide leadership and strategic direction to the departments within finance and administration.
• Oversee all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, investments, endowments, and risk management.
• Evaluate the financial performance of the College with regard to long-term operational goals, budgets and forecasts.
• Develop and monitor the annual budget, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.
• Provide financial analysis and forecasting to inform decision-making and long-term planning.
• Ensure timely and accurate preparation of financial statements, audits, and compliance with financial regulations.
• Manage relationships with external financial institutions, auditors, consultants and investment managers.

Administrative Oversight:

• Supervise and provides leadership for administrative functions including finance, financial aid, bursar, human resources, facilities management and information technology.
• Implement policies and practices to optimize operational efficiency across all departments.
• Oversee capital planning, construction projects, and maintenance of campus facilities.
• Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements related to finance and administration.
• Promote a safe, sustainable, and inclusive campus environment.

Strategic Planning & Governance:

• Collaborate with the college president and other executives to develop and execute strategic plans.
• Advise the board of trustees and participate in relevant committees (e.g., sustainability, finance, audit).
• Engage with academic and administrative departments to ensure financial and operational goals support institutional objectives.
• Lead initiatives to improve financial sustainability, including cost-saving measures and revenue-generating opportunities.

Leadership and Team Development:

• Manage and mentor staff within the finance and administration divisions.
• Promote professional development and foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Build and maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Masters degree in finance, business administration, or a related field (MBA/CPA preferred).
• Extensive experience (8-10 years) in finance and administration, preferably within higher education.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to manage complex financial and operational systems.
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles, budgetary processes, and financial reporting.
• Familiarity with higher education funding models, including grants, tuition revenue, and endowments.
• Exceptional communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• High level of integrity and discretion.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience managing capital projects or campus facilities.
• Demonstrated ability to lead diverse teams and foster an inclusive organizational culture.
• Experience with financial software and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
• Experience with working with a diverse range of faculty and staff, and the proficiency for clear and transparent communications.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Financial Acumen: In depth understanding of Financial Operations, accounting standards, budget management and financial reporting.
• Analytical Skills: Proficiency in analyzing complex financial data, developing budgets, and generating insightful financial reports
• Problem-solving skills: Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills geared towards identifying risks and creating solutions with the ability to balance operational management and long-term planning.
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead and inspire a team fostering collaboration and continuous development
• Communication: Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to clearly present financial information to both financial and non-financial audiences.
• Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills to connect with individuals from various backgrounds, understanding their unique experiences and perspectives, and effectively addressing any issues or concerns

In evaluating candidates for this position, the College may consider a combination of education, training, and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to perform duties of position.

As an equal opportunity/access employer and educator, Fisher College is committed to creating and sustaining a diverse and inclusive environment. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. Please submit Cover Letter, Resume and References with the application.

Fisher College is an Equal Opportunity/Access Employer and Educator