Vice President, Finance & Business Affairs / Chief Finance Officer
William Woods University invites applications from, and nominations of, strategic and visionary professionals for the position of Vice President for Finance & Business Affairs and Chief Financial Officer. The ideal candidate has superior finance and accounting skills with an entrepreneurial spirit and strategic mindset.
About William Woods University
Established in 1870, William Woods University is a learning community of more than 2,500 students and faculty, representing all 50 US states and 40 countries, with over 750 traditional students on its 225-acre campus in Fulton, Missouri.
A coeducational, independent, professions-oriented institution, The Woods offers degree programs as diverse as an internationally recognized Equestrian studies program, a four-year American Sign Language interpreting program, a criminal justice degree with homeland security emphasis, a Cybersecurity degree and the Show-Me GOLD program, which prepares graduates to serve as officers in the Missouri Army National Guard.
Growing and thriving in the competitive world of higher education, William Woods welcomed its largest-ever class of new incoming students for the second straight year in 2024 and has added seven new degree programs and seven new intercollegiate sports just since 2022.
Mission
William Woods University promotes a student-centered learning environment valuing inclusion, creativity, and intellectual inquiry. Focused on professions-oriented education, we prepare learners for success.
Vision
The vision of William Woods University is to be recognized as a progressive and growing leader in higher education, fiscally healthy, and achieving quality in all aspects of institutional life, while cultivating highly respected, innovative, unique programs.
The Opportunity
TheVice President for Finance and Business Affairs (VPFBA) /Chief Financial Officer (CFO), plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the financial integrity of William Woods University. This key executive is responsible for providing strategic financial leadership and guidance to the President, Board of Trustees, and senior university leadership. The CFO leads in all aspects of financial management, policy development, and fiscal oversight, ensuring sound financial stewardship across the institution. In addition to overseeing Finance and Business Affairs, the Vice President holds executive accountability for Computing and Information Technology, Human Resources, Facilities Management, and the Campus Post Office. This role demands a forward-thinking leader capable of driving financial strategy while supporting the university's broader mission and goals.
Duties and Responsibilities
Financial Strategy & Planning
- Develop and implement financial strategies that align with the University's mission and goals.
- Lead the creation of both short- and long-term financial plans, including capital planning, debt management, and investment strategies.
- Provide detailed financial analysis, key performance indicators (KPIs), and recommendations to the President and Board of Trustees.
Budgeting & Financial Management
- Oversee the development and management of the University's annual operating and capital budgets, both short- and long-term.
- Ensure effective management of financial resources by monitoring expenditures and revenues.
- Identify financial risks or opportunities early and recommend appropriate actions.
- Continuously evaluate key performance indicators (KPIs) to track financial performance.
- Develop detailed financial models to forecast future financial outcomes and support strategic decision-making.
Accounting & Financial Reporting
- Ensure the accuracy and integrity of the University's financial records and statements.
- Oversee the preparation of all financial and audit reports, including those required by regulatory agencies and the Board of Trustees.
- Ensure compliance with all accounting standards, regulations, and university policies.
Treasury & Investment Management
- Manage the University's cash flow, banking relationships, and investment portfolio.
- Oversee the management of the University's endowment, collaborating with investment advisors and the Board's investment committee.
- Coordinate an annual review with the Board of Trustees and endowment advisors to formalize short- and long-term investment objectives.
- Ensure the University maintains sufficient liquidity to meet both short- and long-term financial obligations.
Risk Management
- Develop and implement strategies to manage financial risks, including insurance, debt management, and regulatory compliance.
- Oversee the University's internal audit function, ensuring the effectiveness of internal controls.
- Provide the President and Board of Trustees with an annual risk assessment summary on all matters affecting the University.
Leadership & Collaboration
- Lead and manage the Finance team, including the Accounting, Finance, Budget, and Treasury departments; provide executive leadership to Information Technology, Human Resources, and Facilities Management.
- Collaborate with the Leadership Team to develop and implement University-wide initiatives.
- Serve as a key advisor to the President and Board of Trustees on all financial matters.
Stakeholder Communication
- Effectively communicate the University's financial position and strategy to internal and external stakeholders, including faculty, staff, students, donors, and creditors.
- Prepare and present financial reports and updates to the President, Board of Trustees, and donors, including both large and small benefactors.
Fundraising & Development Support
- Partner with the Advancement Office to support fundraising efforts and manage the financial aspects of major gifts, grants, and endowments.
- Oversee financial planning for capital campaigns and other fundraising initiatives.
- Collaborate with the Board of Trustees on investments held in the endowment.
Asset Management
- Ensure proper controls are in place to maximize the efficient use of the University's assets.
- Develop and implement cash control processes that protect the University's critical financial assets.
- Provide strategic leadership on growth objectives, including setting cost-per-hour and other revenue-driven targets.
- Drive a responsible fiscal budget that meets revenue and cash flow objectives set by the President and Board of Trustees
The Location
Fulton, Missouri, is a historic city located in Callaway County, known for its rich heritage and small-town charm. Fulton is surrounded by scenic rolling hills and rural landscapes, offering outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and camping. The nearby Missouri River and Mark Twain National Forest provide additional natural attractions. The city boasts a vibrant downtown area with historic architecture, local shops, and eateries. Situated about 25 miles northeast of Jefferson City, the state's capital, Fulton enjoys proximity to both educational and cultural amenities. While a hybrid work schedule will be considered, considerable time is expected on campus.
APPLICATION & NOMINATION PROCESS
EFL Associates (https://eflassociates.cbiz.com), an executive search firm, is assisting William Woods University with its search for this important leadership position. All calls and inquiries should be made through the search firm. Nominations and applications will be held in strict confidence and candidates will remain confidential until the final stage of the search, at which time the express permission of finalists will be obtained before making their candidacy public. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. If interested, we encourage you to apply without delay.
Application Process
STEP 1: Complete a brief online application (2-3 minutes)
STEP 2: Send us your résumé or curriculum vitae in PDF Format.
- NOTE: A cover letter is not requested.
- Send to ApplyHigherEd@eflassociates.com
- Email subject line should read "VPFBA/CFO WWU Application"
Key Dates
- Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the most qualified candidates will be forwarded to our client for consideration.
- This position will remain open until filled. If interested, we encourage you to apply without delay.
Confidential Inquiries
Steve Waldron, JD
Managing Director, Higher Education Practice
816-945-5423 (direct), swaldron@eflassociates.com
Application Questions & Nominations
Edith Ketay
Project Manager
816-831-4001 (direct), Edith.Ketay@eflassociates.com