Job Description

Department:

VP and Chief Financial Officer

Pay Rate Type:

Salary

Employee Type:

Job Summary:

Colby College is inviting applications and nominations for the role of Associate Vice President, Financial Planning and Budget (AVP). Reporting to the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the AVP will work closely with the finance team in developing, monitoring, and analyzing institutional budgets and cash management. This role emphasizes the creation of financial models and systems, supporting both current and long-range financial planning across various college programs and activities. By bringing analytical rigor and transparency, the AVP will help set priorities and make informed financial decisions to maximize the College's resources.

Key Responsibilities, Opportunities, and Challenges Support Colby's Strategic Growth Goals

Collaborate with the CFO to support Colby’s enrollment, endowment, and fundraising objectives by developing financial models that align with institutional goals. This includes ensuring careful management of resources and cash flow to support strategic initiatives. Establish and Oversee Risk Management and Compliance Systems In partnership with the finance team and other stakeholders, the AVP will establish and monitor systems to assess financial risks and comply with regulatory requirements, responding flexibly to shifts in the internal and external environment. Create a Collaborative, High-Performance Finance Team Mentor and guide team members, fostering an environment where collaboration and accountability support high standards of integrity and service. Deliver Clear Financial Communication Produce well-structured financial reports and presentations for senior leaders and trustees, using strong communication skills to present complex financial data clearly across all levels of the College.

The ideal candidate will bring the following professional and personal qualities, skills, and characteristics to support Colby College’s financial goals and collaborate effectively with the CFO:

• Strong Financial Management Skills: Demonstrated expertise in financial management, modeling, and forecasting to develop and maintain reliable financial systems.
• Comprehensive Financial Literacy: Proficiency across accounting, financial analysis, budgeting, cash flow management, and debt structuring, with a focus on developing practical and adaptable systems.
• Knowledge of Higher Education Finance: Familiarity with higher education finance, including current trends and financial aid strategies, to align financial frameworks with institutional priorities.
• Collaborative Decision-Making: The ability to make informed, decisive choices and effectively implement them, working alongside stakeholders to ensure alignment and understanding.
• Clear and Transparent Communication: Strong communication skills with a commitment to transparency, capable of translating complex financial information in ways that are clear and accessible to varied audiences.
• Forward-Thinking and Strategic Orientation: A proactive, entrepreneurial approach to financial planning that supports strategic growth and adapts to emerging challenges.
• Relationship-Building Skills: Proven ability to establish and nurture effective internal and external relationships, working collaboratively within a diverse community.
• Capacity for Portfolio Management: Experience managing a diverse portfolio of financial responsibilities, balancing the needs and priorities of multiple constituencies.
• Technological Proficiency: Skill in using technology and data to support decision-making, with familiarity in integrated information management systems.

Required and Preferred Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in business administration or related field is strongly preferred.
• Prior educational institution or related nonprofit experience is preferred.
• A minimum of five years of increasingly responsible financial management experience.