Chief Financial Officer

Description

Position Overview:

The Chief Financial Officer serves as a cornerstone of the senior leadership team at Stephens College. Reporting directly to the President, the CFO plays a pivotal role in enhancing the college’s mission and strategic objectives through the judicious management of college resources. The CFO is responsible for developing and overseeing the financial strategies and operations of the institution and ensuring financial models and analyses are aligned with strategic decision-making. This role demands the capacity to translate complex financial data into actionable insights accessible to a diverse audience, fostering an environment of collaboration and transparency.

The CFO designs and implements a financial strategy tailored to the unique dynamics of the higher education sector, overseeing multiple facets of the College’s processes, including budget management, financial reporting, risk forecasting, and cost analysis. The CFO will provide leadership and executive oversight for a broad range of financial and support operations, including accounts payable, auditing, budgeting, cash and investment management, contracts, controller functions, endowment management and investment, financial administration of donor gifts and grants, financial planning, human resource management, payroll, procurement, and risk management, including leadership and management of the offices of Accounting and Human Resources. The CFO also serves as the College’s liaison with the Finance Committee and the Investment Committee of the Board of Trustees.

The CFO at Stephens College is not only a steward of financial management but also a key collaborator and strategic leader dedicated to the institution’s mission and its community’s success. Hybrid/remote considered.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategy, Planning, and Management:

• Evaluate the financial performance of the institution against long-term goals, budgets, and forecasts.
• Play a significant role in institutional strategic planning as a member of the President's leadership team.
• Enhance operational efficiency and accuracy across managed departments, advocating for innovative processes and technologies.
• Establish clear financial objectives that support the college’s growth and development, consistent with its strategic plan.
• Maintain strong relationships with financial partners, and lead in high-level financial negotiations and partnerships.
• Lead recruitment, management, and development of staff in relevant departments.
• Develop and implement appropriate policies and procedures across areas of reporting responsibility.

Financial Analysis, Budgeting, and Forecasting:

• Prepare, present, and review quarterly financial reports, including budget forecasts and cash flow analyses.
• Conduct monthly reviews of financial results and offer strategic recommendations.
• Lead the analysis and evaluation of new business initiatives or services.
• Maintain ongoing and annual budgeting processes.
• Oversee financial planning and the deployment of related reporting tools and software.
• In collaboration with the Finance Committee and the Investment Committee of the Board of Trustees, provide support in the strategic management of the College’s endowment, consistent with all legal, ethical and regulatory requirements.
• In collaboration with Human Resources, ensure compliance and accuracy in the management and monitoring of the College’s 403(b) retirement plan.

Accounting, General Ledger, Administration, and Operations:

• Uphold rigorous internal controls and financial procedures to ensure compliance.
• Guarantee the accuracy and timeliness of financial and management reports for stakeholders including government funders, donors, and the Board of Trustees.
• Manage the preparation and dissemination of financial statements.
• Collaborate with Human Resources, Financial Aid, and Advancement to maintain legal and regulatory compliance.
• Oversee monthly and year-end financial reconciliation and closure processes.
• Update and enhance financial and accounting systems, processes, and controls.
• Stay updated with best practices in audits and regulatory changes affecting college operations.

Financial Management:

• Direct the planning of cash flow and ensure the availability of funds.
• Manage areas of cash handling, investments, and asset management.
• Sustain excellent relationships with financial institutions, vendors, and business partners.
• Employ advanced forecasting models to provide insight into the organization's financial planning and budget management.
• Oversee accounts receivable manag