Vice President for Administration & Finance and Chief Financial Officer

As the Vice President for Administration & Finance and Chief Financial Officer (VPAF/CFO), you will need to provide comprehensive oversight of the institutions administrative, financial, and operational functions to ensure organizations effectiveness, in alignment with the University's mission, vision, and strategic priorities. You will be an active member of the Office of the President and will work closely with the President to foster an integrated and service-oriented administrative infrastructure that supports the academic enterprise to enhance the overall student and employee experience. You will thrive in this role if you like combining your business or financial background and extensive leadership experience all while addressing complex operational or financial matters in compliance with governmental agencies. To be successful in this role, you must possess in depth working knowledge of accounting principles, significant senior leadership, and substantial experience with policy creation centered around institutional effectiveness. 

Your normal hours will be Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, but you may have to flex your schedule to work from time to time based on the needs of the business to be a true Vice President for Administration & Finance and Chief Financial Officer. When our team shows up for work, they are energized and motivated to succeed all while being the most crucial piece to keeping the ESU operations humming. 
What Will I Do At ESU? (AKA Essential Duties)

Strategic Leadership and Institutional Stewardship

• Provide leadership in long-range financial and facilities planning, institutional effectiveness, and organizational improvement initiatives.
• Serve as a senior strategic advisor to the President and Cabinet on financial, administrative, operational, and capital matters.

Financial Management and Fiscal Oversight

• Serve as the University’s chief financial officer with responsibility for all fiscal services, including budgeting, accounting, procurement, financial reporting, cash and investment management, and internal controls.
• Provide financial analysis, forecasting, and modeling to support executive decision-making and institutional sustainability.

Compliance, Risk Management, and Regulatory Affairs

• Serve as a primary authority on financial, administrative, and regulatory matters, interpreting complex policies, legislation, and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee institutional risk management, insurance, claims administration, and safety programs to protect University assets and ensure campus well-being.

Administrative Operations and Services

• Ensure effective operations, maintenance, and long-term stewardship of campus buildings, infrastructure, and physical assets.
• Lead capital planning, design, and construction initiatives, including alignment with the campus master plan and system-level priorities.

Leadership, Campus Engagement and Operational Excellence

• Serve as a visible, accessible leader who fosters trust, transparency, and collaboration throughout the campus community.
• Lead initiatives to modernize administrative and financial processes through technology, innovation, and continuous improvement.

 What We're Looking For (AKA Qualifications)

• Master’s degree in business administration, finance, accounting, public administration, or a related field.
• At least ten (10) years of progressively responsible leadership experience, with a minimum of five (5) years in a senior executive role.
• Experience managing in a complex organizational environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, financial management, capital planning, and administrative operations.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel independently including overnight.
• In-depth knowledge of accounting principles (GAAP/GASB), budgeting, procurement, human resource management, facility operations, labor relations, and regulatory compliance.
• Experience with enterprise financial systems, ERP platforms, and data analytics tools.
• Demonstrated ability to lead organizational change, manage complex stakeholder relationships, and operate effectively in a politically and regulatory complex environment.
• Able to read, write, and comprehend English; able to follow verbal instructions.
• Experience with Word, Excel, Teams required.

Preferred Qualifications

• CPA, CMA, JD, or terminal degree strongly preferred. 
• Significant senior leadership experience in higher education, preferably within a public or state system environment.
• Familiarity with Pennsylvania construction, procurement, and regulatory requirements.
• Experience managing or contributing to a campus master plan, capital improvement program, and facility condition assessments.
• Experience with collective bargaining environments and public-sector labor relations.
• Experience in financial strategy related to enrollment management, auxiliary enterprises, and revenue diversification.

What We Offer

• Outstanding benefits package including benefits such as medical from date of hire, retirement contributions, employee wellness program, and paid leave
• Salary: Based on Experience
• Living by the Warrior Code:
  • Accountable for One's Actions
  • Committed to Self-Growth
  • Willing to Sacrifice for the Greater Good
  • Positive, Honest, and Loyal
  • Respectful of the Environment and Community
  • Dedicated to Empowering Others

Employment Eligibility & University Commitment:
Must be at least 18 years old and be able to read and write English. Employment with ESU is contingent on the selected candidate passing a thorough background check that includes: FBI fingerprinting, PA Child Abuse, and employment. We are proud ESU is an equal opportunity employer. For more information on President Long's 10-point plan, click here: https://www.esu.edu/president/10-action-plan.cfm