Vice President for Finance and Treasurer

The Invitation

The Catholic University of America invites applications and nominations for the next Vice President for Finance and Treasurer.

Vice President for Finance and Treasurer

The Catholic University of America seeks a dynamic and strategic leader to serve as the Vice President of Finance and Treasurer (VPF&T). This senior executive role oversees the University’s financial planning, management, treasury, and operational strategies to ensure fiscal health and advance its mission of research, teaching, and service. Reporting directly to the President and serving as one of the key members of the senior leadership team, the VPF&T will provide visionary guidance to align financial strategies with the University’s long-term goals. The VPF&T is the chief financial officer and treasurer of the University.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Financial Leadership:

• Develop and execute financial strategies that support the University's mission and strategic priorities.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to design and implement multi-year financial plans, including tuition modeling, endowment management, and revenue diversification.
• Monitor economic trends and analyze their potential impact on institutional finances.

Financial Operations Oversight:

• Oversee all aspects of financial management, including accounting, budgeting, auditing, payroll, procurement, and financial reporting.
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulations, standards, and best practices.
• Support the Board of Trustees and Finance Committee by leading frequent communications regarding financial matters, providing accurate reporting, and engaging to provide guidance on relevant strategic and fiduciary issues.

Investment and Treasury Management:

• Serve as the primary steward of the University's endowment, ensuring prudent investment strategies aligned with Catholic values.
• Oversee treasury functions, including cash management, debt issuance, and liquidity strategies.

Institutional Risk Management:

• Lead enterprise risk management efforts, including assessing financial risks and developing mitigation strategies.
• Oversee the University’s insurance portfolio and ensure appropriate coverage.

Operational Efficiency and Innovation:

• Drive process improvements and cost-efficiency measures across financial and administrative functions.
• Leverage technology to enhance financial planning, data analytics, and operational performance.

Facilities Management:

• Develop and implement the next Campus Master Plan that needs to be approved by the District of Columbia.
• Balance the need for deferred maintenance with on-going capital projects.

Leadership and Collaboration:

• Provide mentorship and leadership to finance and administrative staff, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including donors, trustees, faculty, and government agencies, to achieve institutional objectives.
• Communicate complex financial concepts clearly and effectively to non-financial audiences.

Qualifications:

Education:

• Advanced degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field. CPA or MBA designation preferred.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of senior financial leadership and management experience, preferably in higher education, non-profits, or mission-driven organizations.

Skills and Competencies:

• Deep knowledge of financial operations, planning, and investment management.
• Proven ability to align financial strategies with organizational goals.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to engage diverse audiences.
• Commitment to ethical leadership and stewardship, consistent with Catholic values and the University’s mission.

Commitment to Mission:

• The successful candidate will preferably be a practicing Catholic and have a deep understanding of Catholic Education in the light of Ex Corde Ecclesiae and Veritatis Gaudium and a commitment to the identity and mission of The Catholic University of America, integrating faith, intellectual pursuit, and service in advancing the common good.