Description

JOB SUMMARY: 

The CFO will be a collaborative, creative, and strategic leader who is energized by the opportunity to position      Simmons College for the future vision and growth opportunities. The CFO will be responsible for providing

financial oversight, ensuring sound financial practices, and developing strategies to support the institution's long-term sustainability. This opportunity offers advancement to the permanent CFO position, with demonstrated success in the interim.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

        Lead and manage the financial operations of the college, including accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, and auditing.

        Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with the institution's strategic plan and goals, including ongoing capital campaign initiatives.

        Oversee the preparation of financial statements, reports, and projections for the President, Chief of Staff, Board of Trustees, and other key stakeholders.

        Effectively monitor and manage cash flow, revenue, and expenditures to ensure fiscal responsibility.

        Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements, including federal and state reporting, tax filings, and financial audits.

   Work closely with external auditors and financial consultants to ensure accurate reporting and internal controls.

   Collaborate with other senior leaders to assess financial performance and make recommendations for improvements.

        Manage and support the finance team, fostering a culture of accountability, professional growth, and continuous improvement.

    Provide financial guidance and insight to support the college's decision-making process, including future capital projects and operational sustainability.

   Participate in fundraising efforts, grant management, and the stewardship of financial gifts, including endowment management.

   Ensure alignment of financial strategies with Simmons College's mission, goals, and HBCU status. 

   Build donor confidence by demonstrating excellence in stewardship of gifts and awards.

        Ensure effectiveness of financial controls and compliance with donor restrictions and requirements.

         Identify trends, mitigate risks, and address areas for improvement.

 Other Duties as assigned.
 

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS: 

         Master's degree in finance, accounting, or a related field is required

        Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is preferred

        At least 8-10 years of progressively responsible experience in financial management preferred

        At least 5 years in a senior leadership role in higher education, non-profits, or mission-driven organizations preferred

        Proven experience with capital campaigns, endowment management, and complex budgeting and forecasting

        Strong knowledge of GAAP, federal and state financial regulations, and audit processes specific to higher education and non-profits

        Proficiency in financial management systems (ERP) and financial modeling tools

        Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and external partners

        Experience leading and developing a finance team, with a focus on accountability and performance improvement

        Demonstrated ability to identify trends, risks, and opportunities, and provide strategic recommendations

        Commitment to the mission and values of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) or similar organizations, with a passion for advancing equity and access in education

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

        Financial Acumen; In-depth understanding of financial operations, accounting standards, budget management, and financial reporting

        Leadership: Proven ability to lead, manage, and inspire a team within a dynamic and fast-paced environment, fostering collaboration and continuous improvement

        Strategic Vision: Ability to create and execute financial strategies that align with institutional goals, ensuring long-term financial sustainability.

        Analytical Skills: Expertise in analyzing complex financial data, developing budgets, and generating insightful financial reports to guide decision-making

        Problem-Solving Abilities: Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with a proactive approach to identifying risks and creating solutions

        Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present financial information clearly to both financial and non-financial audiences

        Technology: Proficiency in financial software systems, ERP platforms, and data analysis tools to enhance financial efficiency and accuracy

        Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders across the institution and externally.

        Ethical Judgement: High level of integrity, ethics, and responsibility in handling financial information and ensuring compliance

        Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a rapidly changing environment, effectively managing multiple priorities and adapting to new challenges

        Project Management: Strong project management abilities, including the capacity to oversee multiple initiatives, ensuring are met and goals are achieved

        Donor Stewardship: Ability to build and sustain donor confidence through excellent stewardship and transparent reporting