Executive Director or Director of Finance

NOTE: In addition to your application, please attach a cover letter, resume or any other applicable materials, including 3 references.

About The College of St. Scholastica: The College of St. Scholastica is a vibrant, inclusive educational community that is focused on preparing students for a lifetime of personal, professional, and civic success. With about 450 regular full and part-time employees and around 450 adjuncts spread across 30 states, the college is committed to providing high-quality education and services.

Job Summary: The Executive Director of Finance will oversee the daily financial operations of the college, ensuring financial health and stability. This role is crucial in supporting the strategic goals of the college through effective financial planning, analysis, and management. The Executive Director of Finance will work closely with senior leadership to align financial strategies with the college's mission and objectives. This role supervises the finance staff, which oversees financial budgeting, financial analytics and forecasting, accounts receivable, grants management, purchasing, student accounts, payroll, and the mailroom and receiving department.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Strategy and Planning:

• Under the direction of the Vice President for Finance and Strategy, implement financial strategies to support the college's mission and strategic goals.
• Lead the annual budgeting process, including forecasting and financial planning.
• Provide financial reporting, analysis and recommendations to senior leadership.

Financial Management:

• Oversee financial operations, including accounting, budgeting, and payroll
• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting.
• Manage cash flow and liquidity to ensure financial stability.
• Monitor and report on financial performance, identifying areas for improvement.

Departmental Oversight:

• Provide leadership and oversight to managers and their annual work plans.
• Ensure alignment of departmental goals with the college's strategic objectives.
• Support managers in developing and implementing departmental policies and procedures.

Purchasing:

• Oversee the college's purchasing activities through the purchasing manager to ensure cost-effective procurement of goods and services.
• Support the development and implementation of purchasing policies and procedures.
• Assist in managing vendor relationships and negotiations to secure favorable terms.

Student Accounts:

• Oversee the student accounts function through the student accounts manager, ensuring timely and accurate billing and collections.
• Support the development of policies and procedures to enhance student account operations.
• Provide oversight for financial aid disbursements.

Mailroom and Receiving Department:

• Oversee the operations of the mailroom and receiving department through the department manager to ensure efficient handling of all incoming and outgoing mail and packages.
• Support the development and implementation of policies and procedures for the mailroom and receiving department.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Ensure compliance with all financial regulations and standards, including GAAP.
• Oversee audits and manage relationships with external auditors.
• Develop and implement risk management policies and procedures.

Leadership and Collaboration:

• Lead and develop the finance team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with other departments to support their financial needs and objectives.
• Serve as a key advisor to the Vice President for Finance and Strategy and other senior leaders.

Qualifications:

• Education:
  
  • Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field. MBA or CPA preferred.
• Experience:
  
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in financial management.
  • Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience.
  • Experience in higher education or non-profit sector preferred.
• Skills:
  
  • Strong financial acumen and analytical skills.
  • Excellent leadership and team management abilities.
  • Proficient in financial software and systems.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Work Environment:

• The College of St. Scholastica offers a flexible work environment with potential for hybrid work.

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