University of Washington - Seattle, WA
posted about 1 month ago
The UW-IT AVP and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is a unique opportunity to change lives on our campuses, in our state, and around the world. UW-IT employees offer their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills, and dedication to building stronger minds and a better world. By being deeply invested in our work, showing compassion in our interactions, and embodying the spirit of a team player, each member contributes to our thriving community. UW-IT is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff; your experiences, perspectives, and unique identities will be honored at the University of Washington. Together, our community strives to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable, and welcoming. UW Information Technology (UW-IT) is the central information technology organization for the University of Washington, responsible for strategic planning, oversight, and direction of the UW's information technology (IT) infrastructure, resources, and services. UW-IT provides critical technology support to all three campuses, UW Medicine, and research operations around the world, partnering with the UW community to enable innovation, learning, discovery, and service. The CFO for UW-IT plays a critical role in overseeing the organization's financial health and operational efficiency. Reporting directly to the CIO (Chief Information Officer) and serving as a key member of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT), the CFO provides leadership and direction in financial accounting, budgeting, procurement, contract management, asset management, and facilities oversight. This role ensures that UW-IT's financial practices align with the University's mission and support its teaching, learning, research, and innovation objectives across all campuses, UW medical centers, and global research operations. The CFO will join a highly effective, collaborative, and dedicated leadership team (the ELT) that values shared accountability, transparent leadership, and a strong commitment to each other and the University's mission. The ELT is deeply invested in fostering a culture of teamwork, mutual support, and compassion and embracing the importance of having fun and maintaining a positive work environment. The CFO is expected to commit to and contribute to this leadership culture. Position Complexities: The UW-IT CFO balances immediate fiscal management needs with long-term strategic planning. The CFO develops financial strategies to support the evolving goals of UW-IT and the University's new technology strategic plan. They manage within UW's complex financial landscape that includes diverse revenue streams, regulatory requirements, and the transition to a new university budgeting model. UW-IT is a large organization with an annual operating budget of $165 million and additional annual capital expenditures for strategic projects and technology renewal. Its revenue streams include annual university budget allocations, internal recharge for services, project funds and grants. This role requires the ability to work effectively across various stakeholder groups, including University leadership, faculty, and external partners, to ensure financial practices support the University's mission. Working in collaboration with other UW-IT leaders, the CFO must skillfully manage competing priorities, such as supporting innovation while maintaining financial sustainability and accountability. This involves understanding the unique needs of different departments and services, each with its own operational demands and expectations. The CFO plays a crucial role in fostering a culture of transparency, collaboration, and shared accountability within UW-IT. This requires not only financial acumen but also strong leadership, effective communication, and the ability to influence decision-making at all levels of the organization. As the University explores shared services and other financial innovations, the CFO must be agile, adaptable, and forward-thinking, ensuring that UW-IT remains a key contributor to the University's success. In summary, the CFO role demands a blend of strategic vision, operational expertise, and the ability to navigate the complexities of a large, dynamic educational institution.