Chief Financial Officer

$225,000 - $260,000/Yr

New Mexico State University - Las Cruces, NM

Full-time - Executive

Las Cruces, NM

Educational Services

About the position

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at the New Mexico State University Foundation is a pivotal role responsible for overseeing the financial operations and strategic financial planning of the organization. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the CFO will lead the development and implementation of comprehensive financial policies and procedures that align with the Foundation's mission and objectives. This position is integral in ensuring the financial health of the Foundation, managing its accounting, finance, gift administration, and IT departments, and ensuring compliance with all relevant laws and regulations. The CFO will be tasked with presenting financial reports to the Board of Directors and various committees, providing insights into the Foundation's financial status and investment performance. This role requires a strong focus on internal controls, financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance with GAAP accounting standards. The CFO will also oversee the annual audit process, ensuring that all financial statements and supporting documentation are accurate and complete. In addition to managing the financial operations, the CFO will design and implement financial management procedures that enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness. This includes developing robust financial reports, forecasts, and analyses that support decision-making at all levels of the Foundation. The CFO will work closely with the Foundation's Outsourced Chief Investment Officer to optimize cash management and investment strategies, ensuring that the Foundation's financial resources are utilized effectively. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, with the ability to hire, train, and evaluate staff within the finance and accounting departments. The CFO will foster a culture of transparency and communication, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and engaged in the Foundation's financial operations. This role is not only about managing finances but also about building relationships and representing the Foundation at various professional events and conferences.

Responsibilities

• Direct the comprehensive financial activities for the New Mexico State University Foundation.
• Lead the development and implementation of sound financial policies and procedures.
• Work with external auditors and coordinate fiscal year-end audits and tax preparation.
• Present financial health reports to the Board of Directors and various committees.
• Manage the Foundation's Accounting, Finance, Gift Administration, and IT departments.
• Ensure compliance with Foundation policy, GAAP accounting standards, and state/federal laws and regulations.
• Develop and maintain internal controls and best practices for data entry and reporting.
• Oversee budgeting, accounting, financial reporting and analysis, capital asset administration, cash flow planning, and debt issuance.
• Design financial management procedures, policies, and business practices for operational effectiveness and compliance.
• Prepare timely, accurate financial reports including budgets, forecasts, and audit reports.
• Partner with the Outsourced Chief Investment Officer for cash management and investment strategies.
• Ensure effective communication between the Foundation Board and executive leadership.
• Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate finance and accounting staff.
• Represent the Foundation at professional organizations and conferences.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance; Master's degree preferred.
• Active Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license required.
• 10 years of increasingly responsible professional experience in higher education foundations or similar institutions.
• Knowledge of accounting standards related to higher education foundations and relevant laws and regulations.
• Extensive knowledge of Treasury and investment functions.
• Experience in implementing transformational change and strategic thinking in accounting processes.
• Ability to build and retain a strong team of professionals.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and business skills.
• Strong project management skills to meet deadlines.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in higher education or non-profit financial management.
• Familiarity with financial software and accounting systems.
• Strong networking skills within the higher education community.

Benefits

• Competitive salary including incentive compensation.
• Excellent benefits package.
• Relocation bonus (if applicable).