CHIEF FINANCIAL & OPERATIONS OFFICER, WBUR

Boston University - Boston, MA

Full-time - Senior

Boston, MA

Educational Services

About the position

The Chief Financial & Operations Officer (CFOO) at WBUR is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing the Finance and Business Office, Engineering, Operations, and IT groups. The CFOO provides financial expertise, leads operational planning, and ensures the reliability of broadcasting infrastructure while supporting strategic initiatives. This role is crucial for WBUR's financial sustainability and operational efficiency, reporting directly to the CEO and collaborating on budget planning and organizational objectives.

Responsibilities

• Oversee financial operations including accounting, treasury, accounts payable, accounts receivable, incentive compensation, grants, audits, and compliance.
• Develop and maintain financial strategies for budgeting and forecasting in collaboration with peer departments.
• Manage relationships with Boston University and external partners such as banks.
• Identify and mitigate financial risks, ensuring a controlled environment for accurate reporting.
• Review business opportunities and pertinent contracts to ensure sound business decisions.
• Lead and provide the CEO with insights on expenditures in line with budget commitments.
• Prepare and present financial results and modeling to the Board Committees.
• Support the stability and optimization of broadcasting towers and tools in collaboration with the Director of Engineering, Operations, and IT.
• Ensure proper management and scheduling of sponsorship ads.
• Manage facilities to ensure a safe and professional environment.
• Oversee IT needs and support technology projects as necessary.

Requirements

• Master's degree or equivalent experience with 12+ years of related experience, including 8+ years of demonstrated leadership experience.
• CPA preferred.
• Proven success in senior financial leadership roles within media, nonprofit, or digital organizations.
• Experience managing IT, IS, and technical operations alongside finance.
• Experience with mergers and acquisitions, guiding strategy, and executing deals.
• Expertise in nonprofit financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
• Strong operational management skills across IT and technical infrastructure.
• Proven ability to enhance financial closing speed and reporting accuracy.
• Experience building long-term financial models, particularly with recurring revenue streams.
• Ability to create high performing teams.
• Strong communication skills to provide meaningful input that drives discussions.