Vice President of Business and Chief Financial Officer

$325,000 - $375,000/Yr

Claremont Mckenna College - Claremont, CA

Full-time - Executive

Claremont, CA

1,001-5,000 employees

Educational Services

About the position

Claremont McKenna College (CMC), a prestigious national liberal arts institution, is seeking a Vice President of Business and Chief Financial Officer (VP/CFO) to join its leadership team. The VP/CFO will report directly to the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and will work closely with the President, becoming an integral member of the President's Executive Cabinet. This role requires regular engagement with the Board of Trustees, particularly the Finance Committee, to ensure sound financial governance and strategic oversight. The VP/CFO will be responsible for a wide range of functions including finance, payroll, student accounts, information technology services, food services, property management, and enterprise risk management. This position is crucial for shaping the future of CMC as it embarks on a new phase in its history, characterized by strong fiscal stewardship. With an annual operating budget of $140 million, the VP/CFO will play a key role in maintaining the College's strong financial position while supporting its mission to develop influential and entrepreneurial leaders. CMC is known for its commitment to diversity and excellence, consistently ranking among the top liberal arts colleges in the nation. The ideal candidate will possess a successful track record in leading and mentoring high-functioning teams, collaborating across campus, and implementing sustainable systems and processes. The VP/CFO will also need to demonstrate outstanding judgment, strategic decision-making skills, and a commitment to prioritizing student needs. As the College prepares for exciting campus expansions following a successful fundraising campaign of approximately $1.1 billion, the VP/CFO will be at the forefront of innovative financial strategies and initiatives that will enhance the educational experience at CMC.

Responsibilities

• Report to the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.
• Work closely with the President and serve as a key member of the President's Executive Cabinet.
• Engage regularly with the Board of Trustees, particularly the Finance Committee.
• Oversee finance, payroll, student accounts, information technology services, food services, property management, and enterprise risk management functions.
• Shape the future of CMC through strong fiscal stewardship.
• Manage an annual operating budget of $140 million.
• Collaborate with campus partners and the Board of Trustees for financial decision-making.
• Implement sustainable systems and processes using contemporary technology.
• Lead and mentor high-functioning teams across the College.

Requirements

• Demonstrated successful track record in financial leadership and strategy.
• Experience in managing large budgets and financial operations.
• Strong understanding of stakeholder management and collaboration.
• Ability to find solutions and problem-solve effectively.
• Experience in building sustainable systems and processes.
• Outstanding judgment and strategic decision-making skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in higher education finance.
• Familiarity with fundraising and financial campaigns.
• Knowledge of contemporary technology in financial management.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $325,000 to $375,000 based on experience and qualifications.