Vice President for Fiscal Affairs/Chief Business Officer (CBO)

Williams College; Alberta; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Canada is seeking a Vice President for Fiscal Affairs to oversee financial health and management. The role requires collaboration with senior leadership and a strong background in finance and administration. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in higher education finance, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to ethical practices. This position offers a chance to shape the financial strategy of a transformative institution dedicated to student success.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of leadership experience in finance and administration.
• Proven expertise in budget preparation and financial administration.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a member of the President’s senior leadership team.
• Develop and oversee the University's annual budgeting process.
• Manage financial reporting and ensure compliance with regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Collaboration

Communication

Financial Management

Ethical Leadership

Education

Advanced Degree in Finance

CPA Designation

Tools

Financial Management Software

Job description

Albany State University is accepting nominations and applications for the position of Vice President for Fiscal Affairs (VPFA)/Chief Business Officer (CBO) to serve as the University's primary executive officer responsible for the overall financial health and fiscal management of the institution. Reporting directly to the President, the VPFA/CBO plays a key role in shaping the University's financial strategy and will collaborate with the senior leadership, deans, faculty, and staff to support the University's mission, strategic goals, and fostering a financially sustainable future for the University.

At Albany State University (ASU), we offer more than just a job — we provide a chance to be part of a transformative institution dedicated to shaping the future. With a rich history, a strong commitment to education, and an innovative approach to learning, ASU is a place where both students and staff thrive.

With over 6,800 students, ASU is a dynamic, student-centered university that blends academic rigor with a supportive environment. As a proud Historically Black College and University (HBCU) with more than 100 years of excellence, ASU has been a cornerstone of higher education, empowering individuals to succeed both in the classroom and beyond.

Nestled in the heart of Southwest Georgia, Albany offers a vibrant, peaceful setting that combines the charm of Southern living with the energy of a growing community. Surrounded by the beauty of nature — from pecan groves to pine forests — Albany provides an ideal backdrop for both professional and personal fulfillment, offering the perfect balance between work, recreation, and tranquility.

Key Responsibilities:

Executive Leadership & Management

• Serve as a member of the President’s senior leadership team, contributing to the University's strategic planning and decisions.
• Partner with other senior executives to align financial and strategic priorities across the University, enhancing its regional, state, and national presence.
• Provide executive-level advice and counsel on financial matters and institutional planning.
• Collaborate with various departments, including academic, student affairs, and administration, to meet the University's mission, goals, and operational needs.
• Supervise directors of units within the Division of Finance and Administration, ensuring effective performance and teamwork.

Financial Strategy & Planning

• Develop, manage, and oversee the University's annual budgeting process, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities.
• Analyze and project budget allocations, expenditures, and investments, making recommendations to ensure fiscal responsibility.
• Communicate financial information regularly to University leaders, budget managers, and other stakeholders to ensure alignment with budget constraints and approved variances.
• Prepare and present detailed monthly and weekly financial reports, including profit and loss statements, forecast vs. budget comparisons, and cash flow analyses by division.
• Lead efforts to create and refine financial models and forecasting tools that support informed decision-making.

Financial Management & Reporting

• Oversee the University's cash management, investments, and asset management to ensure funds availability and financial stability.
• Manage financial reporting, including preparing monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and coordinating all external audits and tax filings.
• Ensure all financial records comply with local, state, federal, and accrediting body regulations.
• Supervise the management of accounts receivable, accounts payable, and other business services.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Oversee the University insurance and retirement programs, ensuring that risk management processes are effectively assessed and implemented.
• Develop and monitor policies for procurement, contracts, and purchasing, ensuring cost-effectiveness and compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
• Serve as the key contact for external auditors, ensuring that audits are completed on time and effectively.
• Oversee all tax return filings and ensure compliance with financial regulatory standards and reporting requirements.

Leadership of Finance Division

• Lead the finance and administration division, fostering an inclusive, transparent, and performance-driven culture.
• Provide professional development opportunities to staff within the Division of Finance to stay current on fiscal management trends and best practices.
• Oversee recruitment, selection, and performance evaluations of management personnel within the finance division.
• Promote collaboration within the division and the broader University community to ensure financial goals are met.

General Administration & University-Wide Responsibilities

• Participate in campus-wide committees, providing leadership on financial matters and supporting institutional planning efforts.
• Contribute to the University's public and internal communications, promoting the institution’s financial health and strategic initiatives.
• Attend University events and activities as a member of the senior leadership team, representing the University with internal and external stakeholders.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the President.

Required Qualifications

• An advanced degree in finance, business, accounting or related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible leadership experience in finance and administration, with a distinctive record in higher education. Employment in other professional or corporate endeavors will also be considered.
• Proven expertise in budget preparation, financial administration, and fiscal stability in complex organizational settings.
• Strong background in financial management software.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, collaborate, and communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, including students, faculty, staff, alumni, and donors.
• Strong work ethic, integrity, and a commitment to upholding ethical leadership principles and practices.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is preferred; an earned doctorate or terminal degree is highly preferred.
• Experience in financial systems implementation and oversight, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting tools.
• A deep understanding of the financial and operational challenges facing higher education institutions.
• Strong executive presence and the ability to make data-driven decisions in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with experience in preparing executive reports and presentations for various audiences.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Demonstrated leadership abilities with a history of guiding teams and organizations toward success.
• Ability to engage staff, students, and external stakeholders with empathy, emotional intelligence, and a collaborative mindset.
• Resilience and poise under pressure, with a capacity to make thoughtful decisions in challenging situations.