Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Harcum College; Pennsylvania; On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A private educational institution in Pennsylvania seeks a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to provide strategic leadership in financial operations, oversee budgeting, and manage institutional assets. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in financial leadership, preferably in higher education, and an advanced degree. The role offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, contributing to the institution's sustainability and growth.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits

Generous paid time off

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years in mid- to senior-level financial leadership in higher education.
• Proven expertise in financial planning, accounting, and budgeting.
• Demonstrated ability to use technology to enhance financial operations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute financial strategies for sustainability and growth.
• Lead all financial functions including budgeting and reporting.
• Oversee institutional assets and implement risk management protocols.

Skills

Strategic financial planning

Accounting

Budget management

Analytic systems experience

Risk management

Effective communication

Education

Advanced degree (MBA, CPA)

Job description

Chief Financial Officer (CFO) – Harcum College

Harcum College invites applications for an accomplished and strategic senior leader to serve as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Reporting directly to the President, the CFO is a vital member of the President’s Cabinet and collaborates closely with the Board of Trustees. This role provides visionary leadership for the College’s financial strategy, operations, and planning, with a strong emphasis on leveraging technology to strengthen financial systems and enhance institutional effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Financial Leadership
  Partner with the President, Cabinet, and Board of Trustees to develop and execute short-term and long-term financial strategies that ensure institutional sustainability, growth, and resilience.
• Financial Operations Oversight
  Lead all financial functions, including accounting, budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and investment management. Ensure accuracy, transparency, and timeliness for internal and external stakeholders.
• Asset and Risk Management
  Oversee institutional assets—cash, investments, facilities, and equipment—and implement robust internal controls, risk management protocols, and insurance coverage to safeguard College resources.
• Board and External Relations
  Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Trustees Finance Committee, external auditors, investment advisors, and financial institutions. Represent the College in banking, procurement, contract negotiations, and real estate transactions.
• Budgeting and Capital Planning
  Direct the development and administration of the College’s annual operating and capital budgets. Advise the President on revenue and spending strategies.
• Technology and Systems Modernization
  Champion initiatives to modernize and improve financial and administrative systems, ensuring scalability, efficiency, and data-driven decision-making.
• Team Leadership and Development
  Supervise the Accounting and Business Services departments, including the Controller, Director of Business Services, Accounts Payable Specialist, and Staff Accountants. Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Institutional Engagement
  Provide regular financial updates and strategic guidance to campus stakeholders. Contribute to college-wide planning and policy development as a core member of the leadership team. Perform additional duties as assigned by the President.

Qualifications

Required:

• Minimum of five years in mid- to senior-level financial leadership within higher education highly preferred; may consider comparable non-profit experience.
• Advanced degree or credential (MBA, CPA, or equivalent).
• Experience with analytic systems related to enrollment and financial modeling.
• Proven expertise in strategic financial planning, accounting, budgeting, endowment management, and cash flow oversight.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with diverse internal and external constituencies.
• Track record of using technology to enhance financial infrastructure and operations.
• Hands-on, collaborative leadership style suited to a small, independent college.
• High integrity and sound judgment.

Preferred:

• Experience in broader business operations (e.g., facilities, IT, auxiliary services).
• Commitment to opportunity and inclusion in the workplace.

About Harcum College

Harcum College is a private, fully-accredited residential and commuter institution located in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. Renowned for its career-focused associate degree programs, Harcum serves approximately 1,000 students on campus, online, and at partnership sites across the state.

Harcum offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, including flexible plan options, a defined contribution retirement program, robust health coverage, and generous paid time off. The campus is located in an attractive suburban community within walking distance to rail service and a vibrant village setting.