Chief Financial Officer - Creative Higher Education Leader

ZRG Partners, LLC.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbia College Chicago seeks a Chief Financial Officer to lead the College’s financial strategy, planning, and operations. Reporting to the President and serving on the senior leadership team, the CFO will align financial resources with the College’s mission, values, and priorities, modernizing systems and driving sustainable growth.

The role requires a Master’s degree in finance, accounting, or related field and at least ten years of senior financial leadership experience, preferably in

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field is required; CPA preferred.
• At least ten years of senior financial leadership experience, ideally within higher education or nonprofit.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing long-term financial plans and complex budgets; experience with ERP systems and data analytics.

Responsibilities

• Serve as senior financial advisor to the President and Board, providing data-informed guidance on all fiscal matters.
• Lead the development of annual and long-term budgets aligned with strategic priorities.
• Oversee financial planning, treasury, procurement, and risk management operations.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations and accounting standards.
• Partner with Advancement to strengthen endowed and restricted stewardship as well as unrestricted funds.
• Direct the College’s capital planning process and manage debt and liquidity strategies.
• Build and mentor a high-performing team of financial professionals focused on service, accountability, and innovation.
• Communicate complex financial information clearly to diverse audiences across the College community.

Skills

Strong interpersonal and communication

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Education

Master’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or related field

Tools

Oracle PeopleSoft

Ellucian

Data analytics tools

Job description

Columbia College Chicago seeks a Chief Financial Officer to lead the College’s financial strategy, planning, and operations. Reporting to the President and serving on the senior leadership team, the CFO will align financial resources with the College’s mission, values, and priorities, modernizing systems and driving sustainable growth.

The role requires a Master’s degree in finance, accounting, or related field and at least ten years of senior financial leadership experience, preferably in