Strategic CFO & VP of Finance for Higher Education

Columbia College; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbia College in Columbia, South Carolina, seeks a Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer to guide the College's financial strategy and long-term sustainability. Reporting to the President and serving on the Executive Council, you will translate complex financial information into clear guidance for the Board and leadership.

The successful candidate will lead budgets, forecasting, and financial planning, advise on enrollment and tuition investments, and oversee accounting,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, business, economics, or related field.
• 7+ years of progressively responsible financial leadership experience.
• Ability to translate financial data into actionable recommendations for executives and boards.
• Higher education experience, private college preferred.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead financial strategy, annual budgets, multi-year forecasts, financial models, and scenario analyses.
• Advise President, Executive Council, and Board on enrollment strategies, programs, tuition, financial aid investments, partnerships, and capital projects.
• Oversee accounting, financial reporting, treasury, student financial services, internal controls, audits, compliance, and restricted funds.
• Strengthen budget management and promote data-informed resource allocation and operational effectiveness.
• Oversee facilities, capital planning, and auxiliary services until a COO role is established.

Skills

Strategic finance

Executive communication

Forecasting & modeling

Cross-functional leadership

Higher education knowledge

Education

Bachelor's in finance

Master's degree

CPA preferred

Job description

Columbia College in Columbia, South Carolina, seeks a Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer to guide the College's financial strategy and long-term sustainability. Reporting to the President and serving on the Executive Council, you will translate complex financial information into clear guidance for the Board and leadership.

The successful candidate will lead budgets, forecasting, and financial planning, advise on enrollment and tuition investments, and oversee accounting,