Chief Financial Officer - San Francisco Bay University

About San Francisco Bay University:

San Francisco Bay University (SFBU), a nonprofit, WASC-accredited, university situated in the heart of Silicon Valley in Fremont, California, seeks an experienced Chief Financial Officer.  SFBU’s mission is to offer inclusive, innovative, and inspirational education for lifelong careers and our vision is to set the standard as a national model of higher education in service of the common good.

At SFBU, students come first. We prioritize students’ needs by fostering personal engagement among students, faculty, and staff. We are committed to providing affordable quality education with a deep commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice. Our professors are accomplished professionals who provide real-world experience in the classrooms to enhance the learning experience and prepare students for future careers. Our student body is reflective of the rich cultural diversity of the world, supported by a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. Moreover, our university captures the vibrancy of Silicon Valley. SFBU is in growth mode and we are looking to make a difference in our communities by enhancing access to affordable education for all students. We encourage you to learn more about SFBU by reviewing our strategic plan at https://www.sfbu.edu/strategic-plan.

Position Overview:

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) reports directly to the university president and has a broad range of responsibilities for finance and business operations. The CFO is responsible for the financial management of the university, including financial reporting, cash and investments management, budgeting, forecasting, audit, tax, and financial analysis. The CFO reports to the President, serving as a key advisor and strategic thought partner to the president and leadership team.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain long-range financial plans. Collaborate closely with the president and division leaders to align strategic, operational, and financial planning.
• Provide financial analysis and support to the university’s leadership, and serve as a key advisor on financial issues and decisions that impact the institution.
• Serve as liaison to the Finance Committee, Audit Subcommittee, and Investment Committee of the Board of Directors.
• Develop the finance and accounting team by determining key roles, recruiting and retaining top talent, and equipping the team with the resources to perform their jobs.
• Develop and implement financial policies and procedures to ensure the financial stability of the university.
• Ensure that financial internal controls are in place for the university.
• Oversee management of the university’s financial systems, including the general ledger.
• Oversee the preparation of financial statements and reports, including monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Manage the university’s budgeting process, including coordination with division leaders to ensure alignment with central budget planning.
• Manage the university’s cash flow and investments, including the development of and compliance with investment policies and strategies.
• Oversee any short- or long-term borrowings.
• Oversee the university’s real asset portfolio and financial investments in land and buildings. Coordinate with the chief operating officer on financial planning for maintenance and renewal of the university’s facilities.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations, including tax laws, accounting standards, and financial reporting requirements.
• Oversee preparation for external financial, governmental, and other audits conducted on an annual or periodic basis. Address findings and implement necessary changes.
• Participate in professional development to maintain current knowledge and skills in all areas of responsibility.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of non-profit higher education finance including working familiarity with FASB and GAAP accounting standards, non-profit fiduciary duties, and student revenues including tuition discounting and federal Title IV financial aid.
• Skill in leadership, change management, and collaborative problem solving.
• Skill in strategic financial planning, analysis, and modeling
• Skill in complex analytical thinking
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to communicate technical financial concepts and information to general audiences.
• Knowledge of financial management software and systems.
• Skill in developing financial policies and procedures that are clear, user-friendly, and promote a strong control environment.
• Ability to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset and assume responsibility for contributing to SFBU’s growth.
• Cultural competence and ability to work effectively with diverse constituencies in a diverse community.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in financial management, preferably in a higher education setting.
• 5+ years of experience in a senior management or executive role.
• Technical fluency with Microsoft Office Professional Suite, and Google mail and calendaring programs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field.
• CPA or CMA certification.
• Experience in a senior financial management role in a higher education setting.
• Experience with departmental development
• Experience with Salesforce and/or Sage Intacct

Salary Range:  $240,000 - $280,000

Application Materials:

•       Current CV/resume.

•       Letter of interest that attends to the responsibilities noted in the position profile and describes your leadership approach, and commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice.

•       Applications will be reviewed beginning March 29, 2024 and continue until the position is filled.

This position description is not intended to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time, with or without notice.

SFBU is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer: SFBU is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. SFBU does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law.