VP Finance

the client seeks an experienced, innovative Associate Vice President for Financial Operations and Controller (AVP) to help drive strategic initiatives and operational excellence during a pivotal period. As a key member of the finance leadership team, the AVP will provide strategic oversight of core financial, transactional, and compliance functions, with an emphasis on modernizing operations, improving efficiency and accuracy, strengthening service delivery, and fostering a positive team culture. This highly visible role will serve as a trusted advisor and collaborative partner to internal and external stakeholders, with success reflected in effective financial stewardship, sound operational oversight, strong collaboration, and excellent interpersonal skills. reporting to the Vice President of Business Finance and Chief Financial Officer, the AVP will oversee the full scope of financial operations, including student financial services, accounting operations, financial reporting, payroll, grant accounting, and supply chain management. The role will focus on maintaining strong internal controls while enhancing customer service for students, faculty, staff, and business partners. Supported by an experienced team and established practices, the AVP will advance modernization efforts and help optimize financial sustainability aligned with the client’s institutional vision. Successful candidates will bring senior-level leadership experience in financial operations, accounting, and/or related disciplines, including demonstrated success leading complex teams and managing enterprise-wide change. The ideal candidate will be an effective communicator who can translate strategy into operational execution and build strong partnerships across the institution. Deep knowledge of financial stewardship, internal controls, compliance, GAAP/GASB, and risk management is expected, along with the ability to champion automation, process improvement, and data-driven decision-making in a large, complex organization.