Vice President for Financial Operations

VICE PRESIDENT FOR FINANCIAL OPERATIONS

THE OPPORTUNITY

The University of Washington invites applications and nominations for the position of Vice President for Financial Operations (VPFO). Reporting to the Senior Vice President for Finance, Planning & Budgeting/Chief Financial Officer, the VPFO is a senior leader responsible for overseeing the University’s core financial operations and ensuring the integrity, effectiveness, and continuous improvement of enterprise financial services.

ABOUT THE POSITION

The VPFO provides leadership for the University Controller’s Office, Treasury, Research Compliance & Operations (post-award sponsored programs), and Management Accounting & Analysis. This role partners closely with executive leadership to support institutional strategy, financial sustainability, and operational excellence across a complex, decentralized environment. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the financial stewardship and strategic direction of a leading public research university.

Key responsibilities include oversight of accounting, treasury, financial reporting, compliance, and audit functions; financial planning, forecasting, and analysis; and the development of policies and practices that safeguard University assets and ensure regulatory compliance. The VPFO also serves as a key advisor to senior leadership, providing data-driven insights to inform strategic decision-making.

The VPFO collaborates closely with UW Medicine finance leadership to align enterprise financial frameworks and identify opportunities for shared services and operational efficiencies, while advancing a service-oriented approach to financial operations that enhances the experience of the University community.

ROLE IMPACT

The ideal candidate will bring a combination of strategic vision, operational expertise, and collaborative leadership, along with a strong commitment to the University’s mission and values. Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree (master’s degree preferred) in business, finance, accounting, or a related field, along with substantial progressively responsible experience in financial operations within a complex organization. The successful candidate will demonstrate a proven track record in financial planning, budgeting, compliance, and managing diverse business functions, as well as experience leading high-performing, diverse teams in a matrixed environment and navigating higher education governance and business opportunities at an institution of comparable size and complexity.

Compensation: The salary range for this position is $275,000 - $340,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications.