Vice President of Finance and Administration/Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Under the direction of the President, the Vice President of Finance and Administration/Chief Financial Officer (VP/CFO) serves as the College’s chief steward of financial and administrative resources. The VP/CFO provides strategic leadership, oversight, and accountability for all financial operations and selected administrative services in support of the College’s mission, vision, and strategic priorities.

The VP/CFO is responsible for ensuring the long-term financial stability, regulatory compliance, transparency, and operational effectiveness of the College. This role oversees budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, procurement, capital planning, and other administrative functions as assigned.

This role provides executive-level guidance to the President and Board of Trustees on financial and administrative matters, ensuring responsible stewardship of public funds while supporting innovation, operational efficiency, and institutional effectiveness. 

See the full profile at https://www.wilkescc.edu/vp-cfo-search/

Core duties will include the following:

1. Strategic Financial Leadership:

• Provide vision and leadership for the development, implementation, and monitoring of short- and long-term financial plans aligned with institutional priorities.
• Conduct multi-year financial forecasting, scenario planning, and sustainability analysis.
• Provide data-informed financial insights to support executive decision-making.
• Advise the President and Board of Trustees on the financial implications of strategic initiatives, enrollment trends, capital investments, and emerging opportunities.
• Align financial planning with enrollment trends, workforce demands, and community needs.

1. Budgeting and Fiscal Management:

• Direct the preparation, administration, monitoring, and revision of the College’s operating, capital, and grant budgets.
• Monitor revenues, expenditures, and cash flow to ensure fiscal integrity and long-term sustainability.
• Ensure effective financial controls, internal procedures, and sound fiscal practices.
• Oversee investment strategies and cash flow management.

1. Accounting, Compliance, and Reporting:

• Oversee all financial accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger operations.
• Prepare and/or review monthly and annual financial statements and required governmental reports.
• Ensure compliance with North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) policies, state statutes, and federal regulations.
• Serve as the primary liaison with external auditors, regulatory agencies, and funding entities.
• Maintain sound stewardship of public funds and restricted resources.
• Maintain transparency and accountability in all financial operations.

1. Administrative and Operational Oversight:

• Provide leadership and supervision for administrative units, including the business office, purchasing and procurement, shipping and receiving, bookstore, and auxiliary services.
• Oversee risk management and ensure adequate insurance coverage for the College.
• Promote operational efficiency, strong customer service, and continuous improvement across administrative functions.

1. Capital Projects:

• Ensure timely reporting, compliance, and fiscal accountability for capital projects.
• Collaborates with the Vice President of IT and Operations/CIO to support capital projects’ compliance with state reporting and financial requirements.

1. Leadership and Collaboration:

• Serve as a collaborative member of the President’s executive leadership team.
• Supervise, mentor, and develop finance and administrative services staff; promote professional growth and succession planning.
• Work closely with academic leaders, department directors, and campus stakeholders to support institutional effectiveness.

1. Board and External Relations:

• Prepare and present financial analyses, recommendations, and reports to the Board of Trustees and its committees.
• Serve as staff liaison to finance, buildings and grounds, and investment committees.
• Represent the College in interactions with county officials, state agencies, auditors, and community partners.
• d. Serve in an ex-officio capacity with the College Foundation Board.

1. Oversight of Administrative Units:

• Provide supervision and coordination for:
• Business Office and Financial Services
• Purchasing and procurement
• Auxiliary services (bookstore, events/hospitality (Walker Center), etc.)
• Campus Police

1. Other Duties:

• Perform other duties as assigned by the President in support of the College’s mission and strategic goals