Vice President for Business and Finance & Chief Financial Officer

Position Overview

The Vice President for Business and Finance and Chief Financial Officer (VPBF/CFO) serves as a key member of the University’s Executive Team and provides strategic leadership for the institution’s financial stewardship and business operations. The VPBF/CFO is responsible for the strategic management of Barry University’s financial resources, ensuring long-term fiscal sustainability, operational effectiveness, and alignment with the University’s mission and strategic priorities.

The VPBF/CFO also serves as Treasurer of Barry University, Inc. and provides executive oversight for core financial and administrative functions including accounting, budgeting, procurement, treasury operations, financial analysis, risk management, and legal affairs.

Key Leadership Responsibilities

• Institutional financial strategy, planning, and resource allocation

• Financial controls, compliance, and fiscal accountability

• Accounting, accounts payable, and financial reporting

• Operating and capital budgeting processes

• Treasury operations, debt management, and investment oversight

• Procurement and contract execution

• Property and risk insurance programs

• Oversight of legal affairs and the Office of General Counsel

• Continuous improvement, customer service, and operational efficiencies

Essential Functions

1. Direct all institutional financial activities, including fiscal controls, cost monitoring, financial analysis, third-party financing, budgeting, and compliance with debt covenants.

2. Ensure timely and accurate accounting of University records, serve as liaison with auditors, and ensure required filings and regulatory compliance.

3. Oversee cash management, working capital, endowment investments, and maintain strong relationships with financial institutions.

4. Serve as co-liaison to key Board of Trustees committees, presenting complex financial matters and supporting informed decision-making.

5. Monitor and maintain comprehensive property and risk insurance programs and represent the University through Florida Independent Colleges and Universities Risk Management Association, Inc. (FICURMA).

6. Partner with the President, Provost, and Vice Presidents to implement strategic plans, establish policies, and allocate resources across University priorities.

7. Develop strategies to mitigate risk, ensure compliance with federal and state laws, and provide oversight of legal matters through the Office of General Counsel.

8. Ensure divisional units deliver excellent customer service, implement continuous improvement initiatives, achieve efficiencies, and maintain transparent communication with stakeholders.

Organizational Leadership

The VPBF/CFO reports directly to the President and provides supervision of key administrative and financial leaders, including:

• General Counsel

• Controller

• Associate Vice President for Financial and Strategic Planning

• Director of Procurement and Accounts Payable

Fiscal Authority

• Oversight of the full University operating budget

• Authority to execute all University contracts

• Authorization of payments, purchase orders, and settlement runs

• Management of the University endowment

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree required

• Master’s degree preferred (or equivalent experience)

• CPA preferred

Experience:

• More than eight years of progressively responsible financial and leadership experience required.

Core Competencies:

• Advanced analytical and strategic thinking skills

• Strong business acumen

• Effective written and oral communication

• High-level executive judgment and decision-making

• Commitment to mission-driven leadership in higher education

Mission Alignment

As a member of the Executive Team, the VPBF/CFO plays a central role in determining and implementing strategies that advance Barry University’s Mission and Core Commitments to knowledge and truth, inclusive community, social justice, and collaborative service.

Barry University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment.