The Vice President of Finance and Administration (VPFA) provides the leadership and strategic vision needed for expert management of the university’s financial resources and supervises the day-to-day budget, finance, investment, business, information technology, financial aid, auxiliary services, and facilities operations. This senior officer is a financial expert, a creative strategist, a collaborative partner, and an open communicator who successfully creates client-centered environments that value operational effectiveness.

      The VPFA oversees financial and administrative systems and operations, financial data management, and analysis, and develops, refines, and maintains financial systems in the university. Working with faculty and professional staff colleagues on all major issues, this senior administrator builds social capital and common purpose in a diverse community through effective collaboration and information sharing. The VPFA works with the President and Board of Trustees, as well as internal and external organizational constituencies, to provide transparent, accurate, and compliant processes.

Complete information is in the Search Profile at https://myersmcrae.com/skins/userfiles/files/DWU-VPFA.pdf.

• Deep expertise in budgeting and financial management
• Track record of improving budgeting and financial management within a complex organization
• Success working collaboratively as a trusted partner with multiple stakeholders
• Record of creating systems characterized by accuracy, timeliness, transparency, and accountability
• Extensive experience as a leader of varied support functions within a complex environment; preference for higher education/complex nonprofit experience
• Experience with modeling and forecasting different choices about the future
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Strong commitment to the mission and values of Dakota Wesleyan University
• Understanding of the culture of a United Methodist institution

About Dakota Wesleyan University

Dakota Wesleyan University (www.dwu.edu) was founded in 1885, in what was then Dakota Territory, by Methodist settlers. Its reputation has expanded worldwide since that humble beginning. Today, the university is home to an inclusive educational community fostering a transformative learning experience that cultivates enduring intellectual growth, ethically grounded leadership, intentional faith exploration, and meaningful service. Furthermore, 99 percent of DWU graduates would recommend the university to a student seeking a quality educational experience. The university is under the leadership of Dr. Daniel R. Kittle, who began his service as President in March 2022.

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