Chief of Staff to the Chief Financial Officer

Position Overview:

The Chief of Staff to the Chief Financial Officer will serve as a key resource in supporting the CFO in managing financial operations across various degrees, schools, and programs within the institution. This role will oversee the development, implementation, and tracking of financial-related projects, ensuring alignment with the College's strategic goals. Additionally, the individual will be responsible for managing the CFO's budget, calendar, and leading special projects as assigned by the CFO.

Key Responsibilities:

Project Management:

1. Lead and manage financial projects from conception through completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget.
2. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify project objectives, define scope, develop project plans, and track progress.
3. Monitor project performance using appropriate systems, tools, and techniques to identify and manage risks, and communicate project status to stakeholders.

Financial Oversight:

1. Oversee and manage the financial operations for specific degrees, schools, and programs, ensuring fiscal responsibility and alignment with the institution's goals.
2. Analyze and report on financial performance for these areas, identifying opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements.
3. Provide financial modeling, forecasting, and budgetary support to deans, directors, and department heads.

Budget Management:

1. Assist the CFO in developing and managing the overall budget for the college, including specific allocations to departments, schools, and programs.
2. Manage the CFO's budget, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and alignment with strategic goals.
3. Prepare and present financial reports, budget projections, and variance analyses to the CFO and other stakeholders.
4. Implement budget controls and ensure compliance with financial policies and procedures.

Calendar Management:

1. Coordinate and manage the CFO's calendar, including scheduling meetings, appointments, and ensuring time is allocated for key financial discussions.
2. Prioritize and handle urgent requests for time and meetings, ensuring alignment with the CFO's priorities.
3. Work closely with internal and external stakeholders to coordinate meetings, events, and other engagements.

Special Projects:

1. Lead special projects as directed by the CFO, ranging from financial analyses to strategic initiatives that impact the overall financial health of the institution.
2. Conduct research, compile data, and prepare reports to support the CFO in decision-making processes.
3. Manage ad hoc financial tasks and projects as they arise, adapting to changing priorities and needs.

Stakeholder Collaboration:

1. Work closely with the CFO and other senior leaders to align financial strategies with the institution's academic and operational objectives.
2. Serve as a liaison between the CFO's office and various departments, providing financial insights and support as needed.

Continuous Improvement:

1. Identify opportunities to improve financial processes, systems, and tools within the institution.
2. Stay informed of industry best practices, financial regulations, and trends that may impact the college's financial management.

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field; MBA or CPA preferred.
2. Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in financial management, project management, or a related role, preferably within higher education.
3. Strong knowledge of financial planning, budgeting, and analysis.
4. Proven experience in managing complex financial projects and budgets.
5. Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
6. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
7. Proficiency in financial software and project management tools (e.g., Excel, Questica, or similar platforms).

Core Competencies:

1. Leadership: Ability to lead projects and teams, driving financial initiatives to successful completion.
2. Analytical Thinking: Strong capability to analyze complex financial data and make informed recommendations.
3. Communication: Clear and effective communication, both written and verbal, to convey financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders.
4. Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously, including managing the CFO's calendar effectively.
5. Integrity: High ethical standards and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality and accuracy in financial reporting.

Application Materials Should Include:

1. Resume
2. Cover letter stating motivation and interest in the position, citing experience relevant to the qualifications and including experience with, and commitment to, our Catholic Augustinian mission, our values, and our desire to be a more diverse, equitable and inclusive institution of higher learning.

This position is subject to the successful completion of a criminal background check.

Vaccinations and Work Location:

This is an on-campus position as employees are essential in order to provide a fully on-campus, residential college experience for our students and the community.

The COVID-19 vaccine and booster for which an individual may be eligible are highly recommended for students, faculty and staff. Merrimack College does not require proof of COVID vaccination for enrollment, employment or to be a guest on our campus.

Statement on Our Mission:

Merrimack College is a Catholic Augustinian institution of higher education committed to building a culturally and racially diverse community. Our mission is to enlighten minds, engage hearts and empower lives and is inspired by our Catholic faith and the Augustinian tradition of seeking truth through inquiry and dialogue.

Merrimack College seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to Merrimack's Catholic and Augustinian mission and values and advance our work in the area of diversity, equity and inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from members of underrepresented groups. All candidates should describe in their application previous experience related to equity, diversity, and inclusion, as well as how they will engage in fostering a culture that supports our Catholic and Augustinian mission and our values of diversity, equity and inclusion.

About Merrimack College:

The only Catholic, Augustinian institution of higher education in New England, Merrimack College is a private, independent, coeducational institution with more than 4,000 undergraduate and 1,400 graduate students from 43 states and 42 countries. The College features more than 100 career-focused undergraduate, professional and graduate programs, all taught by exceptional faculty who are passionate about their subject and student success. The College's suburban 220-acre campus is just north of Boston in North Andover, Massachusetts. Merrimack is a Master's Colleges and Universities/Larger Programs (M1) institution in the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Merrimack is one of the fastest growing educational institutions in the country and has steadily climbed up in the U.S. News & World Report's ranking of Best Colleges, ranking 33rd in the Regional Universities North category in 2024. Merrimack is a NCAA Division I athletic institution.

Merrimack College is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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