Vice President for Finance and Administration

Job Overview

The University of Dubuque is a growing faith-based University that is seeking an innovative and exceptional Vice President for Finance and Administration to join a committed team of higher education professionals for leadership and service. 

Position Summary:

The University of Dubuque (UD) seeks an innovative, strategic, and values-driven Vice President for Finance & Administration to lead the University's financial and operational strategy in alignment with its mission and long-term goals.  The Vice President for Finance and Administration serves as the University's chief financial strategist and operational leader, responsible for advancing institutional priorities through prudent management, strategic foresight, and collaborative leadership.  Reporting directly to the President and serving as a key member of the Cabinet, the Vice President provides executive leadership for financial planning, accounting, budgeting, investments, facilities, risk management, and administrative operations. 

Primary Responsibilities:

• Serve as chief advisor to the President and Board of Trustees on all financial and administrative matters
• Develop and implement multi-year financial strategies aligned with enrollment growth, endowment management, and capital planning
• Oversee all financial operations, including accounting, budgeting, audit, investments, and treasury functions
• Lead the University's enterprise risk management (ERM) framework and ensure compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards
• Provide strategic leadership for facilities, capital projects, and campus operations
• Partner with Cabinet colleagues to advance institutional priorities and foster a culture of transparency and accountability
• Manage key relationships with financial institutions, auditors, and investment advisors.
• Collaborate with community partners
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the University's Mission

Desired Abilities and Attributes:

In serving UD's Mission, the next Vice President for Finance and Administration should be:

• Collaborative Leadership: Build strong partnerships across campus and within the Dubuque community to align financial strategy with mission
• Strategic Stewardship: Lead long-term financial modeling and sustainability planning in an evolving higher education landscape
• Operational Excellence: Strengthen systems, processes, and data-informed decision-making to ensure fiscal responsibility and efficiency
• Campus Infrastructure: Oversee continued investment in UD's facilities to support academic innovation and student experience
• Mission Integration: Model values-based leadership that reflects UD's welcoming Christian ethos and commitment to service
• Community Partner: Build community relationships and strengthen partnerships that help establish the University as a knowledge enterprise in the Tri-State area

Qualifications:

Required:

• Master's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, or related field
• At least ten years of progressive financial leadership, preferably in higher education or non-profit settings
• Demonstrated success managing complex budgets and implementing multi-year financial strategies
• Strong understanding of GAAP, audits, and compliance in nonprofit and higher education environments

Preferred:

• CPA or equivalent credential
• Experience overseeing facilities, capital projects, or auxiliary services
• Familiarity with enterprise systems (e.g., Jenzabar or similar ERP)
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams and foster inclusive, values-based work cultures

For more information regarding the position and the University of Dubuque, please Click Here!

Review of applications will begin on December 31, 2025, and continue until the position is filled.  

Application materials must be submitted electronically using the UD Employment Application link and should include:

• A letter of interest addressing leadership qualifications and motivation;
• A current resume or curriculum vitae;
• A brief statement describing how one's values align with the mission and ethos of the University of Dubuque; and
• Contact information for three professional references (references will not be contacted without prior consent).

Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. For more information regarding the Jeanne Clery Act, please go to https://www.dbq.edu/SafetySecurity/JeanneCleryAct/