Chief Financial Officer at San Francisco Bay University

San Francisco Bay University (SFBU), a nonprofit, WASC-accredited, university situated in the heart of Silicon Valley in Fremont, California, seeks an experienced Chief Financial Officer. SFBU’s mission is to offer inclusive, innovative, and inspirational education for lifelong careers and our vision is to set the standard as a national model of higher education in service of the common good.

At SFBU, students come first. We prioritize students’ needs by fostering personal engagement among students, faculty, and staff. We are committed to providing affordable quality education with a deep commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice. Our professors are accomplished professionals who provide real-world experience in the classrooms to enhance the learning experience and prepare students for future careers. Our student body is reflective of the rich cultural diversity of the world, supported by a dynamic and inclusive learning environment.

Moreover, our university captures the vibrancy of Silicon Valley. SFBU is in growth mode and we are looking to make a difference in our communities by enhancing access to affordable education for all students. We encourage you to learn more about SFBU by reviewing our strategic plan at

Position Overview:

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) reports directly to the university president, with a dotted line to the chief operating officer, and has a broad range of responsibilities for finance and business operations. The CFO is also an institutional officer under the corporate bylaws and reports to the President, serving as a key advisor and strategic thought partner to the president, chief operating officer, and leadership team. The CFO is responsible for the financial management of the university, including financial reporting, cash and investments management, budgeting, forecasting, audit, tax, and financial analysis. The CFO is also responsible for overseeing the university’s risk management and compliance functions, ensuring that all financial activities align with legal, regulatory, and operational requirements. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain long-range financial plans. Collaborate closely with the president, president’s cabinet, and division leaders to align strategic, operational, and financial planning with special attention to the connection between enrollment and net tuition revenue.

• Provide financial analysis and support to the university’s leadership, and serve as a key advisor on financial issues and decisions that impact the institution.

• Serve as liaison to the Finance and Investment Committee, Audit Committee, of the Board of Directors.

• Develop the finance and accounting team by determining key roles, recruiting and retaining top talent, and equipping the team with the resources to perform their jobs.

• Develop, implement, and maintain financial policies and procedures to ensure the financial stability of the university.

• Ensure that financial internal controls are in place for the university.

• Oversee management of the university’s financial systems, including the general ledger.

• Oversee the preparation of financial statements and reports, including monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.

• Manage the university’s budgeting process, including coordination with division leaders to ensure alignment with central budget planning.

• Manage the university’s cash flow and investments, including compliance with investment policies and strategies.

• Provide overall monitoring of the Investment Advisors ensuring conformity with the contract terms. Oversee any short- or long-term borrowings.

• Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations and required reporting, including tax laws, accounting standards, financial reporting requirements

• Oversee preparation for external financial, governmental, and other audits conducted on an annual or periodic basis. Address findings and implement necessary changes.

• Coordinate with the chief operating officer in managing the university’s real estate asset portfolio.

• Coordinate with the Chief Operating Officer on financial planning for capital projects, maintenance, and renewal of the university’s facilities.

• Oversee the university’s risk management and compliance efforts, ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements and internal policies, monitoring of key risk indicators, and implementation of mitigation plans

• Participate in professional development to maintain current knowledge and skills in all areas of responsibility.

• Supervise the Compliance Officer and Controller (with a dotted line to Accountants, Associate Director of Student Aid, and Bursar) by providing mentorship, managing performance, and fostering a collaborative work environment.

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field.

• 10+ years of experience in financial management, preferably in a higher education setting. 5+ years of experience in a senior management or executive role.

• Technical fluency with Microsoft Office Professional Suite, and Google mail and calendaring programs.

• Master’s degree in finance, accounting, or related field.  CPA or CMA certification

• Experience in a senior financial management role in a higher education setting

• Experience with departmental development

• Experience with Salesforce and/or Sage Intacct.

• Knowledge of non-profit higher education finance including working familiarity with FASB and GAAP accounting standards, non-profit fiduciary duties, and student revenues including tuition discounting and federal Title IV financial aid.

• Skill in leadership, change management, and collaborative problem solving.

• Skill in strategic financial planning, analysis, and modeling skils in complex analytical thinking.

• Knowledge of relevant regulations and compliance issues, which is crucial for maintaining corporate governance.

• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to communicate technical financial concepts and information to general audiences.

• Knowledge of financial management software and systems.

• Skill in developing financial policies and procedures that are clear, user-friendly, and promote a strong control environment.

• Ability to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset and assume responsibility for contributing to SFBU’s growth.

• Cultural competence and ability to work effectively with diverse constituencies in a diverse community.

Salary:

$240,000 - $280,000, depending on experience.

Application Materials:

• Current CV/resume.

• Letter of interest that attends to the responsibilities noted in the position profile and describes your leadership approach, and commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice.

• Applications submitted by November 10, 2024, will be given priority consideration

This position description is not intended to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time, with or without notice.

SFBU is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer: SFBU is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. SFBU does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law.