Senior Vice Chancellor For Finance & Administration

Description

Senior ViceChancellor for Finance & Administration

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville

February 2024

 

Position Summary

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK), home of the VOLS, has an unparalleled opportunity for a seasoned, transparent, forward-thinking, team-oriented executive to join its progressive Cabinet as Senior ViceChancellor for Finance & Administration (SVCFA).  Tennessee is a “University on the Rise” and this key leadership position is critical to maintaining that momentum and supporting the university’s tremendous post-pandemic growth and ambitious goals.  Reporting to the Chancellor, the SVCFA is the chief administrative officer for the state’s flagship, land-grant, R1 university and is charged with the fiduciary integrity of the institution and leadership for all financial, physical and safety resources.  The next SVCFA will have the opportunity to make major contributions to the continued success of UTK in areas of budget modeling and forecasting, master plan development and capital project planning, business process improvements, human resource and auxiliary innovations, physical security enhancements, support of student and faculty success, support of the university’s premier Athletics programs, among other rewarding engagements across campus and within the community.

The SVCFA is a key member and colleague on the Chancellor’s Cabinet and is a partner and peer to the leader of the campus’ academic enterprise, i.e., the Sr. Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs/Provost.  This position leads the Finance & Administration division which includes:  Budget and Finance, Facilities, Human Resources, Public Safety (Police, EHS, Emergency Management), and certain Auxiliaries/Campus Operations such as Parking and Transportation.  This executive will become a trusted, candid advisor to the Chancellor and will advocate for the Chancellor’s policies and directives once decisions are made.

The scope and scale of responsibilities are substantial including: oversight of a $1.9B annual operating budget for the university; management of a 910-acre campus with nearly 300 buildings, direction of a human resources department serving over 8,000 employees, and support of a fully accredited public safety department protecting 36,000 students plus employees and visitors, as well as oversight of a variety of infrastructure and service functions that support the efficient operations of the university.

Qualifications

Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field and at least fifteen (15) years of progressively responsible senior leadership experience (or a master’s degree plus at least ten (10) years of experience) in higher education administration or a position of comparable complexity in government, non-profit or private sectors are required.  The ideal candidate will have a successful track record in: navigating complex, decentralized organizations and achieving effective, mission-aligned business results; recruiting, developing and managing diverse and talented staff at all levels but especially senior level directors; and demonstrated business, finance and operations experience of similar scope and scale to UTK.

Experience at a large public institution, including a land grant and/or R1 university, is a plus, as is a CPA or other relevant certification.  Possession of or eligibility for a security clearance from the Department of State at a secret or top- secret level will be beneficial in this role.

 Ideal Personal Attributes, Knowledge or Skills

• Understanding of the purpose/role of “administration” in supporting the mission of the university.
• Exercises critical thinking, flexibility and efficiency in challenging situations.
• Excellent interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills.
• Encourages high morale and the delivery of quality, customer-focused services by all departments and personnel.
• Strong leadership and change management skills.
• A team-oriented leader who is competent to delegate as well as be hands-on when needed.
• Strong financial acumen related to finance, accounting, risk management, debt, forecasting, etc.
• A gifted communicator (verbal and written).
• Ability to establish credibility with Boards, University and System leadership, faculty, staff, civic and community leaders.
• Process redesign experience with proven results.
• Intellectually curious and remains competent and current through self-directed professional education.
• Data driven decision maker. 
• Ability to prioritize.
• High ethical standards.
• Prioritizes compliance with laws, regulations and standards applicable to activities of the division.
• Trustworthy, professional, discrete, confidential.
• Proven effectiveness in shared governance settings.
• Innovative problem solver.
• Confident but humble with ability to be decisive.
• Participant/leader in greater campus engagement, even during “off hours.”
• Understanding of the components and dynamics of a successful Division 1 athletics program.

Candidates should apply electronically with a cover letter addressing their interest in and qualifications for the role, curriculum vita/resume with a summary of accomplishments for each leadership role, and list of 5 professional references on or before February 26, 2024 to be assured of full consideration.  Confidential inquires or nominations may be directed to Brooke M. Swart, Senior Executive Recruiter at bswart@utk.edu.

Job: Executive/Administrative
Primary Location: US-Tennessee-knoxville
Organization: Sr Vc Finance & Administration
Schedule: Full-time
Job Posting: Feb 5, 2024, 8:31:59 AM