Careers

Wichita State University Foundation and Alumni Engagement (WSUFAE) is seeking a strategic, mission-driven leader to serve as our next Vice President of Finance and Operations. Reporting directly to the President and CEO, this executive will serve as a trusted advisor on key matters including financial planning and performance, investments, internal controls, governance, IT, and organizational operations. As a member of the senior leadership team, the Vice President will play a critical role in shaping institutional strategy, strengthening infrastructure, and advancing WSUFAE’s long-term fiscal health and operational excellence.

This role oversees a broad portfolio that includes accounting and financial reporting, investment management, gift processing, records compliance, facilities, and information technology. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in nonprofit finance, strong investment acumen, and proven records of leading high-performing teams across administrative functions. A commitment to the core values of integrity, excellence, and collaboration, and service is essential, as is the ability to foster trust and build strong relationships with university leaders, board members, donors, and external partners.

The job duties for this position include:

1. Strategic and Executive Leadership:
   • Serves as a strategic partner and advisor to the President and CEO on financial, operational, and governance-related issues.
   • Actively contributes to WSUFAE leadership team, helping to shape strategy and institutional decision-making.
   • Foster collaborative relationships with WSUFAE leadership and management team, university leadership, volunteer leadership, and external partners.
   • Evaluate organizational needs, proactively develop systems and procedures, and effectively resolve issues and concerns.

2. Financial Management and Accounting:
   • Oversee all accounting operations, including financial reporting, internal controls, cash flow management, and compliance with applicable regulations and standards.
   • Prepare and manage annual budgets and forecasts in alignment with strategic goals.
   • Ensure sound fiscal policies and practices to support short- and long-term organizational sustainability.

3. Investment Oversight
   • Provide fiduciary oversight of WSUFAE’s investment portfolio in coordination with the Board of Directors and the Investment Committee
   • Assist with the selection and evaluation of investment consultants and fund managers.
   • Monitor investment performance against benchmarks and provide regular reports to stakeholders.

4. Gift Processing and Records Management
   • Oversee the accurate and timely processing of all charitable gifts.
   • Ensure that gift documentation complies with donor intent, audit standards, and IRS regulations.
   • Maintain strong internal systems for donor records and reconciliation with development functions.

5. Information Technology Oversight
   • Provide strategic direction and operational oversight of IT infrastructure, systems, and cybersecurity.
   • Ensure technology resources meet the current and future needs of the organization.
   • Supervise IT team and manage third-party service providers where applicable.

6. Facilities Management
   • Oversee the management and maintenance of physical office space and facilities.
   • Ensure facilities are safe, functional, and conducive to staff productivity.
   • Manage vendor relationships and capital improvements related to physical infrastructure.

7. Governance, Compliance, and Board Support

• Support the activities of the Investment, Operations, real Estate, and Audit Committees and providing fiduciary oversight.
  • Coordinate meeting schedules, prepare materials, and ensure follow-up on committee decisions.
• Prepare reports and documentation for executive committee and board meetings.
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, policies, and donor agreements.

8. Audit and Risk Management
   • Serve as the primary contact for annual audits.
   • Coordinate audit planning, fieldwork, and reporting processes with external auditors.
   • Address any audit findings and implement recommended improvements.

9. Team Leadership and Administration
   • Provide leadership to the finance and operations team by mentoring, supervising, and evaluating staff.
   • Promote a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and service excellence.
   • Keep the department informed of organizational priorities and university developments.
   • Provide backup support for administrative staff when needed.
   • Maintain computer and paper files as necessary

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field from an accredited institution
• Minimum ten years of progressive leadership experience in accounting (preferably fund accounting), finance, or operations
• Advanced knowledge of investments
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with a focus on collaboration and professional development.
• Proven experience overseeing accounting, investments, IT, facilities, and gift processing
• Strong understanding of nonprofit financial standards, investment strategy, and compliance
• Commitment to the WSUFAE core values of Integrity, Service, Excellence and Collaboration
• Project professional image at all times

Skills

• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• High degree of professionalism, ethical sensitivity, and discretion; ability to maintain a commitment to confidentiality; good judgment and proven responsible decision-making skills.
• Ability to understand computer logic and analysis
• Highly motivated and demonstrated ability to be an effective leader
• Ability to collaborate with colleagues from a variety of disciplines.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, oral and written communication skills
• Highly motivated and ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team

Physical Requirements

• Frequent and sudden movements from sitting, standing, bending, reaching, and walking
• Frequent standing or sitting for prolonged periods
• Occasional climbing of stairs
• Occasional lifting up to 40 pounds
• Occasional exposure to outdoors and hot and inclement weather
• Frequent ability to travel (fly/drive/train or other public transportation – day and overnight)

Preferred Requirements and Skills

• Master’s Degree from an accredited institution
• Certified Public Accountant certificate
• Experience working in higher education or foundation settings
• Knowledge of Wichita State University and a commitment to higher education

Apply Today

Whether you are just starting your career or are an experienced professional, we invite you to submit your resume for future opportunities with us.

Position Overview: This job posting serves as a general application for individuals interested in future roles across various departments and teams within WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement. While we may not have a specific position that fits what you are looking for at this moment, we are continuously growing and always looking for new team members who bring unique skills and perspectives.

If you are interested in being considered for any future opportunities, please submit your resume and indicate your areas of interest and expertise. We will keep your information on file and contact you when a relevant position becomes available.

Who Should Apply: We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and with a variety of skill sets. Ideal applicants should possess:

• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• A passion for education and giving back
• A desire to contribute to a positive work culture

How to Apply: Please submit your resume along with a brief cover letter outlining your skills, areas of interest, and why you would be a great fit for our team. Be sure to include any relevant experience, certifications, or projects that demonstrate your qualifications.

WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement is an equal opportunity employer and strives to provide a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.

We look forward to reviewing your application and exploring how you can contribute to our future success!

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