Dean of Finance / CFO

Job Summary

Generations College seeks a dynamic and experienced Dean of Finance (CFO) to join our executive leadership team. The Dean of Finance will serve as a strategic partner to the Chancellor, providing visionary leadership and oversight of the college’s financial and administrative functions.

The Dean of Finance reports directly to the Chancellor, serves as a senior cabinet member, and works closely with the Board of Trustees and its Finance and External Audit Committees. This role is critical to the institution’s financial sustainability and its capacity to support continued academic growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Leadership

○ Develop and implement financial strategies to ensure the long-term financial stability of the college.

○ Oversee budgeting, forecasting, financial planning, and analysis.

○ Manage the preparation of financial statements, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and internal policies.

○ Lead efforts to optimize financial resources, including investment strategies, fundraising support, and revenue-generating initiatives.

○ Oversee institutional operating and capital budgets, multi-year financial modeling, cash flow management, and long-term financial sustainability planning.

○ Direct the Business Office, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and student accounts.

○ Serve as the primary financial liaison to external auditors, lenders, and financial institutions.

• Strategic Planning

○ Collaborate with senior leadership to develop and execute the college’s strategic plan.

○ Provide insights and recommendations based on financial data to inform decision-making.

○ Lead initiatives to improve institutional performance and drive continuous improvement.

○ Serve as a strategic thought partner in enrollment growth, program expansion, and institutional transformation.

○ Leverage data analytics to inform decisions related to pricing, tuition strategy, resource allocation, and sustainability.

○ Assess the financial feasibility of new academic programs and delivery modalities.

• Risk Management

○ Identify and mitigate financial and compliance risks, including those arising under federal and state regulations and Title IV and Title IX requirements.

○ Ensure the implementation of robust internal controls and audit processes.

○ Oversee insurance and risk management programs to protect college assets, including property, liability, cyber, and employment practices coverage.

○ Maintain financial oversight of vendor and third-party agreements, including data-handling and contractual protections.

• Compliance and Accreditation

○ Lead financial compliance related to Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accreditation standards, and support new program approvals.

○ Oversee Title IV financial stewardship, audits, and reporting in coordination with Financial Aid leadership.

○ Ensure institutional compliance with federal, state, and accreditation requirements, including enrollment reporting, financial responsibility ratios, and audit readiness.

○ Coordinate required external reporting, including IPEDS, the annual A-133/Single Audit, and Form 990.

• Leadership and Development

○ Lead and mentor a team of finance professionals, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.

○ Promote professional development and continuous learning within the team.

○ Act as a key liaison with the Board of Trustees, providing regular updates on financial matters.

○ Model collaborative, service-oriented leadership across academic and administrative units.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in business administration, finance, accounting, or a related field.
• Minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in finance, including at least four (4) years in higher education or nonprofit financial management.
• Demonstrated proficiency with online banking platforms and accounting software required; experience with Sage (or similar financial management systems) strongly preferred.
• Proven track record of effective financial management and executive leadership.
• Strong strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience working with Boards of Trustees, Finance Committees, or Audit Committees.
• Familiarity with student information systems (Ellucian is a plus) and financial aid systems preferred.
• Self-starter with an entrepreneurial spirit and strategic orientation, demonstrating resourcefulness, innovation, and the ability to translate goals into measurable results.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to [EMAIL]@generations.edu. Applications will be evaluated and considered for employment on a rolling basis.

Generations College is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Attractive medical benefits
• Generous paid vacation
• Collaborative and inclusive work environment

About Generations College

Generations College, located in downtown Chicago, has a distinguished history and an exciting future. Founded in 1904, Generations College has been committed to providing its diverse student population with an exceptional education, while building students' self-confidence and encouraging lifelong learning.

Our campus is conveniently located in the historic Heyworth Building, just steps away from Millennium Park and excellent transport links.

In all programs of study, students receive a comprehensive, practical education unparalleled by any other two-year college. The College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and holds numerous program approvals by certified national agencies, including the American Bar Association and the National Court Reporters Association.

As the nation's third-oldest two-year, private, nonprofit institution, Generations College offers both campus-based and online Associate Degrees in Court Reporting, Criminal Justice, Business Administration, Entrepreneurship, and Paralegal Studies. We offer AI program minors and several baccalaureate degrees.

Why Generations College is a Great Place to Work

This is a hands-on leadership opportunity for a mission-driven finance executive who wants to shape the future of a historic institution at a pivotal moment of growth and transformation. Generations College supports and promotes its staff to grow and develop as lifelong learners. Our small yet dynamic team is comprised of passionate individuals who possess a collaborative spirit.

We work together to encourage our diverse student population by building their self-confidence and teaching the skills necessary to excel in our ever-changing, complex society. We are looking for talented individuals to join our team and help fulfill our mission to promote student success and challenge students at all levels of academic and personal preparation to achieve their greatest potential.