Senior Vice President for Finance, Planning & Budgeting and Chief Financial Officer

The University of Washington (UW) seeks a strategic, dynamic, and proven financial leader to serve as its next Senior Vice President for Finance, Planning & Budgeting and Chief Financial Officer (SVP/CFO).

The SVP/CFO reports to the President, with a secondary reporting line to the Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs for academic planning support, budgeting, and institutional analytics. The SVP/CFO occupies a critical position at the University, joining a highly collaborative executive leadership team that advises the President, the Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, and the Board of Regents in determining institutional priorities, goals, policies, and programs. As the chief financial officer of the University, the SVP/CFO is responsible for the stewardship of the University’s resources, including accountability for its financial performance in alignment with its mission and goals. The SVP/CFO plays a crucial role within the UW by directing the central business, planning, and analytical services that support the University's mission, and by ensuring alignment, risk mitigation, efficiency, and effectiveness of the University's financial resources and operations.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a mission-driven finance leader to join a dynamic university located in one of the most vibrant cities in the world. Ideal candidates for this position will have deep experience leading the finance and budget functions of a major research university, a collaborative orientation, stellar communication skills, and a commitment to the UW’s mission and vision.

A master’s degree and a minimum of eight years of progressive experience in finance, budgeting, enterprise operations, state operations, or related field in a higher education setting are required for consideration. An equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills have been acquired may substitute for a degree.

Founded in 1861, the University of Washington (UW) is one of the oldest state-supported higher education institutions on the Pacific coast and is recognized as one of the top 10 universities in the world, top 20 public universities, and top 50 universities nationally by U.S. News & World Report. As one of the world’s leading public research universities, the UW is driven by a determination to serve the public good. With operations on three campuses—Seattle, Bothell, and Tacoma—and an annual budget of $11.75 billion ($1.8 billion general operating fund), the University is a vital economic engine for the state of Washington and a center for research and scholarship across the globe. The UW employs more than 4,000 faculty members, has a consolidated endowment of $5.5 billion (FY2024), and boasts a diverse range of academic programs and a robust health sciences enterprise, UW Medicine. As the fifth largest employer in the state of Washington, the UW supports a sustains a total of over 100,000 jobs, with an annual economic impact of $15.7 billion.

The base salary range for this position will be $525,000-$575,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

All interested candidates should submit an updated CV and/or resume and a two to three page statement of interest that discusses your interest and relevant experience below.

All nominations and inquiries regarding the position should be submitted below as well. The position will remain open until it is successfully filled. All correspondence can be addressed to the Isaacson, Miller representatives noted.

Courtney Wilk-Mandel and Rebecca Kennedy are leading this search with Carley Davenport and Cara Meyers. 

Committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff, the University of Washington will honor your experiences, perspectives, and unique identity. Together, our community strives to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable, and welcoming.

The University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact uwcfo@imsearch.com.

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.