Vice President of Finance and Administration/Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Wilkes Community College is seeking an executive-level financial and administrative leader to guide the campus through strategic budgeting, compliance, and operational stewardship. The Vice President of Finance and Administration / Chief Financial Officer (CFO) will oversee all facets of financial planning, accounting, and administrative services from an onsite location in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, and will play a pivotal role on the college’s executive leadership team.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Financial Leadership: Provide vision and leadership for the development, implementation, and monitoring of short- and long-term financial plans aligned with institutional priorities. Conduct multi-year financial forecasting, scenario planning, and sustainability analysis. Provide data-informed financial insights to support executive decision-making. Advise the President and Board of Trustees on the financial implications of strategic initiatives, enrollment trends, capital investments.
• Budgeting and Fiscal Management: Direct the preparation, administration, monitoring, and revision of the College’s operating, capital, and grant budgets. Monitor revenues, expenditures, and cash flow to ensure fiscal integrity and long-term sustainability. Ensure effective financial controls, internal procedures, and sound fiscal practices. Oversee investment strategies and cash flow management.
• Accounting, Compliance, and Reporting: Oversee all financial accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger operations. Prepare and/or review monthly and annual financial statements and required governmental reports. Ensure compliance with North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) policies, state statutes, and federal regulations. Serve as the primary liaison with external auditors, regulatory agencies, and funding entities. Maintain sound stewardship.
• Administrative and Operational Oversight: Provide leadership and supervision for administrative units, including the business office, purchasing and procurement, shipping and receiving, bookstore, and auxiliary services. Oversee risk management and ensure adequate insurance coverage for the College. Promote operational efficiency, strong customer service, and continuous improvement across administrative functions.
• Capital Projects: Ensure timely reporting, compliance, and fiscal accountability for capital projects. Collaborates with the Vice President of IT and Operations/CIO to support capital projects’ compliance with state reporting and financial requirements.
• Leadership and Collaboration: Serve as a collaborative member of the President’s executive leadership team. Supervise, mentor, and develop finance and administrative services staff; promote professional growth and succession planning. Work closely with academic leaders, department directors, and campus stakeholders to support institutional effectiveness.
• Board and External Relations: Prepare and present financial analyses, recommendations, and reports to the Board of Trustees and its committees. Serve as staff liaison to finance, buildings and grounds, and investment committees. Represent the College in interactions with county officials, state agencies, auditors, and community partners. Serve in an ex-officio capacity with the College Foundation Board.
• Oversight of Administrative Units: Provide supervision and coordination for: Business Office and Financial Services; Purchasing and procurement; Auxiliary services (bookstore, events/hospitality, Walker Center, etc.); Campus Police.
• Other Duties: Perform other duties as assigned by the President in support of the College’s mission and strategic goals.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, public administration, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Significant progressively responsible experience in financial management, budgeting, and fiscal oversight.
• Demonstrated experience in financial reporting, internal controls, compliance, and audits.
• Strong analytical, communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage professional staff.

Posting Details

• Posting Number: 10512P
• Open Date: 04/15/2026
• Close Date: 05/29/2026
• Open Until Filled: Yes
• Desired Start Date: 10/01/2026
• Review Start Date: 06/01/2026
• Special Instructions to Applicants: Applicants must complete the Wilkes Community College online application process which includes a cover letter, a resume, four (4) professional references, and unofficial college transcripts (if hired, official college transcripts will be required). Applicant must be able to successfully pass a background check.
• Note: It is important that you check the email that you listed on your applications. Updates for this position will be sent via email.