What are the responsibilities and job description for the VIce President for Business Affairs position at Chowan University?
The Vice President for Business Affairs serves as the chief financial and administrative officer of the University, responsible for the strategic leadership, oversight, and operational management of all business and auxiliary functions. This role ensures the institution’s financial integrity, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability through sound fiscal management, compliance, and data-informed decision-making.
Reporting directly to the President, the Vice President provides executive leadership across multiple administrative units, including the Business Office, Financial Aid, Human Resources, Maintenance & Grounds, Residence Life, Public Safety, Custodial Services, Food Services, Bookstore operations, and all institutional contracts. The position plays a central role in aligning financial strategy with institutional priorities, supporting student success, and maintaining a safe, effective, and mission-driven campus environment.
The Vice President collaborates closely with senior leadership, the Board of Trustees, and external stakeholders to guide budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation. This role also ensures the successful completion of all major annual financial processes, including audits, regulatory filings, and benefits administration.
Reporting directly to the President, the Vice President provides executive leadership across multiple administrative units, including the Business Office, Financial Aid, Human Resources, Maintenance & Grounds, Residence Life, Public Safety, Custodial Services, Food Services, Bookstore operations, and all institutional contracts. The position plays a central role in aligning financial strategy with institutional priorities, supporting student success, and maintaining a safe, effective, and mission-driven campus environment.
The Vice President collaborates closely with senior leadership, the Board of Trustees, and external stakeholders to guide budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation. This role also ensures the successful completion of all major annual financial processes, including audits, regulatory filings, and benefits administration.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Provide strategic leadership and oversight for all Business Affairs units.
- Supervise senior staff and foster accountability and professional development.
- Oversee all institutional contracts ensuring compliance and financial prudence.
- Lead development and monitoring of annual operating and capital budgets.
- Establish tuition, room, and board pricing strategies.
- Provide financial forecasting and analysis.
- Ensure completion of Form 990, Form 5500, financial audit, and retirement plan audit.
- Maintain strong internal controls and regulatory compliance.
- Oversee insurance programs and renewals.
- Oversee financial aid awarding strategy and compliance.
- Provide oversight of campus operations and auxiliary services.
- Serve as liaison to Board of Trustees committees.
- Participate in fundraising and university events.
REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES
- Strong knowledge of financial management and accounting principles.
- Understanding of higher education finance and compliance.
- Leadership experience managing multiple functional areas.
- Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- High level of integrity and accountability.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred).
- 8–10 years of progressively responsible leadership experience.
- Experience in higher education or nonprofit environment preferred.
- Demonstrated success in budgeting, audits, and organizational leadership.
- Experience working with governing boards preferred.