Vice President - Finance and Operations

A key member of the President's leadership team, the Vice President (VP) of Finance and Operations serves as a critical strategic partner and trusted adviser to the President, the senior leadership team, and the Punahou Board of Trustees.  

The VP acts as the chief financial, business, and administrative officer of the School, providing guidance and leadership to ensure the efficient and effective stewardship of Punahou's financial, physical, and human resources. This individual oversees all finance functions—including budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, long-range financial planning, asset management, liability management, and risk management—as well as a broad portfolio of non-finance operational functions. The VP plays a vital role in supporting the collaborative, innovative culture of Punahou, encouraging bold thinking, bringing wise counsel, and maintaining an unwavering commitment to the value of a Punahou education.

 Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Strategic Financial Acumen

• Develop and lead Punahou's long-term financial strategy in close partnership with the President and senior leadership team, ensuring alignment with the School's mission and objectives.
• Provide multiyear financial modeling, scenario planning, and forward-looking analysis to support high-level decisions, including capital priorities, program investments, and operational strategies.
• Advise on the financial implications of new initiatives, organizational changes, and external developments, balancing ambition with fiscal sustainability.Provide strategic oversight of the endowment ($490 million) and investment portfolio to ensure long-term fiscal stability.
• Evolve financial systems, processes, and reporting to strengthen clarity, transparency, and accountability for the leadership team.
• Attend all meetings of the Punahou Board of Trustees and work closely with standing committees (Audit, Risk, and Human Capital; Finance; Investment; and Buildings and Grounds).

Operational Leadership & Management

• Provide direct supervision and leadership to key department heads, including the Assistant Treasurer/Controller, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Information and Technology Officer, and Directors of Physical Plant, Food Service, Health Center, and Campus Safety and Security.
• Oversee non-finance operational areas, including Information Technology (IT), Facilities Planning, Development, Operations, Grounds Maintenance, Human Resources (HR), Food Services, the Health Center, Campus Security, Carnival coordination, and parent volunteer/legacy events.
• Leverage technology and integrate data-driven, metrics-based frameworks to enhance operational efficiencies and continuous improvement.
• Oversee and drive the implementation of a comprehensive enterprise risk management system while ensuring legal and regulatory compliance across all reporting functions.
• Cultivate a collegial, customer service-oriented, and proactive environment within the business office and collaborating operational teams.
   

Collaboration and Influencing

• Build strong, trusted relationships with academic and operational leaders, demonstrating a high EQ and an understanding of the perspectives of faculty and staff at all levels.
• Communicate financial and operational strategies effectively to a wide range of constituencies, maintaining a visible, engaged, and responsive presence on campus.
• Attract, develop, manage, and mentor a high-performing team of financial and operational talent, modeling integrity and establishing a high bar of excellence.
   

Minimum Qualifications

• Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) or a related graduate degree.
• Ten (10) years of experience providing strategic financial and operational leadership within a complex organization. Experience within a K-12 independent school or higher education institution is highly preferred.
• Proven track record of leveraging technology, data-driven analytics, and implementing enterprise-wide financial and risk management systems.
• Demonstrated experience building, managing, and retaining high-performing, multidisciplinary teams characterized by open communication and accountability.
• Deep appreciation for "place-based" learning, a mission-driven orientation, and a strong understanding of the culture, history, and values of Hawai'i. Global mindfulness and cultural agility to support equity and inclusion initiatives.

How to Apply

The Search Committee has retained Spencer Stuart to support this executive search. Inquiries, applications, and nominations may also be directed via email to PunahouCFO@spencerstuart.com. Please note that applications for this position will not be accepted through the general Punahou School careers webpage.