University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Associate Vice Chancellor for Finance

Academic Career & Executive Search is pleased to assist the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in its search for Associate Vice Chancellor for Finance.

Applications will be reviewed and presented to the University on a rolling basis. For best consideration, please apply early.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock) as Associate Vice Chancellor for Finance (AVCF) and lead a division critical to the support of the university’s growth and mission. With UA Little Rock experiencing its highest enrollment in 15 years and benefitting from significant capital investments in campus beautification, the university is positioned for continued growth and transformation. As one of the leading research institutions in the region, the university provides a vibrant intellectual environment with access to advanced resources, collaborative partnerships, and innovative initiatives. This is a hands-on role for a leader who thrives in a small, close-knit organization and is comfortable engaging directly in the day-to-day business operations. Working closely with the Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration (VCFA), the AVCF will provide accountability and transparency to the people of Arkansas while ensuring careful management of the university’s financial resources.

This position reports to the VCFA and leads the Bursar’s Office, Financial Services, and Procurement Services, ensuring the highest level of service and support for the university community in financial planning, operations, and reporting. The successful candidate will provide direction and oversight for these divisions while maintaining open communication with the VCFA. A thorough understanding of and willingness to operate within state and federal laws, as well as agency and institutional policies, is essential.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Provide direct supervision and oversight of all business service functions including but not limited to Financial Services (general accounting, accounts payable, financial reporting, payroll, banking, and cash management), Procurement Services, and the Bursar’s Office. Oversee the implementation, testing, and modifications of all software related to these offices.
Review the university’s annual financial statements and other required financial reports prior to submission to the University of Arkansas System office and other regulatory agencies.
Serve as the Workday Finance Lead for the university ensuring effective collaboration with the University of Arkansas System Office in maintaining Workday Finance business processes.
Develop and coordinate ongoing Workday Finance training for campus end-users.
Collaborate with the VCFA to perform analysis of financial data.
Assist the VCFA with campus-wide strategic planning initiatives.
Manage departmental employees, including hiring, supervising, promoting, and implementing appropriate training programs.
Prepare numerous fiscal reports and analyses for both internal management and external officials.
Provide strategic leadership and vision for the finance division using excellent programs, initiatives, and partnering, and ensure collaboration, communication, and engagement in finance initiatives.
Develop, implement, and ensure compliance with policies and procedures dealing with financial and business affairs.
Serve as the university official for student appeals related to student fees and account balance.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Thorough understanding of higher education administration.
Ability to provide leadership and direction to diverse groups of individuals.
Strong organizational skills.
Ability to work independently.
Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to interact effectively with academic leaders, faculty, staff, and students.
Strong supervisory and dispute resolution skills.
Strong time management and planning skills.
Ability to work collaboratively with internal and external constituents.
Excellent oral and written communication skills with an ability to relate to a broad range of university constituents.
Ability to employ discretion and good judgment in decision making.
Possess a high level of proficiency in Microsoft Office software applications.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field of study in a business discipline from an accredited college or university.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license.
Minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in accounting or financial management in progressively responsible positions.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Master's degree in business, accounting, or finance from an accredited college or university.
Experience in a higher education setting with Workday and/or SunGard Banner Systems is preferred.

About the Institution

UA Little Rock is part of the flagship University of Arkansas, one of the nation’s top public research universities. The Carnegie Foundation classifies the university as having "the highest possible level of research," placing them among the top 3% of colleges and universities nationwide. Founded in 1871 as a land-grant institution, the University serves students representing 49 states and more than 100 countries, with 10 colleges and schools offering more than 265 academic programs. At UA Little Rock, more than 8,900 students are prepared to be innovators and responsible leaders in their fields. Committed to its metropolitan research university mission, UA Little Rock is a driving force in Little Rock's thriving cultural community and a major component of the city and state's growing profile as a regional leader in research, technology transfer, economic development, and job creation.

Living in the Area

Little Rock, Arkansas, nestled in the scenic Ouachita Mountains, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and progressive city life. Home to the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, the city has a youthful energy, with a population of students, educators, and professionals contributing to its dynamic atmosphere. The state Capitol includes a vibrant downtown area, featuring boutique shops, diverse restaurants, and a bustling farmers’ market. The River Market District, with its array of restaurants, shops, and local markets, is a central hub for socializing and exploring. Little Rock has several galleries, theaters, and live music venues, which adds to its rich cultural landscape.

Nature lovers are drawn to Little Rock for its proximity to outdoor activities. The city is surrounded by beautiful parks, hiking and biking trails, and lakes, such as Pinnacle Mountain State Park, located just outside the city. The area offers hiking, mountain biking, and stunning views of the surrounding area. The Arkansas River Trail, which stretches for miles along the river, is perfect for walking, running, and cycling. This blend of urban and outdoor living makes Little Rock a versatile and balanced place to call home. With temperate weather, these areas provide year-round opportunities for adventure, from kayaking to mountain biking. The nearby Ozark National Forest also offers plenty of opportunities for camping, fishing, and exploring, making Little Rock a haven for those who enjoy outdoor living.

The city's relatively affordable cost of living, especially compared to larger metropolitan areas, is one of its strongest draws. Housing prices are generally lower, and the overall cost of living is below the national average, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle. The city is known for its friendly, tight-knit community, and continues to grow with new businesses, tech ventures, and developments providing more opportunities for residents to thrive.

To Apply
Applications will be reviewed and presented to the University on a rolling basis. For best consideration, please apply early.

Please apply through the application link and do not email applications. Applications will be reviewed as they are received and should include a cover letter and curriculum vita. Ideally cover letters should not exceed two pages. All applications are treated confidentially. Inquiries, referrals, and nominations are also treated confidentially.

Inquiries and questions: Please send to UALittleRockAVCFinance@acesrch.com.
Nominations and referrals: Please send the nominee’s name, title, and contact information if available to nominations@acesrch.com.

Institution’s EEO Statement
The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, marital or parental status, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, or sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity). Federal law prohibits the University from discriminating on these bases. Questions or concerns about the application of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, may be sent to the University's Title IX Coordinator and to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.
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University of Arkansas at Little Rock - Associate Vice Chancellor for Finance