Associate Dean for Finance and Chief Business Officer – Dietrich College

Reference #: 2022460
The Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences embodies one of the most varied groups of students, faculty, staff, and alumni in the Carnegie Mellon University community, all united by a common goal: confronting and solving societys most complex problems. Dietrich College comprises 10 departments, institutes and programs. We work across traditional boundaries – where humanity and technology meet.

We are seeking an Associate Dean for Finance and Chief Business Officer.

As a senior member of the Dietrich College Deans Cabinet, this role supports the overall mission and strategic goals of the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University. The Associate Dean for Finance and Chief Business Officer will provide strategic leadership in financial planning, resource management, and operational efficiency across the college and ensure accuracy and compliance in finance and research operations.

Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Financial Leadership: Oversee and develop the colleges financial strategy, including resource planning, administrative processes, and financial forecasting. Ensure fiscal discipline and data-driven decision-making by providing clear financial models and guidance to departments. Provide proactive financial insights and help shape sound business practices, supporting the Colleges long-term financial growth and stability.
Team Leadership: Lead and mentor a team of business and budget managers, fostering professional growth and ensuring effective resource management and financial operations across the College.
Cross-Functional Collaboration and Strategic Partnership: Build and maintain relationships with key university stakeholders, including Financial Reporting, Budget, Research, Institutional Effectiveness offices, the Dean, Associate Deans, department heads, and the Provosts Office. Serve as a trusted business partner, providing financial insights to support complex financial matters, shaping strategic decisions, prioritizing initiatives, and ensuring alignment with both college and university-wide goals. Support college-wide research initiatives and ensure effective collaboration across departments. Represent and lead forward looking business objectives for the college on committees and leadership forums such as the Academic Leadership Group (ALG).
Operational Oversight: Oversee financial reporting activities such as accuracy and compliance in financial and research reporting. Oversee procurement and contract management, ensuring compliance with university policies. Ensure timely and accurate reporting for sponsored research activities. Work closely with central university offices (e.g. Finance Division, Provost Office, Office of the Vice President for Research to deliver accurate results.
Financial Modeling & Analysis: Create and maintain financial models using advanced tools (e.g., Oracle EPM, Tableau, Excel) for planning, analysis, and reporting. Offer actionable insights into the colleges financial performance and strategic priorities. Provide expertise in financial forecasting and modeling, aligning financial performance with the colleges short-, medium-, and long-term strategic goals.
Data-Driven Decision Making: Leverage comprehensive and accessible analysis and reporting to support decision-making for budgets, forecasts, and resource planning. Ensure accuracy and continual improvement of financial data. Conduct analyses of key metrics such as enrollment data, grant submissions, and resource allocation models.
Process Optimization and Continuous improvement: Evaluate and improve current financial practices to enhance efficiency, policy compliance, and cost-effectiveness. Leverage data analytics to streamline processes, reduce redundancy, and optimize resources. Participate in leading the development and implementation of new university systems.
Budget Management: Manage the colleges $75 million annual budget, ensuring a curate reporting, forecasting, and performance metrics. Regularly communicate financial performance and develop strategies that support academic and research objectives.
Sponsored Research & Compliance: Oversee sponsored research activities, ensuring compliance with funding requirements and supporting research initiatives. Lead procurement and contract activities for efficiency and compliance.
Human Resources Collaboration: Collaborate with university and college HR departments to support hiring, resource allocation, and staff development, contributing to university-wide initiatives.
Special Projects: Direct and contribute to special projects as needed, ensuring alignment with the Colleges and Universitys strategic objectives.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Requirements:
Education: Bachelors degree in business administration or related field.
Experience:
10 years of experience in finance, business administration or accounting.
5 years of experience in a complex organizational setting, such as higher education, healthcare, or similar environments.
5 years in financial forecasting and analysis supporting leadership teams
Experience with financial technologies, financial planning systems, and reporting tools is required.

Preferences:
Education: Advanced degree in business administration or related field.
CPA or MBA.

Ferra Executive Searchhas been retained to manage the search. If you have any inquiries or nominations, please send an email to:

Kevin Ferra, Founding Partner
Ferra Executive Search
kevin@ferrasearch.com

Please use Associate Dean for Finance and Chief Business Officer – Dietrich College as the subject line when you contact Kevin.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits available to eligible employees.

Those employees who are benefits eligible have the opportunity to experience the full spectrum of advantages from comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insuranceto an enticing retirement savings program offering a generous employer contribution. You can also unlock your potential with tuition benefits and take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays. Finally, rest easy knowing you are covered by life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Other perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and so much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits that may beawaiting you, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond just credentials, we consider the role and responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique skills and the diverse perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; its about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

LocationPittsburgh, PA
Job FunctionBusiness Administration and Services
Position TypeStaff – Regular
Full Time/Part timeFull time
Pay BasisSalary
More Information:

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