Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer

About the Role

Carnegie Mellon University invites nominations and applications for the role of Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer. This position is a key member of the executive leadership team responsible for guiding the university's financial strategy, operational excellence, and long-term fiscal health in an increasingly complex and dynamic environment.

CMU enters this next chapter with a strong financial foundation. The opportunity for the CFO is to elevate the strategic financial stewardship of the institution and ensure that the excellence of financial systems, processes, and high-performing teams required to support the future of CMU are in place. Serving as a strategic thought partner to the president and senior leadership team, the CFO will act as the university's principal financial and business advisor and as a key point of coordination among deans, academic leaders, and business officers across a large, complex, and highly decentralized institution.

This role is pivotal, offering the chance to boost the impact of one of the world's most influential research universities. The successful candidate will be known for anticipating issues before they surface and identifying opportunities before they become apparent. By applying rigorous analysis, systems thinking, and sound judgment, the CFO will help university leadership navigate tradeoffs, allocate resources effectively, and position CMU for long-term sustainable growth. A central aspect of the role involves assessing continuously how the financial operating model supports CMU's academic and research priorities, leveraging the university's decentralized model as a source of innovation while strengthening enterprise-wide visibility and accountability.

In short, we are looking for a CFO capable of boldly positioning CMU for long-term sustainability and continued leadership as a global model for research, education, and impact.

Joining the Team

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits. Beyond credentials, CMU evaluates the role and responsibilities, valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. The university appreciates unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it's about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Employees can unlock their potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to a Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, and fitness center access.

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, please explore the Benefits page. To learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world, please visit "Why Carnegie Mellon."

Search Process and Instructions

Spencer Stuart, a global executive search and leadership advisory firm, has been retained by Carnegie Mellon University to support this search. While this position is posted in Workday for visibility, all applications, nominations, and inquiries should be submitted directly to Spencer Stuart.

For full consideration, all inquiries, nominations, and applications (CVs and letters of interest) should be sent electronically and in confidence to: CMUCFO@SpencerStuart.com. All submissions will be handled with strict confidentiality.

Important Note on Visa Sponsorship: Applicants for this position must be currently legally authorized to work for CMU in the United States. CMU will not sponsor or take over the sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity. Carnegie Mellon is not a qualifying employer for the STEM OPT benefit: only the 12-month OPT may be used to work at Carnegie Mellon.

Equal Opportunity

Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran. We value the whole package when extending offers of employment and appreciate the unique skills and perspectives candidates bring.