Our client, a Private University based in Vienna, is a research-intensive university specializing in the fields of social sciences, humanities, law, public policy, and management. The University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs and enrolls more than 1,400 students from over 100 countries.

At the earliest possible start date, we are looking for a

Chief Financial Officer CFO (m/f/d)

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) plays a crucial role in shaping the university's financial strategy, ensuring long-term stability, and optimizing financial performance. This role goes beyond traditional financial management by integrating financial planning with university strategy.

Dimensions:

• Financial strategy and planning
• Financial performance and fiscal sustainability
• Financial reporting and compliance
• Risk management

Accountabilities:

• Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with the university's goals.
• Contribute to long-term financial planning and budgeting processes.
• Provide strategic recommendations to the Senior Leadership Team on cost optimization, efficiency improvements, and university growth.
• Lead long-term financial planning, including forecasting, budgeting, and scenario analysis.
• Present financial performance and strategic initiatives to the university's Board.
• Supervise all financial operations, including controlling, accounting, procurement, and treasury functions.
• Lead the implementation of the university's internal Finance Management Tools (SAP S4 HANA).
• Help develop and maintain effective risk management strategies.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, accounting standards, and company policies.
• Supervise and mentor financial staff, including accountants, analysts, and other financial professionals.
• Promote a collaborative, high-performance environment.
• Collaborate with external stakeholders, including auditors, regulators, and university partners.

Requirements:

• Master's degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or related field; MBA or CPA preferred.
• At least 10 years of experience in financial management, with a proven track record of leadership in senior finance roles.
• Strong understanding of financial modeling, financial analysis, and corporate finance principles.
• Extensive knowledge of accounting standards, financial regulations, and compliance requirements, especially in Austria.
• Experience with financial systems and ERP platforms (e.g., SAP, or similar).
• Understanding of structural, organizational and inter-personal needs of an University
• Fluent in German and English

Competencies:

• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present complex financial information to both financial and non-financial stakeholders.
• Proven ability to lead and develop teams in a dynamic environment.
• Ability to thrive in complex university.
• Strong business acumen and strategic thinking abilities.
• High degree of integrity, professionalism, and accountability.

The annual gross salary starts at appr. Euro 140,000. Our customer is willing to pay higher based on the quality of your experience and professional background.

Wir freuen uns auf Ihre rasche und aussagekräftige Onlinebewerbung mit Lebenslauf und Anschreiben!
Ihre Ansprechperson für diese Position ist Frau Sabine Leutner

Onlinebewerbung

Schira & Leutner Personalberatung

Fleischmarkt 1/6 • A-1010 Wien • www.schira-leutner.at