OPPORTUNITY PROFILE Vice President, Finance and Administrative Services
THE ORGANIZATION MOUNT ROYAL UNIVERSITY Since 1910, Mount Royal has built a reputation on a strong, liberal education foundation with an undergraduate focus. More than a century later, they remain responsive to the needs of our community through our enduring commitment to this legacy. MRU is a community of engaged citizens, providing personalized, experiential and outcome-based learning in an environment of inclusion, diversity and respect. Through their focus on teaching and learning informed by scholarship, they are preparing their graduates for success in their careers and lives. Recognizing that Mount Royal University is located within the traditional lands of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot), Îyârhe Nakoda (Stoney), Tsuut ina and Metis nations, MRU is committed to meeting the educational needs of all Indigenous peoples and their allies. By fostering an inclusive learning environment that values and respects Indigenous ways of knowing and learning, MRU is dedicated to providing an exceptional undergraduate experience for Indigenous and non-indigenous students. We are a community of engaged citizens, providing personalized, experiential and outcome-based learning in an environment of inclusion, diversity and mutual respect. Mount Royal University presently offers 12 four-year baccalaureate degrees with 31 majors, with a view to grow this mix to 15 degrees and 60 majors by 2025. Current degree offerings are unique, and include four-year bachelor degrees in interior design, midwifery, child studies and health and physical education, as well as arts, criminal justice, business administration, communication, computer information systems, education, nursing and science. Mount Royal also offers robust continuing education programming as well as an internationally-renowned music conservatory. Their faculty provide a teaching and learning environment that welcomes challenging ideas. Their staff are dedicated to supporting the campus so students are provided an exceptional educational experience. Their management team provides leadership throughout the University, and inspires others at all levels to be leaders in their own important sectors. In support of our students, and in response to our broader community, MRU knows that investing in their employees benefits the University as a whole. Talented and committed employees are the driving force behind student success and their faculty, staff and management are united in creating a thriving learning environment for MRU s students. Mount Royal University is an exceptional community focused on people Further information on Mount Royal University can be obtained on its website at www.mtroyal.ca. THE OPPORTUNITY VICE PRESIDENT, FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES Reporting to the President, the Vice-President, Finance and Administrative Services, leads the division as head of Administrative and Financial Services, and is a member of the University's executive team, with responsibilities for advising and assisting the President, and other University management on matters affecting the University. The Vice-President is responsible for planning, developing, monitoring, implementing and evaluating all of the Division's administrative services and activities, including Financial Services and Risk Management, Facilities Management, Information Technology Services, Human Resources, and Business and Retail Services. As a member of the Executive Committee, which advises the President, the Vice-President participates in decision-making and policy-making at the highest level with respect to matters affecting the University. The Vice-President provides advice to the Board of Governors, and in particular the finance committee, the audit and risk committee and the campus development committees of the Board. This position will also assist with overseeing the financial well-being of the University either acting as the CFO or supporting a CFO as a direct report. Current direct reports to the Vice President which support the overall Finance and Administrative Services portfolio include: AVP, Financial Services and Risk Management, AVP, Facilities Management, Chief Information Officer, Information Technology Services, AVP, Human Resources, and the AVP Business and Retail Services. MOUNT ROYAL UNIVERSITY Vice President, Finance and Administrative Services 1
Key Result Areas Specifically, the Vice President, Finance and Administrative Services will be responsible as follows: Ensure the overall efficient running of the Finance and Administrative Services area Provide strategic direction for the various portfolios; Develop and oversee the development of the institutional budget which reflects MRU s strategic priorities and academic direction; Deliver a reliable and predictable financial return from revenue generating operations; Develop and retain a talented management and support team; Build positive, effective relationships with external stakeholders; Ensure a proper risk management framework is established which encompasses not only financial risk but also, health and safety, technology, physical infrastructure and organizational reputation; Provide timely, accurate and relevant financial information to aid in institutional decision making; Develop and maintain respectful relationships with internal stakeholders; and, Ensure MRU is in compliance with relevant legislation, regulations and policies. Primary Duties and Responsibilities Oversees the development and coordination of financial plans and University budgets Ensures the University has in place effective financial management procedures, controls and audit procedures satisfactory to the President, Board of Governors, Advanced Education, Alberta Infrastructure and the Auditor General Provides a prime point of contact for the University with Advanced Education, Alberta Infrastructure and the Auditor General on financial and facilities related matters Identifies and ensures compliance with policies and procedures to invest and safeguard the funds available to the University Advises the President on a wide variety of issues, including sources of capital and operating funds for the University Assesses University exposure to risk of loss of assets and/or liability and prescribes risk management processes including insurance coverage to protect the University s interests Maintains an effective business relationship with the Students' Association concerning administrative and financial matters Identifies and recommends the organization structure, management systems and services needed to fulfill the functions of the division Recruits, appoints and monitors performance and development of direct reports Oversees the development and provision of information and communication technology and processes for instructional and administrative purposes Oversees the provision of an effective Human Resources service and control function Oversees the provision of other administrative support and services deemed necessary to fulfill the mandate of the University and to meet the needs of the University community Participates as a member of the President's Executive Committee in definition of University purpose and priorities and in assessing overall administration planning, organization and operational effectiveness of the University Provides advice to, and maintains relationships with the MRU Foundation and other affiliated societies and associations MOUNT ROYAL UNIVERSITY Vice President, Finance and Administrative Services 2
Maintains a profile in the Calgary and wider Alberta communities, including corporate contacts and affiliations Maintains contacts and relationships with colleagues from other post-secondary institutions as well as the provincial government Represents the University as required by making presentations, speeches, and other public appearances THE PERSON Required Qualifications A relevant undergraduate degree plus an MBA or professional business designation (typically a recognized Canadian accounting designation or CFA) is required. The successful candidate will possess demonstrated experience leading significant business process change. Able to build and lead a team that is committed to the strategic priorities of the University and its success as an institution. Strong leadership experience in one or more of the functions within the division (i.e. Financial Services, Human Resources, Information Technology Services, etc.) Familiarity with and understanding of the post-secondary setting in the public sector Experience leading and motivating large teams through change Leads and organizes people to achieve goals by providing clear directions and adapting leadership style as needed; serves as a role model for others by exemplifying the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, ethics and honesty Makes timely decisions and applies sound judgment to assess risks, evaluate alternatives and select the best course of action; uses a combination of analytical thinking, intuition, mental agility, and seasoned experience to address complex or ambiguous issues Must continuously assess and when required redesign programs that meet the changing needs of students and employees within a sustainable business environment. Must represent the University in a positive and professional manner with partners and affiliates. The individual will be a strategic thinker, with excellent written and verbal communication skills, and a strong working knowledge of financial and accounting principles. Given the nature of this position, a Criminal Record check will be required. Competencies and Personal Characteristics Team player, with a positive attitude, and an individual who is responsive, and receptive to input from all areas in the University Results-oriented and excels in an environment where there is a high level of accountability for outcomes Excellent business judgment, an entrepreneurial flair, and good negotiating as well as conflict resolution skills A "visionary" approach to the long term, coupled with determination to making things happen in the short term Demonstrated record of diligence and attention to detail Strong strategic sense and ability to see the big picture both today and for the future MOUNT ROYAL UNIVERSITY Vice President, Finance and Administrative Services 3
Strong communicator, coupled with very strong listening skills and the ability to understand and empathize with others A change agent, persuasive and capable of building support for new visions and direction. Strong interpersonal skills and an ability to develop rapport and credibility with people at all organizational levels and form strong relationships COMPENSATION A competitive compensation package will be provided including an attractive base salary and excellent benefits. Further details will be discussed in a personal interview. FOR INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Mike Kerr or Heather Fookes Davies Park 530, 1000 7 Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 5L5 Phone: (403) 263-0600 Email: calgary@daviespark.com Additional information can be found at: www.daviespark.com MOUNT ROYAL UNIVERSITY Vice President, Finance and Administrative Services 4