Salary/Position Classification

• 105,000+ annual, Exempt
• 40 hours per week
• This position will work onsite.

Purpose of Position

The Chief Business Officer (CBO) will be responsible for business and financial planning in alignment with the University’s and department's strategic goals. The position will lead financial and business matters, directing financial operations, including budgeting and accounting. The CBO provides leadership, oversight, and stewardship for all aspects of financial resources, promoting best practices in finance administration.

Reporting to the University’s Associate VP for Facilities, the CBO works collaboratively with University and Facilities leadership in providing strategic advice and recommending and implementing financial and administrative objectives, policies, and practices that ensure a sound financial structure for Facilities and its projects. The CBO keeps the AVPFM informed about the current financial position and works creatively to help sustain an environment of excellence through collaboration and innovation.

In carrying out these responsibilities, the CBO will be expected to evaluate short- and long-term strategic financial objectives continuously; produce forecasts and model strategic choices and alternatives; and advise on the financial implications of business activities, the costs of strategic priorities, and options for funding strategies. The CBO is responsible for all reporting and compliance related to fiscal activity and will suggest and lead efficiencies in managing financial processes.

All Facilities Management positions are subject to callbacks seven day a week, 24 hours a day. Weekend work as required.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Financial Vision, Leadership and Strategic Direction for Facilities Management
  • Develop goals and strategies related to financial management in alignment with the University’s and Facilities’ strategic goals.
  • Maintain effective communication with the AVPFM, keeping all parties informed of critical issues and concerns.
  • Review State Board of Higher Education (SBHE) submissions related to Facilities Management, as requested.
  • Coordinate business activities with various campus and community constituents.
  • Recommend and(or) develop the implementation of efficient methods, procedures or systems to enhance the fiscal functions.
  • 40% - Financial Analysis, Budgeting and Reporting
  • Direct and oversee the budget process for Facilities, following the UND budget model and budget guidelines.
  • Prepare management reports at the requested frequency to assist administration with prioritization and management decisions.
  • Analyze and report on financial variances and trends, and compare with the UND budget model.
  • Monitor the overall revenue and direct expenses for large complex operations, including appropriated, local, and grant funding, as well as recharge centers.
  • Guide and review the development of utility and recharge-center rates.
  • Analyze trends and provide short- and long-term financial plans.
  • Provide departments with accurate and timely information to make decisions.
  • Deliver insights and recommendations to key contacts in the department or key leaders in the division.
  • Understand funding sources and uses within the department.
  • Determine the appropriate account and fund code to use for revenue and expenses.
  • Monitor budgets and meet with key contacts regularly to review finances and perform continuous budget planning.
  • Collaborate with Facilities departments to review and refine projected revenues and expenses, prepare annual budgets, and update the budget module.
• Financial and Business Leadership
  • Build, maintain, and manage a cohesive team.
  • Foster opportunities for employee development and skill enhancement.
  • Develop a culture that emphasizes strong customer service skills, advocates for continuous process improvement, and strives for best business practices.
  • Interview and hire staff, conduct annual performance reviews, and provide ongoing coaching, and guidance.
  • Maintain consistent communication and provide feedback to clarify expectations and support employee performance.
  • Establish professional development plans and goals to help employees reach their full potential and meet quarterly to assess progress.
  • Lead and coach the team to retain staff.
  • Support the team through communication and planning.
  • Develop, implement, and maintain training tools and resources.
  • Lead the team to uphold exceptional teamwork and customer service across university departments.
  • Monitor workloads to ensure balance among the team and have adequate backup and coverage at all times.

Required Competencies

• Demonstrates strong communication skills—written, verbal, and active listening—articulating ideas concisely and persuasively, while adapting to the audience.
• Collaborates with others without direct authority and effectively navigates complex or ambiguous situations.
• Assesses situations, evaluates alternatives, and selects appropriate courses of action while considering potential risks.
• Possesses strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effectively manages pressure, handles multiple projects simultaneously, and consistently meets goals and deadlines.
• Takes initiative, is self-directed, and maintains a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Works collaboratively, treats others with respect, and contributes to team success.
• Maintains a positive attitude and adapts well to change; remains open to new ideas and approaches.
• Understands the broader strategic goals and aligns work accordingly.
• Seeks process efficiencies and provides value-added suggestions that align with customer needs.
• Applies industry knowledge to practical, day-to-day operations.
• Establishes priorities and organizes tasks logically to achieve objectives.
• Anticipates potential challenges and proactively adjusts plans to overcome changing circumstances.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, Data Analytics, or other related field.
• Five years of progressive responsibility and experience in a professional business environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Outlook, and advanced knowledge of data analysis functions of Excel, with the ability to generate a management summary of the data.
• Experience in complex budget preparation, planning, and financial management.
• Successful completion of a criminal history background check.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the US and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. This position does not support visa sponsorship for continued employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• MBA or CPA
• Experience with PeopleSoft software.
• Educational background or professional experience with governmental/fund accounting.
• Experience in Facilities Management.
• Experience in higher education.
• Experience with AssetWorks AiM or similar CMMS platforms.
• Experience with electronic procurement products, e.g., Jaggaer.