Chief Business Officer

The University of Arkansas, Fulbright College of Arts & Sciences seeks a collegial, creative, and strategically agile individual as its Chief Business Officer (CBO). This pivotal leadership role will support a distinguished college recognized for its academic diversity and nationally renowned programs. Reporting to the Dean of Fulbright and maintaining a dotted-line reporting relationship to the Vice Provost for Planning, the CBO will oversee and enhance the College’s business and financial operations, strategic resource planning, and data-informed decision capabilities in support of its educational mission. As a key member of the leadership team, the CBO will be a trusted partner to the Dean, other senior leaders, faculty, and staff of the College while also engaging with the broader University community. 

Interfacing with College leadership to develop and implement annual budgets for 19 schools and departments and 43 centers and programs, the ideal candidate will be an effective leader, natural collaborator, and skilled communicator who builds trusting relationships across Fulbright and beyond. The next CBO will have a strategic, decision-enabling mindset and keen financial acumen that will allow them to effectively advise and partner with College leadership and key stakeholders. 

The CBO serves as the primary advisor to the Dean on all financial and business operational matters of the College. This includes assisting the Dean in the oversight and stewarding of College budgets, which encompass over $110 million in instructional and research funds, and an endowment exceeding $350 million. The CBO will play a critical role in implementing the College’s strategic vision, with an emphasis on planning, accountability, and resource stewardship. 

In this capacity, the CBO will lead a dedicated team responsible for analyzing financial data and coordinating departmental requests while ensuring internal controls. They will uphold the principles of sound financial management and ensure compliance with budgetary policies and applicable financial regulations. 

Please direct all applications, nominations, and inquiries electronically and in confidence, as indicated below. All applicants must complete the following two-step process to be considered:

1. Apply via The University of Arkansas’ career site here. 
   
   
2. Apply (including resumes and cover letters responding to the opportunities and challenges outlined above) below.

 
Dan Rodas is leading this search with Karson Freeman and Nicole Sancilio.  

The University of Arkansas is an Affirmative Action/EOE institution committed to achieving diversity in its faculty and staff. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates, especially individuals who contribute to diversity of our campus community. The university welcomes applications without regard to race/color, sex, gender, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability, religion, marital or parental status, protected veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal or state law.  Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment. All applicant information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.