Purdue University Fort Wayne (PFW), one of seven institutions and entities comprising the Purdue University public system in Indiana, seeks a visionary, collaborative, and forward-thinking leader to serve as its next Vice Chancellor for Financial and Administrative Affairs (VCFAA). Reporting to the Chancellor of Purdue Fort Wayne and serving as a key member of the university’s senior leadership team and Chancellor’s staff, the VCFAA plays a primary role in budget development and management, financial planning for the institution, and strategic planning and implementation as the senior fiscal steward of resources for PFW.
The VCFAA will oversee a broad portfolio, providing leadership and direction for the units, programs, and services in the Office of Financial and Administrative Affairs, which may include accounting services, administrative business services, budget and planning, the bursar and student finance, NCAA Division 1 athletics, facilities management, human resources, purchasing and support services, and the university police department. An innovator, builder, and entrepreneur, the VCFAA also represents Purdue Fort Wayne to a wide range of external constituents who interact with the institution, as well as the primary connection to Purdue University’s main campus in West Lafayette regarding issues of policy and finance. Purdue University Fort Wayne’s FY 2023-2024 annual expenditures totaled $150 million, and the university has an endowment of approximately $84 million.
The VCFAA will address a set of key opportunities and challenges to help ensure the university’s ongoing success, including leading and managing the Office of Financial and Administrative Affairs with transparency, forward-thinking, and open communication; reviewing and revising the budgeting process to ensure greater participation and communication; implementing state-of-the-art systems and business solutions utilizing metrics and data to drive decision-making and promote proactive financial management; managing effectively the unique relationship between Purdue University Fort Wayne and Purdue University in West Lafayette; applying creative revenue generation and cost management best practices to establish substantial financial and strategic reserves and help achieve strategic planning goals; establishing an effective, trusting working connection with the faculty and faculty senate to provide good feedback, timely communication and transparency; and maintaining external relationships with important constituents at the state level, in financial industries, and other potential partners. The successful candidate will adopt a transparent, straightforward, and inclusive decision-making style, with the ability to explain financial policy clearly and understandably.
Purdue University Fort Wayne has retained the services of Isaacson, Miller—a national executive search firm—to assist in conducting this important search and to help identify outstanding candidates. All confidential inquiries, nominations/referrals, and resumes with cover letters should be directed to the search firm electronically via the Isaacson, Miller website at https://www.imsearch.com/open-searches/purdue-university-fort-wayne/vice-chancellor-financial-and-administrative-affairs.
Dan Rodas, Partner
Amy Gillespie, Senior Associate
Nicole Sancilio, Senior Search Coordinator
Isaacson, Miller
Purdue Fort Wayne is committed to maintaining an inclusive community that recognizes and values the inherent worth and dignity of every person and fosters tolerance, sensitivity, understanding, and mutual respect. Purdue Fort Wayne is an EEO/AA employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.
