Vice President of Finance and Administration

Location : Midland, MI
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 03497
Division: Finance and Administration
Department: Financial Services and Central Support
Opening Date: 08/11/2026
Closing Date: Continuous

Roles
Vice President, Finance and Administration

The Opportunity

Northwood University is at a pivotal moment. Known as America's Free Enterprise University and dedicated to democratic capitalism and the nation's leading educator for the $2.5 trillion automotive, mobility, and aftermarket industries. No other institution can match its unique position. The university is about to embark on its most substantial capital transformation in its history. This is not a passive role; Northwood is looking for an entrepreneurial, innovative leader to guide - not just manage - this next phase, anchored in The Northwood Idea.
The next Vice President for Finance and Administration will:
• Drive execution of Northwood's growth-oriented 2026-2031 Strategic Plan.
• Build innovative financial and business systems and strategies that fuel enrollment growth and long-term sustainability.
• Align finance, technology, facilities, and administration around institutional priorities.
• Oversee the largest capital infrastructure investment in Northwood's history, transforming the Midland campus.
• Champion an entrepreneurial culture of creativity, accountability, and results.
• Partner closely with trustees, senior leaders, faculty, staff, and external stakeholders.
• Steward one of higher education's most distinctive missions and philosophies.
Leadership Portfolio

The Vice President provides executive oversight for a broad portfolio that includes:

• Finance and Accounting
• Budgeting and Financial Planning
• Information Technology
• Facilities and Capital Projects
• Auxiliary Services
• Risk Management and Insurance
• Compliance and Legal Coordination
• Strategic Business Operations

The successful candidate will bring both strategic vision and operational excellence, balancing innovation with sound financial stewardship.

Responsibilities
Desired Characteristics
Northwood seeks a leader who:

• Embraces and champions the principles embodied in The Northwood Idea.
• Possesses exceptional financial and business acumen.
• Demonstrates integrity, transparency, and sound judgment.
• Thrives in entrepreneurial and mission-driven environments.
• Builds trust through collaboration and exceptional communication.
• Is energized by strategic thinking, problem solving, and continuous improvement.
• Provides clear, candid counsel to executive leadership.
• Understands how to align financial strategy with institutional outcomes and growth objectives.

Qualifications
A record of progressively responsible executive leadership in finance, administration, business operations, or related fields is required.

Experience in higher education is preferred, though leaders from nonprofit, corporate, or other mission-driven organizations with comparable complexity are encouraged to apply.

A CPA credential and advanced degree is highly desirable.

Expectations

NORTHWOOD UNIVERSITY BENEFITS OVERVIEW

Medical/RX (PPO or HDHP)

Dental

Vision

Flex Spending
HSA
Group Life Insurance/AD&D

Emeriti Retirement Healthcare

LTD

STD

403b/MEP Retirement Plan

Roth 403b

Tuition Assistance

Wellness Programming

Pet Insurance

Discount Programs

Generous Leave Plans