SDSU Research Foundation
Chief Financial Officer
SDSU Research Foundation, San Diego, California, United States, 92189
Chief Financial Officer
Join to apply for the
Chief Financial Officer
role at
SDSU Research Foundation .
Overview This position is open until filled, with first review of candidates on December 15, 2025.
Who We Are Established in 1943, SDSU Research Foundation (SDSURF) supports the research objectives of San Diego State University by helping faculty and staff find, obtain, and administer funding for research and sponsored programs. SDSU achieved its strategic plan goal of becoming an R1, premier public research university early 2025. SDSURF provides the full life cycle of grant services to faculty and staff to further their important work.
Financial Services Financial Services plays a critical role in advancing SDSU Research Foundation’s mission. The team oversees core financial operations including accounting, audits, banking, investments, budgeting, payroll, purchasing, facilities, and risk management. They ensure compliance, maintain rigorous internal controls, and safeguard foundation assets. Working collaboratively across departments, Financial Services provides insight and stability that enable SDSU research and innovation to thrive.
Responsibilities You will lead strategic initiatives in partnership with the executive team, implement best practices and process improvements to enhance efficiency and impact. Communicate financial insights and performance to the CEO, Board, Board Committees, Executive Leadership, and SDSU leaders.
Oversee cash flow planning, investment strategies, and financial forecasting to ensure fiscal health and sustainability. Evaluate organizational performance using analytics and predictive modeling, guide decisions, and strengthen outcomes.
Manage development of budgets, risk management policies, and enterprise‑wide financial strategies. Build and mentor a high‑performing finance and accounting team, maintaining rigorous internal controls, compliance with CSU and professional standards, and readiness for audits.
Partner with director of facilities planning & management to optimize real estate usage, maximize returns, and support the research mission. Advise Vice Presidents for Research and Innovation and Business and Financial Affairs on initiatives impacting auxiliaries. Serve on key committees such as the President’s Budget Advisory and Gift Acceptance Committees, and explore shared service models.
Qualifications Strategic, forward‑thinking leader who brings vision, collaboration, and sound judgment. Think strategically, plan effectively, set clear priorities in complex dynamic environment. Strong communication and relationship‑building skills.
Excellence in financial and operational management, including budgeting, planning, and vendor negotiation. Analytical, results‑driven, able to evaluate complex problems, identify creative solutions, and implement strategies delivering measurable results.
Leadership that inspires and develops team—coaching, motivating, empowering. Skilled at translating technical and financial information into clear actionable insights. Current with industry trends and best practices.
Thrives in a collaborative university environment, thinks creatively, and deep understanding of fiduciary responsibilities guiding SDSURF’s mission.
Experience & Education Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or business administration; advanced degree or certification preferred. 10+ years of progressively responsible leadership experience in higher education, research administration, or comparable organization. Understanding of Uniform Guidance and GASB essential or ability to acquire quickly. Experience managing endowments, gifts, and fund administration.
Preferred Qualifications
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license highly desirable.
15+ years of relevant leadership experience, ideally with national public accounting firm.
Expertise in fund accounting and experience presenting to Boards of Directors.
Experience with financial system implementations.
Benefits
Medical, dental and vision plans
Life and disability insurance plans
Generous 403(b) retirement plan with 200% match on first 5% contributions, up to 10% maximum employer match, fully vested.
24 paid vacation and 12 paid sick leave days per year
14 paid holidays and 2 annual personal holidays
Hybrid in‑office/telework arrangements
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Campus amenities access (Love Library, Aztec Lanes bowling alley, SDSU transit center, coffee shops, eateries)
Discounted Aztec Recreation Center gym membership and SDSU events
Wellness workshops
How to Apply Apply through the SDSURF Career Page and enter Job # 2025-19761. Submit a complete application including resume and cover letter recommended. Respond to supplemental questions thoroughly.
Additional Applicant Information
Competitive salary between $200,000 and $235,000, with eligibility for performance‑based compensation up to 15% of annual earnings.
Candidate must reside in California and live within commuting distance of SDSU at time of hire.
Hybrid work philosophy: at least two days in office, up to five required. Remote work authorized as desired.
Offer contingent on satisfactory background check results.
SDSURF is an equal‑opportunity employer. Comply with federal and state civil rights laws, including Title IX, ADA, Section 504, California Equity in Higher Education Act.
Employment decisions based on qualifications relevant to the job.
Additional nondiscrimination policies and compliance with civil‑rights laws.
Seniority Level Executive
Employment Type Full‑time
Job Function Finance and Sales
Industries Higher Education
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Chief Financial Officer
role at
SDSU Research Foundation .
Overview This position is open until filled, with first review of candidates on December 15, 2025.
Who We Are Established in 1943, SDSU Research Foundation (SDSURF) supports the research objectives of San Diego State University by helping faculty and staff find, obtain, and administer funding for research and sponsored programs. SDSU achieved its strategic plan goal of becoming an R1, premier public research university early 2025. SDSURF provides the full life cycle of grant services to faculty and staff to further their important work.
Financial Services Financial Services plays a critical role in advancing SDSU Research Foundation’s mission. The team oversees core financial operations including accounting, audits, banking, investments, budgeting, payroll, purchasing, facilities, and risk management. They ensure compliance, maintain rigorous internal controls, and safeguard foundation assets. Working collaboratively across departments, Financial Services provides insight and stability that enable SDSU research and innovation to thrive.
Responsibilities You will lead strategic initiatives in partnership with the executive team, implement best practices and process improvements to enhance efficiency and impact. Communicate financial insights and performance to the CEO, Board, Board Committees, Executive Leadership, and SDSU leaders.
Oversee cash flow planning, investment strategies, and financial forecasting to ensure fiscal health and sustainability. Evaluate organizational performance using analytics and predictive modeling, guide decisions, and strengthen outcomes.
Manage development of budgets, risk management policies, and enterprise‑wide financial strategies. Build and mentor a high‑performing finance and accounting team, maintaining rigorous internal controls, compliance with CSU and professional standards, and readiness for audits.
Partner with director of facilities planning & management to optimize real estate usage, maximize returns, and support the research mission. Advise Vice Presidents for Research and Innovation and Business and Financial Affairs on initiatives impacting auxiliaries. Serve on key committees such as the President’s Budget Advisory and Gift Acceptance Committees, and explore shared service models.
Qualifications Strategic, forward‑thinking leader who brings vision, collaboration, and sound judgment. Think strategically, plan effectively, set clear priorities in complex dynamic environment. Strong communication and relationship‑building skills.
Excellence in financial and operational management, including budgeting, planning, and vendor negotiation. Analytical, results‑driven, able to evaluate complex problems, identify creative solutions, and implement strategies delivering measurable results.
Leadership that inspires and develops team—coaching, motivating, empowering. Skilled at translating technical and financial information into clear actionable insights. Current with industry trends and best practices.
Thrives in a collaborative university environment, thinks creatively, and deep understanding of fiduciary responsibilities guiding SDSURF’s mission.
Experience & Education Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or business administration; advanced degree or certification preferred. 10+ years of progressively responsible leadership experience in higher education, research administration, or comparable organization. Understanding of Uniform Guidance and GASB essential or ability to acquire quickly. Experience managing endowments, gifts, and fund administration.
Preferred Qualifications
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license highly desirable.
15+ years of relevant leadership experience, ideally with national public accounting firm.
Expertise in fund accounting and experience presenting to Boards of Directors.
Experience with financial system implementations.
Benefits
Medical, dental and vision plans
Life and disability insurance plans
Generous 403(b) retirement plan with 200% match on first 5% contributions, up to 10% maximum employer match, fully vested.
24 paid vacation and 12 paid sick leave days per year
14 paid holidays and 2 annual personal holidays
Hybrid in‑office/telework arrangements
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Campus amenities access (Love Library, Aztec Lanes bowling alley, SDSU transit center, coffee shops, eateries)
Discounted Aztec Recreation Center gym membership and SDSU events
Wellness workshops
How to Apply Apply through the SDSURF Career Page and enter Job # 2025-19761. Submit a complete application including resume and cover letter recommended. Respond to supplemental questions thoroughly.
Additional Applicant Information
Competitive salary between $200,000 and $235,000, with eligibility for performance‑based compensation up to 15% of annual earnings.
Candidate must reside in California and live within commuting distance of SDSU at time of hire.
Hybrid work philosophy: at least two days in office, up to five required. Remote work authorized as desired.
Offer contingent on satisfactory background check results.
SDSURF is an equal‑opportunity employer. Comply with federal and state civil rights laws, including Title IX, ADA, Section 504, California Equity in Higher Education Act.
Employment decisions based on qualifications relevant to the job.
Additional nondiscrimination policies and compliance with civil‑rights laws.
Seniority Level Executive
Employment Type Full‑time
Job Function Finance and Sales
Industries Higher Education
#J-18808-Ljbffr