Deputy Athletics Director/Chief Financial Officer

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Little Rock Athletics) is seeking a Deputy Athletics Director/Chief Financial Officer. Reporting to the Director of Athletics, the CFO will serve as a member of the Leadership Team and play a critical role in providing strategic oversight of financial operations, budget planning, and fiscal management for the Department of Athletics, while advancing the mission of the institution and its athletics program. This role requires a seasoned financial executive with expertise in athletics administration, financial management, financial reporting and compliance, as well as strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills. This position is governed by state and federal laws, and agency/institution policy.

Required Education and/or Experience

• Bachelor's degree with experience in financial management, budget planning, and fiscal oversight.

Preferred Education and/or Experience

• Master's degree preferred;

• Experience in Intercollegiate Athletics/Higher Education preferred.

Job Duties and Responsibilities 

Financial Management

• Oversee the preparation, monitoring, and management of annual operating budgets, revenue forecasts, and expenditure projections for all athletic programs and departments;

• Monitor financial performance and provide recommendations for optimizing resource allocation;

• Develop and implement financial policies, procedures, and controls to ensure the integrity and transparency of financial operations;

• Manage Department of Athletics contracts and serve as liaison to University Procurement.;

• Direct oversight of Business Operations staff.

Budget Planning and Analysis

• Lead the development of comprehensive budgetary plans and financial strategies for all sports and administrative units to support short-term and long-term needs;

• Collaborate with departmental leaders, coaches, and staff to establish budget targets, establish funding priorities, and align expenditures with strategic objectives;

• Provide monthly budget reports, financial analysis, and forecasting support to inform decision-making processes and identify opportunities for cost savings and revenue enhancement.

Financial Reporting and Compliance

• Advise the Director of Athletics on all matters related to the budget, financial planning, and contracts;

• Ensure compliance with institutional policies, NCAA regulations, and other governing bodies' requirements related to financial reporting, accounting standards, and fiscal management;

• Prepare and submit financial reports, audits, and compliance certifications to University Administration, Arkansas Department of Higher Education, Federal Department of Education, NCAA, United Athletic Conference, and other external stakeholders as required;

• Develop and maintain internal controls, audit procedures, and risk management practices to safeguard assets and mitigate financial risks.

Leadership

• Serve as a member of the Department of Athletics’ Senior Staff/Leadership Team;

• Primary Sport Administrator for assigned programs, which includes providing support, guidance, and mentoring; serving as a resource and advocate; being visible and accessible; and facilitating head coach hiring, supervision, and evaluation;

• Provide oversight for assigned internal operations administrative units (i.e., Human Resources, Information Technology (IT), Sports Performance, etc.);

• Provide strategic leadership and direction to departmental staff, fostering a culture of accountability, transparency, and excellence in financial management and operations;

• Represent athletics in meetings and committees, advocating for financial priorities, resource needs, and strategic initiatives;

• Serve as a liaison to University Administration, UA Little Rock Foundation, and other internal and external partners on all financial matters;

• Other related duties as assigned by the Director of Athletics.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge and experience with industry best practices in financial management and reporting;

• Understanding of NCAA rules and regulations. Knowledge of matters pertaining to financial aid, scholarships, revenue distribution, and other financial aspects of Intercollegiate Athletics preferred;

• Demonstrated expertise in financial analysis and budget development, with a track record of driving financial sustainability and operational excellence within a complex organization;

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, project management, organizational, and leadership skills, with the ability to build consensus, foster collaboration, and inspire teams to achieve shared goals.