The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) invites applications and nominations for the position of Vice President of Administration and Finance (VPAF). The position offers an exciting opportunity to lead meaningful organizational transformation at a national higher education association that represents regional public colleges, universities, and systems whose members share a learning- and teaching-centered culture, a historic commitment to serving today’s students, and a dedication to research and creativity that advances their regions’ economic progress and cultural development.

AASCU is seeking a strategic and experienced finance executive to drive operational excellence and financial sustainability, delivering results in a unique organizational environment. Reporting directly to President/CEO Charles L. Welch, the VPAF will work with the Executive Leadership Team and financial stakeholders to guide resource allocation and facilitate financial planning that aligns with the association's goals and the needs of its members. The VPAF will be central to organizational planning and decision-making and provide leadership and oversight of diverse functional areas, including finance, IT, and administrative services.

For more than 60 years, AASCU has worked with its member institutions to deliver on the American promise of access, affordability, and educational opportunity. AASCU institutions deliver student-centered education in a learning environment that promotes public service, research, and civic engagement. AASCU ended FY25 with 323 members located in 46 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Associate members are also in Canada and Mexico. Member institutions advance social mobility for all students, positively impacting them, their families, and their communities for generations to come. Offering 3 million students each year an affordable, high-quality college education—particularly those who are first generation, students of color, students impacted by increasing income inequality and poverty, veterans, students in rural areas, and those balancing work and care responsibilities—AASCU institutions are anchors of their communities, powering economic growth and preparing graduates to be informed and engaged citizens who live by the values of a democratic society.

The next VPAF will possess demonstrated leadership experience in finance and administration, with a focus on strategy, execution, and problem-solving. They will have a proven ability to build effective teams and deliver results in complex organizational environments. Experience in higher education, association management, or membership-based organizations is highly valued. The candidate must understand the unique operational dynamics of national associations and the importance of responsive, high-quality service delivery to members and stakeholders. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build productive collaborative relationships across diverse constituencies—including executive leadership, board members, staff, and external partners—are essential. A bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, or related field is required.

More information about AASCU and the priorities and qualifications for the next VPAF is provided in the search profile, available for download at: https://www.academicsearch.org/AASCUVPAF

Nominations, applications, and inquiries may be sent in confidence. Applications must include a current curriculum vitae and a letter of interest addressing, as appropriate, the leadership priorities and qualifications outlined in the profile. Applications should be sent to: AASCUVPAF@academicsearch.org.

Evaluation of candidate materials will begin immediately. Applications received by December 8, 2025, will be guaranteed full consideration. Confidential discussions about the position are welcome and may be arranged by contacting Jay Lemons at jay.lemons@academicsearch.org, Shawn Hartman at shawn.hartman@academicsearch.org, or Jennifer Kooken at jennifer.kooken@academicsearch.org.  

COMPENSATION AND LOCATION

The salary range is between $225,000 and $258,000. This is a full-time position located at AASCU’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. AASCU employees are expected to work on a hybrid in-person work schedule of three days in the office and two days optional remote.

About AASCU

AASCU is the collective voice of 500 public colleges, universities, and systems that hold students and the community at the heart of their mission.? The association works to expand student access, success, and opportunity, promote world-class teaching and experiential learning tied to career advancement, and support applied research and services that advances economic development and quality of life in communities nationwide.

Connections working at AASCU