UT System Launches Search for Next Chief Financial Officer

Nominations and applications are being sought for the next chief financial officer of the University of Tennessee System.

The chief financial officer is responsible for the administration of all financial operations at the University. Primary responsibilities include development of financial and operational strategies; budgeting, accounting and reporting of all operations; enterprise resource planning; investment of University operating and endowment funds; directing capital outlay and maintenance programs; and overseeing system-wide IT operations.

“We’ve been intensely focused since early 2015 on increasing efficiency and effectiveness and maximizing revenue as we work toward our goal of creating a long-term and sustainable funding model,” said UT President Joe DiPietro. “We wouldn’t be as far along in that process as we are without having had outstanding financial expertise and guidance. I’m looking for someone whose vision for higher education can support and continue our momentum.

“I’m indebted to Ron Maples for his willingness to serve as interim treasurer and chief financial officer during this transition.”

Maples, who has served as auditor and controller in addition to various administrative roles during his almost 40-year career at UT, was appointed interim in January 2016 following the retirement of Butch Peccolo, former treasurer and chief financial officer.

The committee, chaired by UT System Vice President for Communications and Marketing Tonjanita Johnson, will meet in July to discuss the search process, timeline, expectations of qualified candidates and position requirements. Additional committee members include:

• Ken Brown, executive vice chancellor and chief operating officer, UT Health Science Center
• Chris Cimino, senior vice chancellor for finance and operations, UT Knoxville
• John Compton, partner, Clayton, Dubilier & Rice
• Sharon Pryse, UT trustee; chairman and chief executive officer, The Trust Company
• Mitch Steenrod, chief financial officer, Pilot Flying J

Linda Hendricks Harig, UT vice president for human resources, is serving as an adviser to the committee. Ashlie Czyz, director of HR programs, is serving as the executive recruiter.

More information about the search, including the job description, is available on the search website. The position is expected to be filled by October.

Tags: Executive Searches, Featured