Chief Financial Officer

Established by royal charter in 1827, the University of Toronto is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities. Located in Toronto—Canada’s largest city—the University encompasses 18 Faculties and Schools, more than 100 departments, and 170 research centres and institutes. Its teaching programs are delivered on the historic St. George campus in the heart of Toronto’s downtown, on campuses in Mississauga and Scarborough, and in nine fully affiliated teaching hospitals. With approximately 22,000 faculty and staff, 93,000 students of which 25% are international, and an annual operating budget exceeding $3.0 billion, the University is one of the world’s largest publicly funded research-intensive universities, and contributes $15.7 billion to the Canadian economy each year.

The University of Toronto seeks a strategic, results-oriented, seasoned leader for the role of Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

Reporting directly to the President, the CFO directs the vision and mission of the University’s financial management, reporting processes, internal controls, and institutional financial Information systems. The CFO leads the Finance Division in modernizing and advancing operating procedures and the technology supporting the delivery of services. With a team of more than 60 staff across financial services, procurement, risk management and insurance, and investments, the CFO delivers broad-based financial services and initiatives for the University as a whole, adhering to the highest legal, ethical, and professional standards. Building and renewing the team to ensure that it is structured and well equipped to continue their vital work will be an important focus for the new CFO. The CFO team works collaboratively with the campus community and external partners to build business partnerships that support the University’s wide range of activities.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration and a relevant accounting designation (Chartered Professional Accountant) or possesses an equivalent combination of experience and education. Given the size and scope of the University, an extensive record of exemplary leadership in a senior financial management position, preferably acquired in a university environment or large public sector organization, will be a hallmark of the ideal candidate. The CFO must demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of financial management, risk management stewardship, reporting processes, internal controls, financial resources, and financial management information systems. Knowledge of investment management, real estate and debt financing, and the latest technology innovations within financial services will significantly benefit the CFO. Experience in preparing and presenting information at the Board and executive level is essential, as is proven experience in human resources management within a unionized environment. The incumbent must be collaborative and able to foster respectful and collegial relationships to be effective in this role. They will communicate compellingly, possess a deep and abiding commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and exercise superior organizational and analytical skills.  

Applications are encouraged immediately at https://www.odgersberndtson.com/en/careers/17260. The Advisory Committee’s consideration of candidates will commence in early September and continue until the position is filled. Nominations and inquiries should be directed to Gerri Woodford or Julia Robarts of Odgers Berndtson at uoftcfo@odgersberndtson.com

Regularly named one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers and one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers, the University of Toronto is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from racialized persons / persons of colour, women, Indigenous / Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, but applications from Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. In accordance with the AODA Act, accommodation will be provided to individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.