About the Associate VP of FP&A Role

Robert Half is thrilled to present an exceptional opportunity for an experienced Associate Vice President of Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) to join a prestigious organization in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This long-term contract position is perfect for a seasoned finance leader passionate about driving strategic financial initiatives in the higher education or non-profit sector. As a key player reporting to the VP of Finance, you will spearhead budgeting, forecasting, and financial modeling efforts, leveraging cutting-edge tools like Workday Adaptive and Colleague systems. Cambridge, MA, known as a hub for innovation and academia, offers an inspiring environment surrounded by world-class universities like Harvard and MIT. If you thrive in dynamic settings where your expertise can shape organizational success, this role at Robert Half promises impactful work and professional growth.

Why This Role Stands Out

In this position, you'll collaborate closely with senior leadership to align financial strategies with mission-driven goals. The higher education and non-profit landscapes demand agile financial oversight, and your leadership will ensure fiscal responsibility while fostering innovation. With Robert Half's backing, enjoy the flexibility of contract work with the prestige of contributing to vital institutions that shape the future.

Key Responsibilities

The Associate VP of FP&A will wear multiple hats, from tactical execution to strategic advising. Here's what your day-to-day will entail:

• Lead comprehensive budgeting and forecasting processes, ensuring seamless alignment with organizational objectives and adapting to evolving priorities in higher education or non-profits.
• Build and refine sophisticated financial models that empower data-driven decisions for long-term planning and growth.
• Partner with cross-functional teams across operations, academics, and development to optimize financial performance and uncover efficiency opportunities.
• Champion the adoption and optimization of Workday Adaptive and Colleague systems, revolutionizing financial reporting, analytics, and real-time insights.
• Deliver actionable strategic recommendations to executive leadership, translating complex financial data into clear, impactful narratives.
• Direct large-scale financial projects from inception to completion, balancing timelines, resources, and budgets effectively.
• Serve as the go-to advisor to the VP of Finance, providing expert counsel on financial strategy, risk management, and priority initiatives.
• Uphold rigorous compliance with sector-specific standards, GAAP, and best practices unique to higher education and non-profits.
• Cultivate a high-performing FP&A team culture centered on innovation, continuous improvement, and collaborative excellence.
• Continuously monitor key performance metrics, KPIs, and variance analysis to propel organizational financial health forward.

Required Qualifications

To excel in this Associate VP of FP&A role, candidates must bring a robust blend of technical prowess and leadership acumen:

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, or a related discipline; an MBA, CPA, or CMA certification is highly preferred.
• Minimum 8-10 years in FP&A roles, including 3+ years in senior leadership within higher education, non-profits, or similar mission-oriented environments.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience implementing and utilizing Workday Adaptive Planning and Colleague ERP systems.
• Advanced proficiency in financial modeling (Excel, Tableau, Power BI), forecasting methodologies, and ERP integrations.
• Proven track record managing multimillion-dollar budgets, large projects, and cross-departmental collaborations.
• Exceptional analytical mindset with the ability to distill complex data into strategic insights for C-suite audiences.
• Strong interpersonal skills for advising executives, mentoring teams, and navigating stakeholder dynamics.
• In-depth knowledge of non-profit accounting standards, grant management, endowment reporting, and regulatory compliance (e.g., FASB, IRS Form 990).
• Adaptability to fast-paced, ambiguous environments with a passion for innovation in financial operations.

Robert Half prioritizes diversity and inclusion, seeking candidates who embody these qualities and align with our commitment to ethical, forward-thinking finance leadership.

Why Join Us at Robert Half?

Partnering with Robert Half means accessing unparalleled support in your career journey. This long-term contract offers competitive pay at $76/hour, translating to an estimated $150K-$200K annually based on full-time equivalence, in one of the nation's most vibrant tech and education hubs—Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States. Benefit from our expertise in placing top finance talent, flexible scheduling, and pathways to permanent roles. Work with influential non-profits and universities driving societal impact, while enjoying Cambridge's rich cultural scene, proximity to Boston, and innovative ecosystem. Robert Half provides comprehensive resources, including professional development, networking events, and dedicated recruiters to ensure your success. Join us to elevate your FP&A career, make a meaningful difference, and thrive in a role that blends strategy, technology, and purpose. Apply today through Robert Half and step into leadership that matters!