Open Searches

University of the Ozarks (Ozarks) invites nominations, inquiries, and applications for the position of Vice President for Finance and Administration (VPFA). U of O is a private liberal arts institution located in Clarksville, Arkansas, nestled in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. Tracing its roots to 1834, it is the oldest institution of higher education in Arkansas and one of the oldest west of the Mississippi River, and it maintains a historic affiliation with the Presbyterian Church (USA). Known for its intimate learning environment and low student-to-faculty ratio, U of O offers a range of undergraduate programs grounded in a strong liberal arts tradition. Reporting directly to President Richard Dunsworth, the successful candidate is expected to begin no later than July 1, 2027.

Ozarks is consistently recognized for its academic quality, affordability, and student-centered programs. Ranked among the top comprehensive baccalaureate institutions in the Southern region by U.S. News & World Report, the University blends the liberal arts and professional preparation in an environment that emphasizes quality teaching and student learning. Serving approximately 800 undergraduate students who represent communities throughout the United States and more than 20 countries around the world, Ozarks is one of the fastest-growing universities in the region, with record enrollment that has increased nearly 50 percent over the past five years.

The next VPFA will build upon the sound financial foundation of the University, as reflected in its endowment and solid financial standing, focusing on the financial management and operations of the institution to ensure fiscal stability and vitality. The VPFA oversees the Office of Finance, Financial Services, Financial Aid, Human Resources, Physical Plant, and Endowment Funds, along with other duties assigned by the President. The successful candidate will be a collaborative, forward-thinking financial leader who embraces the University’s mission and joins a strong executive leadership team committed to serving the academic, spiritual, social, physical, and emotional needs of students while upholding exceptionally high academic standards.

Full information about the position, including qualifications and the application process, can be found in the position profile located in the Open Searches section of the Academic Search website. This position is open until filled, and applications received by January 4, 2027 can be assured full consideration.

Academic Search is assisting the University of the Ozarks in this national Vice President for Finance and Administration search. Conversations are encouraged as our consultants want to get to know you and share information that might be helpful in discerning your interest and preparing application materials. Nominations and inquiries can be sent to OzarksVPFA@academicsearch.org. If you are interested in the position, please arrange a confidential discussion directly with senior consultant Dr. Alan Cureton at his direct booking link, or consultant Disa Mason at disa.mason@academicsearch.org.

Applications should be submitted to Academic Search using this link:

<https://www.academicsearch.org/OzarksVPFAApply>. Applications should consist of

1) a detailed letter of interest that describes the candidate’s interest and alignment with the leadership agenda, 2) a current curriculum vitae, and 3) a list of five professional

references with current email contact information. References will not be contacted without the permission of the candidate, and only for those invited to interview. All documents should be uploaded to the Application Portal via the link above. Materials should be submitted in PDF format.

Knowing that diversity contributes to academic excellence and rich and rewarding communities, Ozarks is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse faculty, staff and student body. The University is especially interested in applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences and those with a successful record of teaching and working with diverse students, including historically underrepresented minority students and other underserved populations. For additional information about the University of the Ozarks, please visit ozarks.edu.