REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR THE PROVISION OF EXECUTIVE SEARCH SERVICES FOR THE VISE PRESIDENT AND DEAN OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES / CFO
The objective of this search is to identify and hire a Vice President of Administrative Services and CFO who will:
• Provide strategic financial leadership for the college.
• Oversee financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and reporting processes.
• Collaborate with various entities and advocate on behalf of SUNY WCC as it receives funding from multiple sources (State, County, tuition, grants, etc.)
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and policies.
• Foster a culture of transparency, collaboration, and financial sustainability.
The executive search firm will perform the following tasks:
1. Needs Assessment and Position Profile Development
• Meet with key stakeholders to understand the college's strategic priorities, culture, and desired candidate profile.
• Develop a detailed position profile outlining key responsibilities, qualifications, experience, competencies, and personal attributes required for the CFO role.
2. Search Strategy and Candidate Sourcing
• Develop a comprehensive search strategy, including outreach to a diverse range of potential candidates.
• Utilize various recruitment methods, such as direct sourcing, networking, digital and social media, professional associations, and databases.
• Proactively identify and engage both active and passive candidates.
3. Screening and Evaluation of Candidates
• Conduct preliminary screening interviews to assess candidates' qualifications, experience, cultural fit, and interest in the role.
• Evaluate candidates based on agreed-upon criteria and provide a summary of findings.
• Present a longlist of potential candidates to the college's search committee for review.
4. Facilitation of Search Committee Interviews
• Coordinate and facilitate interviews with the search committee for shortlisted candidates.
• Provide guidance on developing interview questions and evaluating candidates.
• Assist in conducting reference checks and background verifications for finalists.
5. Final Candidate Selection and Offer Negotiation
• Provide support in the final selection process, including advising on candidate strengths and areas for development.
• Assist in the negotiation of compensation packages and employment terms.
• Support in the communication of the final decision to the selected candidate and other applicants.
6. Onboarding and Transition Support
• Provide onboarding support to ensure a smooth transition for the new CFO.
• Offer coaching and advisory services to the new CFO during the initial period to facilitate their integration into the college's culture.
7. Deliverables
• A detailed position profile and search plan.
• A longlist of qualified candidates with summaries of qualifications and interviews.
• A shortlist of recommended candidates for search committee interviews.
• Comprehensive reference checks and background verification reports.
• Support in developing the final offer and employment agreement.
8. Timeline
• The search firm is expected to complete the recruitment process within 3 months from the date of the contract signing. A detailed timeline will be established in collaboration with the college at the outset of the engagement.
9. Fees and Payment Schedule
• The college will compensate the executive search firm based on a fee structure tied to key milestones in the search process. The fee structure and payment schedule will be negotiated and agreed upon in advance.
10. Confidentiality and Ethics
• The search firm will maintain strict confidentiality of all information shared during the search process and ensure that all activities are conducted ethically and in compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
11. Terms and Conditions
• Detailed terms and conditions, including termination clauses, liability, and other contractual obligations, will be outlined in the formal agreement between SUNY Westchester Community College and the selected executive search firm.
