Senior Associate Athletic Director & Chief Financial Officer

The Role & The Opportunity

Western Michigan University, a nationally recognized research institution and a leader in the Mid-American Conference, invites applications for the position of Senior Associate Athletic Director & Chief Financial Officer. This is a premier leadership opportunity for a seasoned financial professional to direct the fiscal strategy and business operations of a dynamic 16-sport NCAA Division I athletic department.

The CFO serves as a key member of the Director of Athletics’ executive team, providing strategic financial counsel and oversight. The successful candidate will be responsible for all aspects of the department’s financial operations, including budget development and management, financial reporting, and contract administration, while ensuring the highest level of fiscal integrity and supporting the department’s championship aspirations.

Core Responsibilities & Scope

This role has direct strategic and operational oversight for the financial health and business functions that underpin the success of Bronco Athletics.

• Develop and manage the comprehensive financial operations and budget for the athletic department.
• Serve as a senior advisor and member of the executive team, contributing to the development and advancement of strategic priorities.
• Oversee all business office operations, including financial reporting, audits, and internal controls.
• Manage and review all external vendor contracts and serve as the department’s liaison to University Human Resources.
• Oversee equipment services and the department’s contract with Adidas.
• Participate on the sport administration team with directed sport oversight.
• Assist in the opening of a $500M+ arena and performance center.
• Lead, supervise, and mentor the business office staff, fostering a culture of accuracy and fiscal responsibility.
• Ensure compliance with all University, MAC, NCHC, and NCAA policies and regulations.

Department Leadership

You will serve as a key member of a dynamic executive team that has achieved unprecedented success across all dimensions of the program.

Dan Bartholomae, Vice President & Director of Athletics

Since his arrival in 2022, Dan Bartholomae has led Bronco Athletics to record-setting performances in competition, academics, and fundraising. His leadership was pivotal in securing the school’s first-ever Men’s Ice Hockey national championship, and under his tenure, WMU has led the MAC in the Learfield Directors’ Cup standings for the first time in history.

View Official Bio

The Ideal Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will be a proven financial leader with extensive experience in collegiate athletics and a commitment to fiscal integrity.

• Experience: A minimum of eight years of progressive experience in athletic business operations, preferably at the NCAA Division I level.
• Financial Acumen: Demonstrated expertise in the development and management of complex budgets, financial modeling, and strategic fiscal planning.
• Leadership: A track record of success in a senior administrative role with strong personnel and project management skills.
• Collaboration: The ability to work effectively with a diverse range of constituents, including university leadership, coaches, staff, and external partners.
• Education: A Bachelor’s degree is required; a Master’s degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field is preferred.

Why Work at Western Michigan?

This role is central to the success of a university and athletic department on a clear upward trajectory.

University & Community Excellence

• A nationally recognized R1 research university, named the **No. 1 education employer in Michigan** by Forbes.
• Home to the innovative Kalamazoo Promise, offering up to 100% of post-secondary tuition for public school graduates.
• Located in Kalamazoo, named the “Coolest City in the U.S. with the Lowest Cost of Living.”

Athletic Distinction

• Guided by the **’Broncos Reign’ strategic plan** for comprehensive excellence.
• Backed by major investment, including a **new downtown Kalamazoo event center and arena**.
• Home to the 2025 NCAA Division I Men’s Ice Hockey National Champions.
• Led the Mid-American Conference in the Learfield Directors’ Cup standings for the first time in school history.
• Record-breaking fundraising with a 217% increase in philanthropic support since 2022.

Life in Kalamazoo

Located halfway between Chicago and Detroit, Kalamazoo offers an exceptional quality of life with a cost of living that is 16% lower than the national average. The region boasts vibrant, walkable downtowns, world-class breweries, and 83 public lakes, providing a perfect blend of urban energy and outdoor recreation.

Additional Benefits

Western Michigan University is not just a workplace; it’s a community dedicated to the success and well-being of its employees, offering a rich benefits package and a supportive, inclusive environment.

• Excellent Retirement Plan: WMU automatically contributes up to 11% of your salary to your retirement account, with immediate vesting.
• Tuition Remission: A highly competitive program provides 100% tuition remission for employees, spouses, and dependents at WMU, with significant remission available at other Michigan universities.
• Comprehensive Wellness: Access excellent health, dental, and vision insurance plans, in addition to a robust employee wellness program and deeply discounted access to West Hills Athletic Club.
• An Inclusive Community: Join a campus that values diversity, equity, and inclusion and is committed to fostering a sense of belonging for all.