The University of Nebraska-Lincoln conducted a nationwide search for its next vice chancellor for business and finance, with a fourth finalist interview in October. 13.
The next candidate is Matthew A. Skinner, senior vice president and deputy chief financial officer at Washington State University. He will be on campus in October. 13.
A full overview of searches and details about each finalist is available here.
Skinner has 19 years of higher education experience in budgeting, planning, finance and accounting functions. He joined the University in 2003 as Budget Officer and continues to be recognized for a growing number of leadership responsibilities.
His current responsibilities include serving as Deputy to the Chief Financial Officer, developing and implementing strategic financial and facilities plans for the Washington State University system. He also supports and advises on all aspects of the University’s financial and administrative portfolio, leading a team of seven direct reports and 150 professionals.
He has successfully led campus efforts to develop comprehensive forecasts and financial plans to overcome conflicts with coronavirus disease-19 pandemic; led the deployment of Workday, a system that supports finance, human resources, payroll, and post-award grant management; and helped develop a plan to balance Washington State’s sports operating budget.
Skinner is a certified public accountant and received his Bachelor of Science (Business) degree from the University of Idaho in 2000 and his MBA from Washington State in 2007.
Skinner’s full resume can be viewed here. An evaluation form for Skinner’s candidacy is available here.
Nebraska’s vice chancellor for business and finance is the university’s senior business officer and reports to the chancellor. This position is responsible for overseeing and managing the University’s $1.2 billion operating budget, all financial and administrative services, and compliance with University policies and state and federal laws.
The Vice Chancellor leads operational activities related to the University’s physical facilities and grounds, Nebraska sites, University Police, Parking and Transportation Services, Human Resources and other business services.
The position serves on the Prime Minister’s Executive Leadership Team and is a member of the Prime Minister’s expanded Cabinet. Learn more about positions and responsibilities.
Skinner and other finalists were selected through a national search. The search was assisted by a search advisory committee headed by Law School Dean Richard Moberly. The committee is made up of students, staff, and representatives of the Greater Lincoln community, including:
- Marco Barker, Vice-Chancellor for Diversity and Inclusion;
- Ken Bloom, Principal for Budget Model Implementation and Chair/Professor Assistant for Physics and Astronomy;
- Jacob Drake, President of the University of Nebraska Student Association;
- Chris Kabourek, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Now system
- Kelli Kopocis, President-elect, Faculty Senate, Assistant Professor of Architectural Engineering and Construction;
- Mary LaGrange, Interim Vice-Chancellor for Business and Finance;
- Ann Powers, Research Technician, Agronomy and Horticulture;
- Hassan Ramzah, Assistant Deputy Prime Minister and Chief of Police;
- Tyrell Ross, Director of Finance and Budget, School of Business
- Lisa Smith, Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor, Portfolio Manager, up to Davidson Corporation; and
- Becky Zavala, Assistant Vice-Chancellor for Research and Economic Development.
Full details on searches are available here.