Rick Pinkowski is a highly accomplished executive with over 34 years of experience in leadership roles across higher education, finance, and strategic operations. Throughout his distinguished career, Rick has demonstrated expertise in financial management, strategic planning, operational leadership, and organizational growth. He has played a pivotal role in driving institutional transformations, overseeing complex financial operations, and implementing innovative solutions to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the organizations he has served. As a retired executive, Rick now provides consulting services and fractional CFO work for not-for-profit organizations, helping them navigate financial challenges and achieve their long-term goals.

Rick’s career trajectory includes significant leadership positions, including his most recent role as Vice President for Finance at Villa Maria College from 2019 to 2024. During his tenure, he was responsible for all accounting and financial operations, human resources, student financial services, and campus security. As a senior leader, Rick was tasked with modernizing many of the college’s business practices and policies, driving process improvements that had a lasting impact on the institution’s financial health and operational efficiency. Notable accomplishments include revamping the college’s accounting system to provide department heads with real-time access to budget information, leading multiple RFP processes that resulted in the hiring of new auditors, investment managers, food service managers, custodial managers, and campus security providers, and securing significant financial relief through the forgiveness of a $1 million PPP loan.

Rick also played an instrumental role in securing a $1.5 million capital project loan from Felician Services, Inc., the sponsoring body of the college, further strengthening the institution’s financial position. His work on strategic financial planning included preparing multi-year financial plans, operating and capital budgets, and ensuring compliance with HEERF reporting requirements. Additionally, Rick served as the college’s liaison to several Board of Trustees committees, further expanding his leadership scope and influence within the academic community.

Before his role at Villa Maria College, Rick served as Vice President for Business and Finance at Hilbert College from 1990 to 2019, where he oversaw the college’s accounting and financial operations, human resources, student financial services, and physical plant operations. In this capacity, Rick was instrumental in the development of key campus infrastructure, overseeing the construction of several academic and residential buildings, including Franciscan Hall and Paczesny Hall. He arranged tax-exempt financing for these projects and served as the chair of the Building Committee. Rick also led efforts to merge the Financial Aid and Student Accounts offices into a unified Student Services Office, streamlining operations and improving student experiences. Throughout his career, Rick has continually demonstrated his ability to manage complex financial and operational challenges while fostering a collaborative environment focused on long-term growth.

Beyond his leadership roles, Rick has been actively involved in accreditation processes, serving as an evaluator on more than 20 Middle States accreditation site visits, specializing in planning, resource allocation, administration, and governance. His international exposure includes significant work in accreditation for colleges in Ireland, Taiwan, UAE, and Puerto Rico, further highlighting his global perspective and expertise in higher education.

Rick holds a Master of Science in Business Administration (MSBA) from Indiana University and a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Accountancy from the University of Notre Dame. He is also a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in New York.

In addition to his professional roles, Rick is deeply committed to community service and has served on numerous boards and committees. He is currently a Board Member of the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropy, set to begin in January 2025, and has previously served on the Board of Trustees for St. Francis High School and as Chair of the Planning Committee. He also serves as Chair of the Finance Council at Ss. Columba Brigid Church and has been an active member of the Middle States Commission on Higher Education since 2018, where he currently serves as Vice Chair of the Finance Committee and Vice Chair of the Membership Committee. Additionally, Rick serves on the Board of Directors for the Conference for Mercy Higher Education, where he is the Chair of the Finance Committee.

Rick’s dedication to leadership, strategic planning, and organizational growth has earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor and partner. His combination of financial acumen, strategic foresight, and hands-on experience in both operational and board-level roles positions him as a valuable asset to any organization. Now, as a consultant and fractional CFO, Rick continues to offer his expertise to not-for-profit organizations, helping them achieve financial stability and long-term success.

Rick is passionate about using his extensive experience to mentor organizations and guide them toward sustainable growth. As he moves forward into the next phase of his career, he remains committed to contributing his knowledge and leadership skills to help shape the future of the organizations he works with.

Character

Rick Pinkowski is a dedicated and ethical leader with a strong commitment to integrity, community service, and helping organizations grow and thrive.

Knowledge

With over 34 years of experience in finance, higher education, and strategic planning, Rick brings deep expertise in financial operations, organizational management, and institutional development.

Strategic

Rick has a proven track record of driving long-term growth and organizational transformation by developing multi-year financial plans, managing capital projects, and leading strategic initiatives.

Communication

Rick excels in fostering collaboration and transparency, effectively communicating across all levels of an organization, and working closely with boards, senior leadership, and stakeholders to achieve shared goals.