Ben Murray, C. Curtis Dunnavan Chief Financial Officer

Professional Overview

Ben Murray is an accomplished finance executive with extensive experience in the higher education and non-profit sectors. As the C. Curtis Dunnavan Chief Financial Officer at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, he is responsible for overseeing the organization's financial strategy, operations, and strategic initiatives.

Experience Summary

Current Role

In his current role as C. Curtis Dunnavan Chief Financial Officer at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, Ben is responsible for managing the organization's financial affairs, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. He plays a critical role in aligning the institute's financial resources with its strategic objectives, ensuring the efficient allocation of funds and the long-term sustainability of the organization.

Career Progression

Prior to his current role, Ben served in various finance and operations leadership positions at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota, where he held roles such as Executive Vice President and CFO, Senior Vice President for Finance and Operations, and Vice President for Financial Affairs. In these roles, he successfully implemented financial management strategies that enhanced the university's fiscal stability and supported its academic and research initiatives.

Early in his career, Ben gained valuable experience as an audit supervisor at Carver Moquist & O'Connor, LLC and as a senior auditor at Virchow Krause & Company, LLP. He also served as the Interim Director of Finance at the Resource Center of the Americas and co-founded the San Miguel Middle School of Minneapolis, where he held the role of Director of Mission Advancement.

Academic Background

Ben holds a Bachelor's degree in Accounting from a reputable university, where he graduated with honors. His academic background and professional certifications, including his CPA licensure, have equipped him with the technical expertise and strategic acumen to excel in his finance and leadership roles.

Areas of Expertise

Ben's areas of expertise include financial management, strategic planning, budgeting and forecasting, risk management, and operational efficiency. He has a proven track record of implementing innovative financial strategies, optimizing resource allocation, and driving organizational growth and sustainability.

Professional Impact

Throughout his career, Ben has made significant contributions to the institutions he has served. At Saint Mary's University of Minnesota, he played a pivotal role in enhancing the university's financial health, securing funding for critical initiatives, and aligning the institution's financial resources with its academic and research priorities. In his current role at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, Ben is leveraging his expertise to support the institute's mission, drive innovation, and ensure the long-term viability of the organization.

Conclusion

With his extensive finance and operations experience, proven leadership skills, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Ben Murray is well-positioned to continue making a meaningful impact in the higher education and non-profit sectors. As the C. Curtis Dunnavan Chief Financial Officer at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, he is dedicated to advancing the organization's strategic objectives and contributing to its ongoing success.