Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Blair Westblom is a seasoned financial executive with extensive experience in the higher education and pharmaceutical industries. As the Chief Financial Officer at the University of Phoenix, she is responsible for overseeing the institution's financial operations, strategic planning, and risk management initiatives.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Chief Financial Officer at the University of Phoenix, Blair is responsible for leading the university's financial strategy, planning, and reporting. She oversees a team of financial professionals and works closely with the institution's leadership to ensure financial stability, compliance, and effective resource allocation. Under her guidance, the university has maintained a strong financial position and implemented innovative cost-saving measures to support its growth and development.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Blair served as the Vice President of Financial Planning and Analysis at the University of Phoenix, where she played a pivotal role in the institution's financial management and decision-making processes. She has also held senior financial positions at Elan Pharmaceuticals, Genentech, and Thomas Weisel Partners Investment Bank, where she honed her expertise in financial analysis, budgeting, and strategic planning.
Academic Background
Blair holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the University of Arizona and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Southern California. She is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and has completed additional executive education programs in leadership and strategic management.
Areas of Expertise
- Financial planning and analysis
- Budgeting and resource allocation
- Financial reporting and compliance
- Risk management and mitigation
- Strategic decision-making
- Team leadership and development
Professional Impact
During her tenure at the University of Phoenix, Blair has played a crucial role in implementing cost-saving initiatives that have resulted in over $10 million in annual savings. She has also spearheaded the development of a comprehensive financial forecasting model that has enabled the university to make more informed, data-driven decisions. Additionally, Blair has been recognized for her contributions to the higher education industry, having served on the board of directors for the National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO).
Conclusion
With her extensive financial expertise, strategic mindset, and proven track record of success, Blair Westblom is poised to continue driving the University of Phoenix's financial strength and overall institutional growth. Her deep understanding of the higher education landscape, coupled with her exceptional leadership skills, make her a valuable asset to the university and the broader industry.
