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Search for VP of business services narrows

Morgan Riedl

Natalie "Nikki" Krawitz, currently vice president for finance and administration for the University of Missouri System, is one of two candidates seeking to fill the position of vice president for finance and business services at Miami University, following Richard Norman's retirement at the end of December.

Steve Snyder, head of staffing for the search committee, explained that an executive search firm found the two candidates; Krawitz and David Creamer, currently senior vice president for administration at Kent State University; and both will be on campus in the next two weeks holding open forums.

Krawitz will participate in a public forum 4:30-5:30 p.m. Tuesday in 304 Laws Hall.

"Already both have been through search committee interviews," Snyder explained.

In describing the qualities the university desires in a candidate, Snyder was very clear about one characteristic.

"We want an individual with experience in budget forecasting," he said. "Like other state institutions in Ohio, we're trying to forecast the budget we'll get from the state and private donations."

Snyder explained that due to the size of Miami's operation in food services, human resources and a variety of other areas, the candidate would assume a wide range of responsibilities.

Snyder added that the university needs someone who not only is capable, but also who could cultivate a productive team by hiring just as competent individuals. In addition, the person should have a proven history of developing talent.

Krawitz brings a wide range of experience with her.

"I've had responsibilities similar to those for Miami," she said.

Though she listed responsibilities in many areas, some notable examples include experience in investment, endowment, debt management, accounting, grants administration, payroll, budget planning and development, risk and insurance management and facility planning and design.

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Before taking a position with the University of Missouri System, she worked as vice president of finance and administration at Stephens College, a private women's college.

"I also served as a faculty member and associate dean of faculty," she said. "I was responsible for the bookstore, food, housing and security."

Since joining the University of Missouri System in 1996 she has been controller, interim executive director and consultant to the executive vice president. She has held her current job title for six years.

Krawitz explained her reason for wanting to come to Miami.

"Miami is interesting to me because it has a stellar reputation as a public university, particularly for undergraduate students," she said. "It focuses on the student experience."

She also expressed that she would enjoy being on campus, interacting with students.

"I liked the interaction with students at Stephens College," Krawitz said.

She did not name any specific changes she planned for the university if offered the position.

"I don't know a whole lot about the details of the operation-when I come on campus I'll be interested to learn more about it," she said.

Krawitz's concern over the possible transition to Miami was minimal.

"Change is always something one wants to think about carefully," she said. "I like the people I work with, but I'm excited about the people I've met (at Miami) already. It feels like a good fit."

Though she has already visited the campus once for the search committee interviews, Krawitz didn't have an opportunity to interact with the students.

"I'm excited about getting to meet students this time," she said "I look forward to that part."

The open forum for Creamer, the other candidate, is scheduled for 4:30-5:30 p.m. Jan. 28 in 302 Laws Hall.