Hanson Takes Over Academy’s Finances

David Hanson, who came to Exeter as the school’s new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in January, has spent his first months as head of finances, “learning about Phillips Exeter Academy every day.” His experience with leadership at various higher education institutions across the country distinguished him from other applicants for the position and has led him to success so far.

Principal Thomas Hassan said that Hanson has “acclimated very well to Exeter.” He was initially a top pick for CFO because of his work in educational administrations—Hanson was previously the senior vice president and Chief Operating Officer of Virginia Commonwealth University—and has fulfilled expectations well in his short time on the job. “He has picked up quickly and effectively on his many responsibilities and has enjoyed getting to be part of this diverse and connected community,” Hassan said.

Hanson, too, recognized the benefits of the “connected and committed community” that is Exeter. In addition to his duties in the financial office, Hanson is affiliated with Knight House and is on dorm duty each week, a role he has looked forward to since applying for the job. 

Lower Sam Millner lives in Knight House and commented that, similar to his smooth transition to CFO, Hanson has also “become a part of the Knight House family very quickly.” Milner, continued, joking, “Although we all miss [former dorm affiliate and Director of Athletic Training] Gordo [Coole] dearly, Mr. Hanson can hold his own when it comes to discussing economics.” 

While in the office, Hanson said that there is no such thing as a typical day. His projects so far have varied from budget and finance to projects for IT, human resources, legal matters or the children’s center. While there is little consistency, Hanson explained that this is the reason that his job is exciting and challenging. 

Finance Office Controller Marijka Beauchesne, who works closely with Hanson, said that he “focuses on balance, operational and financial efficiency and prudent financial management.” She also noted his energy, saying that he brings it to all projects as a leader and mentor.

Director of Investments and Finance Justin Merrill concurred with Beauchesne, adding that Hanson is capable, while also being curious and interested enough to ask good questions, all while “maintaining a keen focus on the Academy’s mission.”

Hanson is currently occupied with many projects, but his main focus is on the budgeting process for the school, as Exeter must calculate and determine the Academy’s budget for this fiscal year, which will end on June 30, 2014. At that time, he and his office will present a proposed budget to the Trustees for the next fiscal year. 

He said that the budgeting process is significant and multifaceted, due to the many departments involved and the over $90 million funds that he must oversee. “The budget is complex,” Hanson said, “and relies on different sources of revenue, so I collaborate with our department chairs, our administrative leadership, the Principal Staff, Mr. Hassan and of course our amazing finance and budget team at the Academy.”

While being at Exeter presents many new and different challenges and experiences for Hanson, it also represents a homecoming. Having lived and worked for years outside of New England, he expressed excitement when discussing his return to the area, located less than an hour away from his hometown.