Richard J. Sobieray has been named senior vice president and chief operating officer at Temple University, President John Fry announced on Apr. 15. Sobieray is expected to begin his new role on August 1, pending final approval by the Board of Trustees.
The appointment comes as Temple is starting the implementation process for its strategic plan, Forward with Purpose. Fry said that Sobieray’s “ability to align financial strategy with institutional priorities will be critical as we continue to strengthen Temple’s foundation and invest in our future.” He added that the timing of this appointment aligns with upcoming changes, including the introduction of a new budget model later this summer.
Fry also acknowledged David Marino for his service as interim chief operating officer over the past year, stating: “I also want to express my deepest gratitude to David Marino, who has done an exceptional job while serving as interim chief operating officer over the past year.” Marino will return to his previous role as vice president for finance and treasurer when Sobieray assumes his position.
Sobieray brings more than twenty years of experience in higher education and academic health systems. He most recently served at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) as vice president and chief financial officer, managing assets exceeding $60 billion and overseeing a $1.7 billion operating budget in support of KAUST’s 2030 Strategic Plan. At KAUST, he led initiatives resulting in over $100 million in savings and developed a transparent budget model.
Prior to KAUST, Sobieray was senior vice president for financial strategy at the University of South Florida (USF), where he managed a $2.6 billion budget across multiple campuses, eliminated a significant deficit, improved financial results by $200 million, and secured nearly $150 million in state investment. Earlier roles included leadership positions at USF Health—the Morsani College of Medicine—and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
Reflecting on his new position at Temple University, Sobieray said: “I am honored to join Temple University and support its mission of providing access to a high-quality education to students from all backgrounds, advancing impactful research and making a difference in the lives of our neighbors.”
