Ryan Kirkey, who has been a part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences finance team for the last four years, recently stepped into his new role as senior director of business and financial administration in the college.
Monday, June 9, 2025

By Bri Brands

Ryan Kirkey recently began his new role as senior director of business and financial administration in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

portrait of Ryan Kirkey

Kirkey, an alum from the Tippie College of Business, brings several years of experience to his new role, including four years with CLAS as the manager of accounting and financial analysis and a Master of Business Administration from St. Ambrose University.

Kirkey’s first day in his new role was May 1. Learn more about him, his interests, and what he’s most excited about in this Q&A. 

Can you tell us about your career prior to this role? 

I started at the University of Iowa in University Shared Services right after graduation from the Tippie College of Business. This position allowed me to gain knowledge of university policies regarding procurement and travel and provided a great entry into working in higher education. After about a year, I accepted a role on the CLAS accounting team, supporting numerous departments across our college. I have taken on more responsibilities over the years and have been overseeing the faculty budget for the last four years as part of the finance leadership team. 

What excited you about the senior director of financial and business administration role in CLAS? 

I am excited for the opportunity to help drive strategy in CLAS in collaboration with the senior leadership team. CLAS is very complex, and I look forward to facing the challenges we will address in the constantly evolving environment of higher education. 

What are you most looking forward to in your new role? 

I am most looking forward to my continued work with my colleagues in the finance suite and the Dean’s office. We have great teams in place currently and I am thankful I will continue to be surrounded by great people who make coming to work each day so fulfilling. 

What do you enjoy most about Iowa City? 

Having grown up in the area, Iowa City has always been a special place for me. I love the energy created when the students come back to town every fall. There is so much to do in the area and this place has always been home to me. 

What is something unique about you that people might not know? 

My wife and I have been together since high school and we have a two-year-old son, Charlie. We are both alumni of the University of Iowa and are die-hard Hawkeye fans. I lived with three football players throughout college and football Saturdays have always been my favorite days of the year. 

What is your favorite restaurant in Iowa City? 

Blackstone on the east side of Iowa City is my favorite place to go eat and have a few drinks with friends and family. Micky’s is my favorite place to catch a bite to eat over lunch. 

What was the most recent TV show or book you enjoyed? 

I have recently been watching Severance on Apple TV. It is a great show, and I am eagerly anticipating season 3.