Drury CFO exits

Courtesy Drury University

Rob Fridge has had two stints as CFO of Drury.

Drury University Chief Financial Officer Rob Fridge has exited the higher learning institution. This was his second stint serving as CFO.

In a letter sent to members of the Drury campus, interim President John Beuerlein said Fridge stepped down. The letter was provided to Springfield Business Journal by Drury spokesperson Jasmine Cooper.

"I’m writing to share with you the news that Rob Fridge has stepped down from his position as executive vice president of administration and CFO in order to pursue other opportunities and spend more time with his family," Beuerlein said in the letter. "During his collective 13 years at Drury, Rob has become known for his kindness and dedication to the university, and we wish him all the best. I’d like to personally thank Rob for his many contributions to help make Drury University a better place. Rob has made a difference."

Aug. 28 was Fridge’s last day at Drury, said Cooper.

The letter from Beuerlein also included a statement from Fridge.

"My years at Drury have been some of the best of my career. I am so grateful for the opportunities I’ve been provided, and it’s been a privilege to serve our students," Fridge said in the statement. "It’s never easy to say goodbye, but I have cherished memories thanks to my wonderful colleagues and friends."

An attempt to reach Fridge for follow-up comment was unsuccessful by deadline.

Fridge most recently worked at Drury since 2020 and as CFO since 2021, according to his profile on Drury's website. He previously was a Drury employee 2008-18, starting as controller before being promoted to CFO in 2016. In between his stints at Drury, he worked at Alpaca Audiology in Springfield as CFO, according to his LinkedIn profile.

Beuerlein said in the letter that Drury Controller Deb O’Neal has been named interim CFO as the school starts the search process for Fridge's successor.