Job Description

Job Description:

Reporting to the Director of Finance and Planning, the Senior Finance and Planning Analyst is a strategic partner responsible for day-to-day operations, driving financial planning, analysis, and operational excellence within the Division of Academic Affairs. This role requires advanced analytical acumen, strategic thinking, and leadership in financial management to support the division’s goals and objectives while ensuring compliance with university policies and procedures. The Senior Analyst will lead complex financial modeling, guide strategic budget planning, and collaborate cross-functionally with key stakeholders, including the Budget Office, Office of Sponsored Programs, Office of Sponsored Accounting, and Academic Schools, to optimize financial performance and resource allocation.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Strategic Financial Leadership:
  • Assist the Director in financial planning and analysis activities, including annual budget preparation, multi-year financial forecasting, and strategic scenario modeling to inform leadership decision-making.
  • Provide strategic guidance and insight to the Director of Finance and Planning on financial trends, risks, and opportunities, influencing long-term financial strategies and initiatives.
  • Assist the Director in developing and presenting high-level financial reports and dashboards to senior leadership, utilizing advanced data visualization techniques to communicate complex financial information clearly and effectively.
• Advanced Budgeting and Forecasting:
  • Assist the Director, Finance and planning, in the budgeting process for the Division of Academic Affairs, ensuring accurate and comprehensive financial planning and alignment with strategic priorities.
  • Coordinate and lead budget versus actual meetings, providing in-depth variance analysis and actionable recommendations for budget optimization.
  • Collaborate with academic units to develop financial models and forecasts that support academic program planning and strategic resource allocation.
• Operations and Process Improvement:
  • Assist the Director in enhancing financial operations, including purchase requisitions, expense reimbursements, budget adjustments, and journal vouchers, ensuring efficiency and compliance with university policies.
  • Design and implement process improvements to achieve operational efficiencies, strengthen internal controls, and enhance financial reporting accuracy.
  • Maintain and manage a centralized repository for financial planning and project-related materials, ensuring data integrity and accessibility.
  • Perform research on industry best practices and benchmarks to support business processes and leadership decision making
• Cross-functional Collaboration and Communication:
  • With the consultation of the Director, serve as a liaison to the University’s Budget Office, representing the Division of Academic Affairs in finance and budgetary discussions.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Sponsored Programs and Sponsored Accounting, to ensure cohesive financial planning and compliance.
  • With the consultation of the Director, prepare and deliver presentations to senior leadership, providing strategic insights and influencing financial and operational decisions.
  • Aid in space management coordination needs for the Division of Academic Affairs
  • Other responsibility and duties as assigned
• Leadership and Mentoring:
  • Act as a backup for the Director of Finance and Planning as appropriate and assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in Financial Planning and Analysis (FP& A), strategic budgeting, or a related financial leadership role, preferably within higher education.
• Proven track record of strategic financial management, including complex financial modeling, multi-year forecasting, and budget optimization.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (including VLOOKUPS, SUMPRODUCT, PivotTables, Macros), Word, and PowerPoint.
• Exceptional analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to influence and drive strategic decisions.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities, including mentoring team members and leading cross-functional projects.
• High attention to detail, business acumen, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Department

EEO Statement: