Overview
This role is a Principal Analyst position within the Financial Planning and Analysis division of a major academic institution. Reporting to the Director, the position provides strategic financial leadership, resource planning, and budget management across a diverse portfolio of departments and programs. The role involves managing multi-source budgets including state funds, student fees, grants, gifts, auxiliary income, and other revenue streams. It supports financial health and operational efficiency through development and oversight of fiscal systems, policies, and procedures.
Responsibilities
- Conduct complex financial analyses to evaluate past performance and forecast future financial outcomes.
- Lead development and maintenance of long-range financial models and business plans.
- Prepare detailed analyses for operating, capital, and auxiliary budgets, including scenario planning to support leadership decisions.
- Serve as a divisional expert in fund management and financial policies, ensuring compliance and best practices.
- Review, approve, and oversee advanced financial transactions across units.
- Communicate financial status, risks, and opportunities to departmental and divisional stakeholders.
- Coordinate annual budget planning processes, develop revenue and expenditure projections, and monitor budget performance.
- Advise department leaders on financial and operational implications of strategic decisions.
- Develop and implement internal control procedures and policies to safeguard resources.
- Ensure compliance with university, state, and federal financial regulations and policies.
- Design and enhance financial reporting systems, dashboards, and automated tools to facilitate data-driven decision-making.
- Provide fiscal support for capital projects, facilities management, and space planning, including funding models and debt forecasting.
- Manage personnel budgets, including salary provisions, reclassifications, and hiring transactions.
- Support strategic initiatives, participate in committees, and lead or contribute to special projects as assigned.
- Train and guide other finance staff and analysts, fostering a collaborative and customer-service-oriented team culture.
Requirements
- Advanced degree in finance, accounting, economics, business administration, or related field, or equivalent professional experience.
- Proven ability to independently analyze complex financial data from multiple sources.
- Exceptional communication skills, capable of presenting complex financial information clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing.
- Advanced proficiency with spreadsheet, database, and financial analysis tools.
- Strong interpersonal skills to engage effectively with stakeholders at all organizational levels.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a high-volume environment and adapt to changing circumstances.
- Team-oriented mindset with the ability to collaborate across departments and functions.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in higher education financial planning and analysis is advantageous.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary range of $100,000 to $115,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- Full benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Retirement plan options and university-sponsored savings plans.
- Flexible remote work arrangements with opportunities for in-person engagement as required.
- Professional development and training opportunities.
- Paid time off, holidays, and leave benefits.
- Supportive and inclusive work environment promoting diversity and equity.
Location
Remote work arrangement with flexibility; some in-person responsibilities as needed.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The employer is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under applicable law. The organization is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment that values contributions of all individuals and promotes equity in employment practices.