Budget Analyst

Reporting to the VP of Administration and Finance, this position is a key member of the university’s administrative team. They will prepare the annual operating and capital budgets based on assumptions approved by the President, Vice President for Finance, and Board of Trustees. They will use their expertise and experience in finance, accounting and business to analyze financial data in order to assess the financial health of departments, programs and other budgeted activities. Will make recommendations and give advice on optimal staffing, organization, policies and procedures in the financial and budgetary areas of the university.

Budget Analyst Responsibilities:

• Prepare and continuously monitor the university’s progress in achieving the approved budget, identify variances and provide timely reports to management and department administrators.
• Coordinate budget-related activities with departments to provide accurate and timely forecasts of financial results.
• Prepare monthly financial statements for the Finance Committee, in cooperation with the Controller and VP of Administration and Finance
• Adjust individual department budgets, when requested, in order to accurately depict yearly financial plan
• Collaborate with the Controller and VP of Administration and Finance to provide information and counsel on various topics
• Become the point of contact on issues such as; establishing account access, budget manager roles, as well as budget approval questions
• Train budget managers on the budget process and budget tools, as developed in cooperation with the Controller and VP of Administration and Finance.
• Assist department administrators in monitoring their budgets.
• Provide schedules and documentation for year-end financial statements and audit thereof, as needed
• Prepare bank reconciliations on a monthly basis.
• Preparation of monthly journal entries, amortizing of prepaid expenses and standard accruals after monthly review of expenditures
• Review and verify accuracy of vendor invoices and expense reports submitted for payment, working with accounts payable department.
• Prepare information for financial statement footnotes, as needed
• Review contracts and invoices for their impact on the budget so forecasts of financial results are as accurate as possible and to be sure accounting treatment is correct.
• Review employment requisitions to be sure they are in conformity with the approved budget.
• Prepare ad hoc analyses and reports.
• Additional duties as assigned from time to time.

Budget Analyst Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance or related field (master’s preferred)
• At least 5 years’ experience in an institution of higher education in a finance/budget/business role
• Preferred – experience with Ellucian Colleague
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Highly skilled in math, accounting and financial processes
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Detail oriented and highly organized
• Skilled in time management and the ability to prioritize tasks
• Excellent critical thinking skills
• Solid understanding of GAAP and applicable regulations

Occasional evening and weekend work is required.

Qualifications