Financial Analyst

Amherst has taken a leadership role among highly selective liberal arts colleges and universities in successfully diversifying the racial, socio-economic, and geographic profile of its student body. The College is similarly committed to enriching its educational experience and its culture through the diversity of its faculty, administration and staff.

Job Description:

Amherst College invites applications for the Financial Analyst position. The Financial Analyst is a full-time, year-round position, starting at $68,000 per year - commensurate with experience. Given Amherst's distinction as one of the most diverse liberal arts colleges in the country, the successful candidate will demonstrate the ways in which they bring value to and will work towards supporting a broadly diverse community.

Under the supervision of the Director of Financial Planning & Treasury, the Financial Analyst will support the College’s treasury operations and processes, assist with the annual operating and capital budget processes, conduct complex financial analysis, and liaise with both internal and external business partners. The Financial Analyst will have the opportunity to learn all aspects of the budget and treasury functions in higher education.

Summary of Responsibilities:

Financial Analysis

• Collect, organize, and analyze financial data in support of the College’s treasury and budget operations

• Assist in creating and maintaining financial models and dashboards

• Collaborate with various divisions at the College to gather relevant financial information

• Prepare presentations and recurring reports to communicate treasury and budget information to a diverse group of internal and external constituents

Treasury Operations

• Monitor daily cash positions at various banks and recommend transactions to maintain target balances 

• Maintain the College’s cash forecasting model and propose adjustments to better track and invest funds to maximize interest income while considering institutional risk tolerances

• Process fund transfers and wire payments with oversight and in accordance with internal policies

Annual Operating & Capital Budget Processes 

• Assist with the development of the schedule and materials for preparation of the College’s operating and capital budgets

• Advise and assist department heads in preparing budget requests, review budget submissions for accuracy and clarity, adjust budget materials to reflect decision making

Process Improvements and Ad-Hoc Projects

• Identify opportunities to streamline processes and introduce automation

• Recommend improvements to controls, best practices, and reporting tools

• Support-cross functional finance initiatives and special projects as needed

Continued Learning / Professional Development

• Access to online seminars and workshops to enhance skills and stay current with industry trends

• Cross-training with internal staff across teams to foster collaboration, broaden knowledge, and build a versatile skill set

Qualifications:

Required

• Bachelor’s Degree

• 1 - 3 years of related experience 

• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail

• Willingness to learn and a keen interest in the intricacies of treasury management and budget processes

• Excellent communication and organization skills

• Proficiency with MS Excel and PowerPoint 

• Flexibility to manage, with direction, multiple assignments for different end-users

• Commitment to or experience working with a diverse community

Preferred

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, or related discipline

• Experience working in a higher education environment

• Treasury experience 

Amherst College offers many opportunities for professional growth and development, continued learning, and career advancement.

Amherst College is pleased to provide a comprehensive, highly competitive benefits package that meets the needs of staff and faculty and their families. Benefits are an important part of our overall compensation, so it is critical that you review all of the options to ensure it meets your total compensation requirements. Click here for Benefits Information.

Interested candidates are asked to submit a resume and cover letter