Senior Financial Planning & Analysis Specialist

Reporting to the Finance Manager and working closely with the Finance Director and other team members within the assigned Finance Division, the Senior Financial Planning Analyst (Sr. FPA) supports the development and monitoring of unit operating budgets, strategic planning initiatives, and overall financial management for units including Student Life, Marketing, Hospitality & Campus Services, and Facilities. This role conducts complex financial analyses and engages regularly with senior leadership across the University. The Sr. FPA acts as a peer leader for FPA staff and, when needed, oversees hourly personnel.

Duties/Responsibilities

Financial Strategy, Planning & Analysis – 35%

• Support institutional and unit leaders in developing financial strategy, planning, and monitoring.

• Lead annual fiscal year budget development with a focus on long‑term financial sustainability.

• Conduct complex financial modeling and analysis using advanced Excel, PowerBI and Office Connect

• Translate financial results into operational recommendations that improve business performance.

• Prepare specialized financial reports, including variance analyses, multi‑year projections, allocation models, and budget‑vs‑actual monitoring.

Budget Operations, Compliance & Financial Processes – 30%

• Review, approve, and advise on financial transactions, ensuring proper classification and budget allocation.

• Prepare and reconcile budget adjustments and reclassification journal entries.

• Monitor expenditures for compliance with budgetary guidelines and recommend cost‑saving strategies.

• Ensure adherence to System‑wide financial standards, definitions, and procedural requirements.

• Identify process efficiencies and document procedural improvements.

• Support the development of unit operating budgets and recommend funding options aligned with strategic initiatives.

Stakeholder Collaboration & Customer Service — 20%

• Collaborate with senior administrative and academic leadership to design effective financial systems and processes.

• Develop a deep understanding of unit needs and provide tailored financial support.

• Coordinate financial activities with business leaders and maintain strong working relationships across units.

• Deliver high‑quality customer service, including specialized strategic support as needed.

• Communicate financial information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.

Reporting, Systems Expertise & Continuous Improvement — 15%

• Provide financial reporting support, including ad hoc and standard reports.

• Navigate and utilize computerized financial systems effectively (e.g., Workday).

• Recommend internal control enhancements and process improvements.

• Support continuous learning, feedback, and professional development within the finance function.

• Perform related duties as assigned.

Requirements

Minimum Acceptable Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Higher‑education financial structures and funding models

• Maintain accuracy and attention to detail in complex analytical work

• Budget development processes, expenditure monitoring, and cost‑control practices

• System‑wide financial policies, definitions, and compliance requirements

• Preparing budget adjustments, journal entries, and reconciliations

• Managing multiple deadlines and maintaining organized financial records

• Clear, concise communication tailored to diverse audiences

• ERP and financial systems (e.g., Workday)

• Reviewing, classifying, and validating financial transactions

• Creating ad hoc and standard financial reports

• Using financial systems to extract, analyze, and validate data

• Documenting procedures and recommending system/process enhancements

• Learning new systems and tools quickly

• Maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive financial information

• Adapting to evolving processes, technologies, and organizational needs

• Advanced Excel modeling and data analysis

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working for a Higher Ed environment or a tax-exempt organization preferred

• Additional credentials for finance (e.g., Certified Financial An