Assistant Director of Finance

Department: College of Public Health

Classification: Administrative Faculty

Job Category: Administrative or Professional Faculty

Job Type: Full-Time

Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)

Location: Fairfax, VA

Workplace Type: On Site Required

Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience

Criminal Background Check: Yes

About the Department:

George Mason University’s College of Public Health prepares students to become leaders and shape the public’s health through academic excellence, professional service, and innovative practice and research initiatives. CPH has five academic units which enroll more than 3,000 students in its nationally-recognized offerings, including: 5 undergraduate degrees, 13 graduate degrees, and 7 certificate programs.

About the Position:

The Assistant Director of Finance plays a pivotal role in the financial management and strategic planning initiatives within the College of Public Health. Reporting directly to the Chief Business Officer, this position is responsible for overseeing various financial operations, conducting data analytics, forecasting, and ensuring the efficient utilization of financial resources. Additionally, the Assistant Director of Finance collaborates closely with Academic Affairs to analyze student enrollment trends and their impact on revenue generation across academic units. The Assistant Director of Finance possesses an understanding of financial principles, including excellent analytical skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities:

Financial Reporting and Compliance

• Generates accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, including variance analysis and performance metrics;
• Ensures all financial reporting complies with university policies and external regulations;
• Develops and distributes financial statements and projections for internal and external stakeholders;
• Prepares the College's financial statements and year-end financial processes; and
• Attends meetings, as needed, to remain up-to-date on systems and procedures. 

Budget Management and Development

• Leads the development, implementation, and oversight of the College's annual budget;
• Manages the budget development process by working closely with academic departments and other units;
• Conducts regular budget reviews, analyzes variances, and prepares adjustments to ensure the College meets financial targets; and
• Provides recommendations for resource allocation, cost-saving initiatives, and budget strategies to optimize financial outcomes. 

Strategic Financial Planning

• Supports long-range financial planning efforts, including the development of multi-year forecasts for revenues, expenses, and fund balances;
• Collaborates with senior leadership to align financial plans with the College’s strategic goals;
• Conducts financial feasibility studies for new programs, initiatives, and capital projects; and
• Updates and maintains financial models to assess future trends, financial risks, and potential opportunities. 

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Leads the collection, analysis, and interpretation of financial data to support decision-making and financial planning;
• Uses Business Intelligence (BI) software and tools to develop financial models, reports, and dashboards; and
• Provides analytical support for academic program financial performance and ROI analysis. 

Cash Flow Management and Internal Controls

• Ensures effective cash flow management by monitoring accounts receivable, accounts payable, and cash balances;
• Maintains strong internal controls by developing, documenting, and monitoring financial procedures;
• Ensures compliance with university and state audit requirements, responding to audit inquiries as needed; and
• Identifies areas for financial control improvement and implements solutions to enhance efficiency and accuracy. 

Enrollment Impact and Collaboration

• Collaborates with Academic Affairs to analyze the impact of student enrollment trends on revenue generation. 

Special Projects and Administrative Support

• Manages special projects related to finance, including