Director of Budget, Financial Planning, & Analysis

The Director of Budget, Financial Planning, & Analysis holds a pivotal leadership role within the Division of Administration and Finance. Reporting directly to the Vice President of Administration and Finance and Chief Financial Officer (VP/CFO), this position carries the primary responsibility for a diverse range of budgetary, financial planning, and analysis functions. This includes a crucial partnership with the VP/CFO in the establishment and enforcement of effective budgetary policies. The Office of Budget, Financial Planning, & Analysis plays a central role in shaping, evaluating, and executing the University's budgetary procedures. The Director's core responsibilities encompass the meticulous review and analysis of significant financial data, serving as a cornerstone for executive decision-making processes. Furthermore, the Director assumes accountability for overall budgetary performance and is instrumental in nurturing productive and collaborative relationships with key leaders and stakeholders. Regular interactions and engagement with the Executive Leadership Team, President's Cabinet, Board of Regents members, and other stakeholders will be fundamental to this role to provide precise and transparent budgetary information.

Primary Responsibilities

• Plan and direct the operational, financial, personnel, and strategic activities for the Office of Budget, Financial Planning, & Analysis (previously Budget Office). Prepare staffing plans, and workload distribution, establish and set deadlines, prepare operating budget, and monitor expenditures for the Office.
• Plans and directs the annual institutional budgeting process; analyzes budget and actual trends; maintains budgetary controls; interprets and communicates budget results to a variety of constituencies.
• Works closely with the VP/CFO to develop, analyze, and present management information as it is necessary for financial analysis and forecasting, evaluation of programs and allocations, and to support sound executive decision-making.
• Partners with the VP/CFO in the development, evaluation, and implementation of budgetary policies, and procedures to enhance the financial health of the University.
• Responsible for the development and delivery of budgetary training programs and other financial topics in concert with the AVP, Financial Services.
• Oversees the allocation of any strategic investment funds as well as provides the monitoring of performance metrics associated with these investments (i.e. enrollment growth, benchmarks, etc.). Plays a key role in the creation and review of business plans regarding new programs or initiatives.
• Responsible for overall design, maintenance, and routine review of institutional fees (spending plans, change requests, account balances, etc.).
• Serves as a key interface with Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE) Finance Staff regarding performance funding, as well as other Commonwealth offices related to budgetary matters. Keeps VP/CFO and other leaders informed as appropriate.
• Responsible for the development and preparation of the state biennial budget request in accordance with the budget format, guidelines, and objectives prescribed by the CPE, the Office of the State Budget Director, and the Legislative Research Commission.
• Maintains an environment where transparency is key, and personal integrity and ethics in conducting University business are paramount. Ensures an effective audit trail and appropriate documentation for business transactions under the umbrella of the Director.
• Directly assesses workflow and processes to ensure efficiency while maintaining appropriate controls. Creates a culture of continuous improvement and adapts to changing business technologies.
• Provides leadership future financial planning scenarios and long-range budgetary planning in concert with VP/CFO, and AVP, Financial Services. All other duties as assigned by the VP/CFO necessary to conduct the business of the University.

Qualifications

The Director must have strong leadership skills, knowledge of federal and state finance/budget regulations, understanding of financial reporting and departmental budget planning, the ability to systematically analyze complex issues and data, business planning ability and acumen, excellent oral and written communication skills, and a proven track record of sound decision making. Strong financial analytical skills to meticulously review and analyze financial data, including the ability to perform forecasting and financial modeling; in-depth knowledge of budgeting processes, policies, and best practices, along with the ability to establish and enforce effective budgetary policies, strong understanding of financial reporting and departmental budget planning, the ability to systematically analyze complex issues and data, business planning ability and acumen, strong leadership, strategic planning, excellent oral and written communication skills, ability to interact with various stakeholders, ability to work collaboratively; problem-solving, project management, sound decision-making skills and high ethical standards. Proficiency in data management and utilization of financial software and tools for efficient financial analysis and reporting, T proficiency with Microsoft Office-Excel, Word, Powerpoint. SAP experience is a plus. A Master's degree in business or a related field is preferred and well as five years of professional experience is required. Certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Financial Planner (CFP), are a plus.