Senior Director of Financial Planning and Analysis

Senior Director of Financial Planning and Analysis - Division of Student Affairs

Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University’s Division of Student Affairs is searching for a Senior Director of Financial Planning and Analysis to join the Business and Financial Operations area within the Finance Department. This is a senior member of the Student Affairs leadership team that will support the overall mission and strategic goals of the division.

Reporting to the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs Business and Financial Operations, this position is responsible for providing forecasting and financial modeling expertise to aid leadership in assessment of financial performance, as well as assessing strategic priorities for short, medium and long-term goals and objectives. Additionally, this position will serve as business partner to divisional leadership by assessing and consulting about the financial implications of business decisions and critical initiatives. This position will create and run financial models using various tools for the purpose of planning, reviewing, analyzing and reporting. Leading a team of finance professionals who handle the division’s accounting and financial processes, the Senior Director is responsible for cultivating critical relationships and engaging cross-functionally with key collaborators in order to steward, maintain and analyze the $110M+ dollar annual budget for the division.

Your primary responsibilities will include:

• Develop complex forecasting and financial models to assess the financial performance in all areas of the division, i.e. auxiliary revenues, restricted accounts, Housing Master Plan, etc. Advise the Associate Vice President and Vice President on strategic priorities for short, medium and long-term goals and objectives Manage and oversee the accounting and financial reporting of multi-year budget processes for Student Affairs, including budget allocation and revisions, forecasting, financial review, financial planning and analysis, and working with campus business managers to solve budget related issues. Participate in the formulation, monitoring, control, and reporting of the university budget. Provide critical communication on budget and financial planning matters to University leadership with the ability to articulate results of complex analysis in simple terms. Lead Student Affairs Finance staff by mentoring, coaching and growing the team professionally. Review team member’s performance during annual performance review process and also on an ongoing basis. Assess process gaps, identify needs and implement improvements in execution. Implement and enhance information technology systems to support strategic and financial planning, budgeting, accounting and financial reporting and executive decision support. Partner with campus partners including academic and divisional leadership to manage expectations, provide resources and set priorities. Plan and develop long and short-term strategies for continuous quality improvements such as the design of information systems and innovative solutions. Evaluate and assist in the formulation of policies, procedures, and guidelines. Interpret and disseminate policies, procedures, and related financial information to all levels of the campus community. Collaborate with partners and team members to collect appropriate data for developing models in Tableau and other data tools to tell the division’s financial story to the Vice President, President, Budget Office and relevant collaborators. Participate and lead the formulation, monitoring, analyzing and reporting on divisional funds. Provide other special analysis, reporting and presentations to divisional leadership on an as needed basis. Represent the division at university meetings of the Administrative Leadership Group (ALG). Serves as the college’s financial contact for central university offices. Other projects/duties as assigned to support the department.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in accounting, finance, or related field required; Master’s degree preferred 8-10 years relevant work experience required A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered Ability to quickly establish credibility by building partnerships across the University in order to provide valuable decision support which promotes both the University’s and Student Affairs mission and strategic goals. Consistent record in conducting and leading complex, data-driven financial planning and analysis with ability to drive and implement standard methodologies. Strong critical thinking skills, attention to detail and advanced Excel abilities. Experience with data visualization tools such as Tableau is a plus. Possess strong business and financial competence with intentional approach of continuous improvement Outstanding verbal and written communication skills with the ability to articulate results of complex analysis in simple terms. Thrive in a collaborative environment, exude a thorough approach, while keeping sight of the “big picture”. Highly adaptable in managing multiple projects and priorities; deadline driven.

Flexibility, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within the Division of Student Affairs. Inclusion, collaboration and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who is able to effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Additional desired experience or qualifications:

• Experience with Oracle financial database system for non-profit organizations Experience with auxiliary and recharge operations Experience with supervision of staff (i.e. direct reports)

Requirements:

• Successful background check

Applications must include a resume and cover letter. Priority consideration will be given for applications received by January 16th, 2025.

Additional Information:

• Work Posture: This position requires you to report five days per week at the beginning while learning the role, but operates on a hybrid schedule, with an on-campus/in office presence one days a week thereafter. Typical Work Schedule: Monday-Friday from 8:30-5:00pm. An alternate work schedule allowing for evening and weekend hours will be required on occasion. Sponsorship: Applicants for this position must be currently legally authorized to work for CMU in the United States. CMU will not sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity.

NOMINATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES:

Carnegie Mellon University has retained Ferra Executive Search for assistance in this exciting search.

All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited.

Applications should include a cover letter/letter of interest, CV, or resume.

For fullest consideration, application materials should be received by Monday, January 16th.

Application materials should be submitted using CMU’s career page.

If you have any inquiries or nominations, please send an email to:

Kevin Ferra, Founding Partner

Ferra Executive Search

kevin@ferrasearch.com

Please use ‘Senior Director of Financial Planning and Analysis – Division of Student Affairs' as the subject line when you contact Kevin. 

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits available to eligible employees.

Those employees who are benefits eligible have the opportunity to experience the full spectrum of advantages from comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance to an enticing retirement savings program offering a generous employer contribution. You can also unlock your potential with tuition benefits and take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays. Finally, rest easy knowing you are covered by life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Other perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and so much more

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits that may be awaiting you, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond just credentials, we consider the role and responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique skills and the diverse perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization? Apply today