Senior Budget Analyst

Emerson College • Boston, MA

2d • $82,150 - $102,650 • Onsite

About The Position

Join our community and experience Emerson College! Reporting to the Director of Budget and Planning, the Senior Budget Analyst will provide analytical support for budget projects, prepare budget and financial reports as requested, and work closely with other members of the College's budget and finance team to prepare the annual budget, monthly/quarterly financial review and reports, quarterly forecasting, multi-year budgets, and other projects as they arise. The Senior Budget Analyst will analyze past, present, and future trends to predict future financial performance. The Analyst will be responsible for consistent evaluations of current processes and systems, recommending appropriate changes to current practices, and working on budget issues, which may include reviewing, researching, and recommending alternative budget strategies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, economics, business administration, or a related field is required.
• Minimum of 5 -7 years of relevant experience, with 2-4 years specifically in higher education or corporate budget analysis, reporting, and forecasting is required.
• Experience that demonstrates progressive responsibility in budget analysis, financial planning, or related fields is required, preferably within a higher education or non-profit environment.
• Advanced knowledge of budgeting principles, financial forecasting, and resource allocation.
• Strong proficiency with financial management software (e.g. Banner, PeopleSoft, Workday, Workday Adaptive Planning) and advanced Excel skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to present complex financial information in a clear, concise, and accessible manner to non-financial stakeholders.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• Intellectual and mental concentration is required for extended periods.
• Requires constant coordination of mental and visual attention.
• Requires the ability to sit or stand for long periods.
• Light lifting and occasional movement of objects.

Nice To Haves

• A master's degree or relevant certification (e.g., CPA, CMA, CGFM) is strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in financial management systems (e.g. Banner, PeopleSoft, Workday, and Workday Adaptive Planning) is preferred.
• Familiarity with the unique financial challenges of higher education institutions, including experience with tuition revenue modeling, grant management, and endowment fund budgeting.
• Experience with institutional accreditation processes and financial reporting requirements.

Responsibilities

• Budget Development, Forecasting, and Management: Lead the development and management of the annual budget, coordinating with department heads.
• Monitor budget execution to ensure expenditures align with the approved budget.
• Analyze and adjust budgets based on performance and financial changes, performing variance analysis to track budget vs. actual financial performance.
• Prepare long-term financial projections and assist in strategic financial planning.
• Conduct cost-benefit analyses for potential initiatives, identify trends, and recommend financial strategies.
• Develop scenario plans for different financial conditions or organizational changes.
• Reporting, Compliance, and Risk Management: Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports to internal and external stakeholders.
• Communicate financial findings and provide recommendations to senior management.
• Collaborate with departments to review budget performance and ensure understanding of financial data.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations, policies, and internal controls.
• Support internal audits and maintain accurate financial records.
• Identify and mitigate financial risks to protect the organization’s financial stability.
• Process Improvement, Systems Management and Leadership: Continuously seek improvements in budget processes to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Manage financial systems and tools to ensure data integrity and reporting capabilities.
• Provide training and guidance to all community members on budgeting techniques and using financial management systems.
• Provide leadership and guidance to junior financial staff.
• Collaborate with various departments to ensure financial strategies are well understood and executed.

Benefits

• In addition to a competitive salary, Emerson College is committed to the health and well-being of our employees and family members.
• We offer a generous benefits package to regular staff scheduled to work 20+ hours per week.
• Benefits include outstanding health plans with limited out-of-pocket expenses, dental plans, generous time-off programs, and a 403(b) retirement benefit with a 9% employer contribution once eligible.
• Additional benefits such as life and disability coverage as well as commuter offerings are available.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level