Senior Finance and Budget Director

Under the direction of the Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, with a dotted line to the Associate Provost for Finance and Faculty Affairs, this position oversees financial operations within the Academic Affairs division, including budgeting and fiscal planning, financial reporting, analytics, and compliance with university and state regulations. The role holds the Provost's delegated authority to review and approve all staff personnel actions in the division and is responsible for supporting strategic planning, resource allocation, and operational efficiency for the division.

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field and at least 4-7 years of financial management experience, preferably within a higher education setting. A Master's degree is preferred. Candidates with an equivalent combination of experience and/or education will be considered.

The successful candidate should demonstrate a strong knowledge of accounting principles, budgeting, and financial management within an academic context. Proficiency in financial systems and Excel, including the ability to develop and analyze financial models, create reports, and interpret financial data, is required. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are necessary for collaboration and effective interaction with a broad array of audiences and constituencies. Demonstrated management skills, including supervising staff, developing operational efficiencies, and fostering a collaborative team environment, are also required. The ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple responsibilities, and adapt to evolving departmental needs is essential.

The role requires an independent and detail-oriented professional who can effectively lead financial operations, ensure compliance with financial regulations, and foster collaboration across diverse stakeholders.

Please complete the application to include all current and previous work history and education. A resume will not be accepted nor reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position.

*Salary is commensurate with education/experience which exceeds the minimum requirements.

Offers of employment are contingent upon a successful background and credit check.

All applications must be submitted online https://jobs.cofc.edu.

The College of Charleston is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any individual or group on the basis of sex, gender (including gender identity and/or expression), pregnancy, race, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, and other classifications protected by applicable federal, state, and local laws. For more information, please visit eop.cofc.edu.

Leads the budgeting process for the Academic Affairs division, collaborating with unit leaders to gather, review, and approve budget requests, incorporating revenue projections, resource allocation, and expenditure tracking. Works closely with the EVP for Academic Affairs / Provost, the Associate Provost for Finance and Faculty Affairs, and key members of the Business Affairs team to develop budget strategies aligned with divisional and institutional goals, ensuring funds are optimally allocated. Analyzes budget reports for internal and external stakeholders, identifies trends, and ensures compliance with relevant financial regulations, policies, and procedures.

Manages the preparation and submission of required financial reports, including any necessary divisional audit documentation, ensuring timeliness, accuracy, and compliance with reporting standards. Monitors the financial status and performance of schools and units reporting to the EVP for Academic Affairs and Office of the Provost, including work to address financial issues. Conducts in-depth financial analysis and forecasting to inform divisional decision-making and develop fiscal strategies. Streamlines financial reporting processes and addresses complex financial reporting requirements as needed by both internal and external stakeholders.

Coordinates with the university's financial operations units such as Budgeting and Payroll Services, Accounts Payable, the Treasurer's Office, and Procurement, ensuring that all financial transactions, including vendor payments, reimbursements, purchase orders, and budget transactions, are processed in a timely and accurate manner. Enforces policies and procedures for efficient financial operations, identifying opportunities for improvement and implementing changes to streamline purchasing, travel, and other operational processes. Monitors adherence to institutional and divisional policies that address the use of institutional and Foundation-held funds, including funds awarded to the College by external granting agencies. Regularly reviews Office of the Provost expenditures, ensuring alignment with the approved budget and compliance with financial policies.

Prepares and presents financial updates and reports to divisional leadership and other key stakeholders. These presentations may include budget status, variance analysis, and financial projections to support data-driven decision-making. Provides strategic guidance on policy development, making recommendations based on current financial performance, budget forecasts, and long-term financial goals. Engages with internal and external constituents to communicate financial objectives and educate stakeholders on fiscal policies and financial management best practices. Provides regular professional development to school-level financial officers and representatives of other units reporting to the Office of the Provost.

Working closely with the Office of Human Resources, conducts division-level reviews and approvals of personnel actions, including posting requests, hiring proposals, and temporary and permanent salary adjustments. Ensures compliance with university and state policies regarding employment practices and maintains accurate records for audits and reporting purposes.

Maintains documentation of budgeting policies and procedures to ensure that comprehensive and up-to-date resources are available for budgeting/business officers across the division. Serves as p-card liaison for Office of the Provost staff and for the provost's direct reports who do not have administrative support. Reviews and revises divisional operational manuals and budget documentation regularly, reflecting ongoing changes, best practices, and compliance with university and divisional standards. Maintains flexibility to adjust procedures as needed, providing guidance on complex financial issues and ensuring that the division and units within the division remain responsive to emerging needs and evolving situations.