The Biological Sciences Division (BSD) is the largest operating unit of the University of Chicago. It includes the Pritzker School of Medicine, twenty-three academic departments, twelve interdisciplinary degree-granting committees, and more than a dozen research centers and institutes. Our mission is to discover and create new knowledge of living systems, to preserve and communicate knowledge through education, and to nurture and sustain a community of scholars. These scholars pursue this mission through research, the education of basic scientists, physicians, and others interested in living things, and through enlightened and compassionate care of patients in a humane, academic environment. We have a long and rich history of discovery. Our academic departments have each developed and sustained outstanding programs of research and training in a broad range of programs. These are further enhanced by interdisciplinary committees, centers, and institutes. Unique among our peers, our Pritzker School of Medicine and basic biological science programs are housed in one division, allowing for strong collaborations between basic science and clinical research. Faculty, staff, and students interact across programs and disciplines, creating collaborative and innovative approaches to the study of complex problems. As a part of the BSD Dean's Office, BSD Finance works closely with the executive leaders and financial professionals within the BSD, University, and Medical Center.
Job Summary
The job coordinates projects in monitoring the operating and capital budgets for divisions and/or University-wide administrative units. At the instruction of others, performs work that contributes to development of long and short term financial goals, business strategies/plans, and financial forecasts/models for major service programs and initiatives. Utilizes moderate knowledge of finance to help coordinate quarterly and year-end reporting for the operating budget.
Responsibilities
Analyzes budget estimates and proposals for completeness, accuracy, and conformance with established procedures, regulations, and organizational objectives. Understands key assumptions and issues.
Consolidates individual budgets into operating and capital budget summaries which argue for or against funding requests. Submits budget summaries to management.
Monitors budget variances by reviewing reports and accounting records to determine if allocated funds have been spent, and identify underlying business drivers and potential problems.
Assists managers in analyzing the proposed plan and devising possible alternatives if the projected results are unsatisfactory.
Maintains and tracks benchmarks and key business drivers, such as student funding sources, faculty commitments, grant funding, etc.
Prepares and deploys status reports to key users, providing meaningful information on projects, budgets and budget variances, statistics and productivity.
Prepares data requested by both internal customers (eg. Sr. Management, Departments, University, Medical Center) and external entities (eg. AAMC, US News and World Report, government agencies, etc.).
Provides consulting and advisory services to all levels of customers in the organization including executive and faculty leadership. Answer to inquiries by providing data analysis and relevant information, assist with financial improvement action plans, and complete various financial analysis projects as needed.
Recommends changes to systems and procedures to ensure conformance with budgetary provisions.
Provides professional and timely support for budgetary and financial matters as a primary contact for the assigned departments, units, and account owners to exceed their expectation.
Prepares budgets, monitors financial activities, analyzes variance and financial performance, and recommends action items to change the course of event if necessary.
Prepares monthly reports, conducts and correct errors in accounts using existing procedures that are in place, and provides advice on the financial impact of human resources and academic affairs decisions.
May work with other administrators on the procurement process, allocates expenditures for authorization, and advises in communications regarding funding agencies, subcontractors, and others at the instruction and direction of others.
Performs other related work as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
--- Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
--- Certifications:
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Preferred Qualifications
Education:
MBA or advanced degree in finance, public policy, not-for-profit administration, healthcare administration, or a related field.
Experience:
Experience in a university or academic medical center.
Knowledge of GAAP accounting principle, restricted fund accounting, grant accounting.
Preferred Competencies
Knowledge of financial computing and database software applications.
Knowledge of various financial principles, practices, and applications including budgeting, financial planning, financial analysis, and financial reporting.
Intellectual versatility and creativity.
Strong analytical and organizational skills, attention to detail.
Strong educational background with focus in business, economics or related technical field. Course work in accounting and finance.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills. Ability to establish and maintain relationships at all organizational levels.
Flexibility and ability to work effectively and gracefully under considerable time pressure on high visibility, high stakes projects.
Ability to work non-traditional hours when necessary.
Application Documents
Resume (required)
Cover Letter (preferred)
When applying, the document(s) MUSTbe uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Financial Management
Role Impact
Individual Contributor
FLSA Status
Exempt
Pay Frequency
Monthly
Scheduled Weekly Hours
40
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Drug Test Required
No
Health Screen Required
No
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
No
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
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