Business Officer II

Business Officer II - 000525

Western Carolina University

Department: Office, Dean, Arts & Sciences

Position Summary:

The primary location of this position is on-site in Cullowhee, NC. This position is designated as being exempt from the State of North Carolina Human Resources Act (EHRA).

The College of Arts and Sciences Business Officer reports to the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and serves as an integral member of the colleges leadership team. The Business Officer provides strategic fiscal oversight for the College and acts as a key liaison between the Deans Office and the colleges departments and academic programs.

As the Universitys largest college, the College of Arts and Sciences includes 12 departments and numerous academic programs. The Business Officer oversees the colleges budget and related funds, supporting effective financial planning and operational decision-making across the organization.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Managing the college budget and component funds
• Leading annual budget planning and forecasting processes
• Conducting financial analysis and preparing reports for leadership
• Supporting resource allocation and cost management initiatives
• Monitoring expenditures and ensuring compliance with University policies and procedures

The Business Officer serves as a primary resource for department administrative staff and faculty on fiscal and budget-related matters. This includes assisting departments with procurement processes, resolving account and transaction issues, interpreting funding and expenditure policies, and helping users navigate University business systems.

The position also plays a key role in training and supporting college personnel in enterprise business systems, including Banner Finance and related financial applications.

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Proficiency in spreadsheet-based financial analysis and reporting
• Experience working with Banner Finance or similar enterprise financial systems
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
• The ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Sound judgment, attention to detail, and a collaborative approach to problem-solving

Additional duties may be assigned based on the operational needs of the College and University.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required for this position:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Interested candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employment sponsorship or any other immigration-related assistance.
• Masters degree and 1-2 years of relevant work-related experience (Bachelors degree and 2-4 years of relevant work-related experience will be considered).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience working in an administrative or business support role at a post-secondary institution of higher learning.
• Working knowledge of Ellucian Banner Finance, fund accounting, and higher education budget structures.

Position Type: Permanent Full-Time