"Utilities Financial Analyst"

Overview

As a member of the Operations Finance and Administration department, this position is responsible for supporting Finance Operations across Utilities. The role is responsible for the processing of accounting transactions, purchase orders, and invoices; facilitates internal charges related to University Service Providers; and ensures compliance with established internal controls and financial policies. The role also performs unit-specific financial functions and provides analytical and administrative support to ensure operational accuracy and efficiency. Serving as a liaison between Utilities and other University departments, this position manages inquiries related to billing and financial transactions, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and timely resolution. Oversees the utilities bill paying and consumption tracking system (ECAP) assuring timely and accurate payment/downstream carbon reporting of utilities bills. Serves as a liaison between Utilities and University departments for questions related to the internal billing of Utilities services, as well as a point of contact for Utility companies and numerous data requests.

Required Skills and Abilities

1. Strong analytical and quantitative skills with proficiency in financial modeling and data analysis.
2. Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to adapt communication style to various audiences.
3. Advanced computer skills, particularly in Microsoft Excel, Word, and other relevant software.
4. Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and operate effectively in a fast-paced environment.
5. Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team, showing initiative and problem-solving abilities.

Preferred Skills and Abilities

1. Thorough knowledge of accounting practices, procedures and generally accepted accounting principles. Excellent analytical skills.
2. Proven ability to organize and prepare detailed and complex statement and reports.
3. Well developed computer knowledge and demonstrated ability with a strong proficiency in computer based accounting and financial systems, spreadsheet and database query tools. (Workday, Excel, Access, Word, PowerPoint). Ability to learn to use Microsoft Power BI.
4. Outstanding interpersonal/customer service skills, oral and written communication skills.
5. Demonstrated ability to multi-task in a complex environment. Ability to work successfully in team settings. Accuracy in the performance of duties and the ability to meet deadlines is expected. Willingness to work overtime if required.

Principal Responsibilities

1. Financial Modeling and Forecasting. Provides technical analysis to determine present and future financial performance. Organizes information from a variety of sources for use in analyzing future plans and forecasts. Collaborates with all levels of management, both internally and externally, to gather, analyze, summarize, prepare, and present recommendations regarding financial plans and other complex financial matters. Researches and evaluates information to resolve issues and makes recommendations. Develops and/or executes complex financial models.
2. Financial Analysis and Reporting. Analyzes and synthesizes information and designs and creates accurate and timely reports. Designs financial reporting to meet the compliance needs of internal and external users. Extracts and consolidates data from multiple sources.
3. Financial Methods and Systems. Contributes to the planning and improvement of practices, processes and systems. Collaborates with all levels of internal and external contacts to carry out department goals. Provides a high level of service that cultivates and maintains strong working relationships and communicates effectively; takes ownership and accountability for timeliness, accuracy and relationship management.
4. Strategic Resource. Translates department finance goals into objectives. Identifies and raises potential financial opportunities, issues, risks, ideas and solutions. Identifies the appropriate stakeholders to include in consultations, communications, approvals or buy-ins for designing and implementing changes.
5. Compliance and Risk Management. Establishes, implements and/or maintains strong internal controls in areas of assigned responsibility to provide reasonable assurance of effective and appropriate resource use, accurate financial information, and adherence to contractual obligations and agreements, policies, procedures, and external regulatory requirements.
6. Mentors, leads and/or supervises staff.
7. May perform other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business, Economics or Finance and four years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Demonstrated application of financial, accounting and economic concepts.