OVERALL PURPOSE
General Accountability:
Provides support in the areas of financial planning and budgeting, financial analysis, financial statement reviews, problem resolution and general financial and business advice to Faculties, Schools and Divisions (FSD). Responsibilities include:

• performing effective financial planning and analysis and budget development to assist leaders within assigned portfolio to adjust and commit resources toward FSD and organizational priorities;
• working closely with the Financial Reporting team in providing advice to budget holders that correctly applies generally accepted accounting principles; and
• supporting the development of certain year-end financial statement working papers.

A high degree of professionalism and strict confidentiality is required when dealing with various situations, reviews and analysis.

Organization and Structure:
The Financial Planning and Analysis department is the first point of contact for FSDs for all budget related issues. The Financial Planning Consultant reports directly to the Manager, Financial Planning & Budget and works closely with academic and administrative leaders (Provost, VP A&F, Deans, AVPs, Directors, etc.) within the assigned portfolio.

Nature and Scope:
As the first point of contact, the Financial Planning Consultant provides comprehensive, strategic and operational advice, guidance and support in all facets of financial management, accounting (while working closely with the Financial Reporting team), and financial planning to academic and administrative leaders and their respective departments and faculties across campus. The Financial Planning Consultants also collaborate to develop and implement best practice financial planning processes, policies and systems that support the University’s leaders and managers.

Key to the success of the Financial Planning Consultant is their ability to develop strategic partnerships, understanding the key challenges of the faculties, schools & departments and providing coaching and advice based on best practice and a good understanding of generally accepted accounting principles within their assigned portfolios. The Financial Planning Consultant will operate with considerable independence, while exercising discretion and initiative, have a high degree of motivation, critical thinking and professional judgment.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Developing short and long-range financial plans to optimize the portfolio's financial effectiveness in alignment with the portfolio and institutional strategic goals.

• Advising academic and administrative leaders within respective portfolio on strategic, budget, appropriate accounting treatment in conjunction with the Financial Reporting department, resource and staffing decision-making.

• Managing the coordination and review of annual budgets and quarterly forecasts for all units within assigned portfolio

• Providing strategic advice on the effective and efficient use of financial and human resources to portfolio that is consistent with organizational objectives

• Establishing and monitoring relevant financial indicators for each unit in the portfolio.

• Monitoring the overall financial effectiveness and efficiency of all FSDs within assigned portfolio, in consultation with the Deans, AVPs and Directors.

• Providing advice on the application of financial policies and procedures.

• Serving as liaison between the FSDs and Finance Department on all financial matters and dissemination of information.

• Providing financial advice, support and assistance to FSD staff.

• Participating in the evaluation and implementation of systems and tools

• Providing mentoring and education for FSD staff

• Participating in the development and delivery of campus wide training initiatives

• Working in collaboration with other Financial Planning Consultants to share knowledge, best practices, and opportunities for improving efficiencies.

• Train new Budget Officers on processes and procedures

• Keeping abreast of issues pertaining to units within the portfolio, including participation on University committees.

REPORTS TO
Manager, Financial Planning and Budget

QUALIFICATIONS

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS
Qualifications & Experience:

• Canadian Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation

• 7 years of progressive accounting experience in a computerized environment including experience in developing spreadsheets, budgets and forecasts, analytical reports and financial statements.

• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered with preference given to candidates with a CPA designation.

Skills & Knowledge:

• Advanced experience with complex reconciliations and analysis of large amounts of financial and other data.

• Experience with integrated financial reporting and budget tools and models.

• Demonstrated ability to develop and utilize complex spreadsheets and financial models.

• Advanced computer skills in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc.).

• Demonstrated ability to translate budget and financial data and scenarios in non-technical terms to non-financial stakeholders.

• Strong skills at providing positive and improved customer service

• Strong organizational and planning skills, including ability to determine priorities, be self-directed, and work with minimal supervision.

• Experience in an academic or complex professional environment

• Ability to work effectively under pressure and short time lines.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills with strong attention to detail.

• Ability to independently apply knowledge of policies and procedures.

*Please note that the salary for this position is under review*