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Worcester Polytechnic Institute · 2 days ago

Senior Financial Analyst

Worcester, MA

Full-time

Hybrid

Mid, Senior Level

$83K/yr - $93K/yr

4+ years exp

Worcester Polytechnic Institute is seeking a Senior Financial Analyst who will work closely with colleagues across the institution to understand their business processes and reporting needs. The role involves conducting financial analysis, supporting strategic initiatives, and enhancing systems for improved efficiency.

CommunitiesEducationHigher EducationSTEM Education

Responsibilities

Develop and conduct in-depth financial analysis across all fund types, including operating budgets, cash flows, and financial statements, strategic sourcing and long-term financial planning to uncover trends, patterns, risks and actionable insights. Contribute to analysis and short- and long-range financial plan development in support of the University's mission in coordination with other divisions

Reporting to AVP of Finance & Operations, assist CFO, AVP and Finance team in preparing ad-hoc analyses, reports, presentations, and data analytics to support strategic initiatives, the annual and multi-year budget processes. Provides clear, accurate, and concise explanations of changes in budgets and actuals

Perform research on industry best practices and benchmarks to support the budget process and senior leadership decision-making. Design, build, and maintain dynamic dashboards, scorecards, and KPIs to track financial performance and business drivers, ensuring accuracy, timeliness and integrity of financial data

Lead the development and implementation of automated reporting tools using AI, machine learning, business intelligence (BI) platforms, and planning systems (e.g., Power BI, Workday, Adaptive, Synario) to deliver real-time, data-driven insights. Translate complex financial data into clear visuals through dashboards and reports, encompassing advanced data analysis with optimal visualization techniques. Leverage technology to improve efficiency and effectiveness to enable fact-based, timely, and collaborative decisions guided by WPI strategy

Continuously develop, assess, and enhance systems and processes to achieve greater efficiencies, while also formulating recommendations for policies and procedures that impact budgetary models and initiatives within WPI

Maintain planning models, systems and tools to support scenario planning, forecasting, and strategic decision-making (Synario, excel, Adaptive), ensuring efficient management and support

Serve as a collaborative partner to cross-functional teams, offering expert problem-solving, comprehensive training, and strategic guidance on financial planning and analysis

Support finance & operations division (IT, facilities, police, finance) with day-to-day financial analysis, training and support

Stay abreast of emerging trends within the industry as well as in financial automation, data visualization, and AI integration. Serve as backup for forecasting, budgeting and support functions. Other duties determined necessary in support of the overall responsibilities of the Division of Finance & Operations

Qualification

Financial analysisAdvanced ExcelData visualizationSynarioPower BIAdaptive PlanningProblem-solvingCommunication skillsOrganizational skillsTeam collaboration

Required

Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or other relevant field

Minimum 4 years of progressive demonstrated success in an FP&A or other finance/accounting position or related position with similar duties

Excellent analytical, research, and problem-solving skills with attention to detail and ability to manage competing deadlines

Demonstrated advanced Excel skills or similar skills and ability to design complex spreadsheets and pivot tables utilizing advanced formulas (Power Query, Power pivots (including measures), x-lookup and other advanced functions, conditional formatting, etc.)

Highly collaborative working style with excellent consultative, analytical, communication, and customer service skills. Ability to summarize analytical work and present findings in a visually compelling way

Strong organizational skills, and ability to use them in a fast-paced, highly productive environment

A commitment to quality, innovation, and process improvement with an emphasis on collaborative teamwork and high customer service standards

Ability to plan and direct projects and to lead innovative, strategic initiatives

Personal maturity and the ability to work with and maintain confidential information are essential