What are the responsibilities and job description for the Business Officer position at Lamar University?
Job Summary
The Business Officer serves as the primary administrator for the financial and business affairs of the academic colleges, the College of Arts & Sciences, and the College of Fine Arts & Communication. This position provides strategic and operational leadership in budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, resource planning, and financial management to support the academic and administrative objectives of the college or division. The Business Officer ensures compliance with university policies and contributes to data-informed decision-making across divisional units and central administration.
Essential Job Functions
- Develop, manage, and monitor annual operating budgets in coordination with leadership and the central budget office.
- Prepare multi-year financial forecasts, budget models, and scenario planning tools to provide variance analysis with actionable recommendations.
- Produce timely financial reports for deans, department chairs, division leaders, and the central budget office.
- Analyze revenue streams, including tuition, fees, grants, sales, services, and endowments.
- Coordinate financial processes related to hiring, procurement, travel, and contracts.
- Ensure efficient financial operations by aligning workflows with university systems and identifying opportunities for improvement.
- Assist with resource planning, space allocation, and equipment purchases.
- Ensure adherence to university financial policies, procedures, and internal controls.
- Serve as the college or division point of contact for compliance with state and federal financial regulations.
- Partner with academic or division leadership to align financial resources with strategic goals.
- Provide financial guidance to support academic program expansion, accreditation requirements, or new initiatives.
- Ensure the integration of college or division-level planning with institutional priorities.
Minimum and Desired Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field required.
Required Qualifications:
- Minimum of 3 years of progressively responsible experience in budgeting, financial management, or administration—preferably in higher education or a public sector environment.
Supplemental Information
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency in financial systems, Excel, and data visualization tools.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and work collaboratively.
- Knowledge of higher education funding models and academic operations is a plus
Physical Requirements: Able to lift 25 lbs and be able to perform a variety of physical tasks, including lifting, bending, stooping, squatting, stair climbing, and walking between buildings.
Lamar University is An Equal Opportunity Employer
Lamar University is proud to provide employment preference to veteran applicants in accordance with Texas 805 Government Code, Section 657.003.
This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of the Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information.