What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Director of Budget and Risk Management position at Vincennes University?
Assistant Director of Budget and Risk Management
Who We Are
At Vincennes University, our goal is to provide a positive work experience for all employees. We offer an environment in which employees are recognized, rewarded, and encouraged to grow personally and professionally.
At Vincennes University, you’ll have the opportunity to work with great people, tackle big challenges, and make a real impact. All departments work together as part of a team dedicated to student success, and everyone’s contribution and ideas are valued and welcome.
VU is a diverse community whose members all share a responsibility for supporting the University’s mission and are respected for their contributions. We empower people to connect with one another, build community, and do work that is meaningful for them, for our institution, and our students.
What You’ll Do
The Assistant Director of Budget and Risk Management plays a pivotal role in all aspects of budget management and development for the University. This position exercises significant independent judgment in the development and interpretation of financial models, forecasts, and scenarios that directly inform institutional strategy, resource allocation, and Board-level decision-making. Accuracy, rigor, and sound judgment are critical, as errors or omissions could have material financial and operational consequences for the University. Areas of responsibility over policy, procedure, and implementation include insurance, claims, insurance placement and renewals, workers compensation and loss control.
How You’ll Succeed
- Collaborates with college or area leadership to develop and manage budgets and facilitates routine meetings and reporting to review financial performance and strategic goals and priorities.
- Reviews budget estimates and proposals for completeness and accuracy, monitors expenditures against approved budgets, and provides detailed variance analyses with recommendations for corrective actions.
- Understands the business and functional drivers underlying budget performance and can explain the story behind the numbers to both financial and non- financial leaders and colleagues.
- Collaborates on the development and implementation of the University's annual budget calendar, establishes templates and guidelines for budget preparation, and ensures consistent application of standard processes for budgeting, forecasting, and maintaining financial documentation.
- Collaborates to align financial planning with the university's mission and long-term goals, providing expertise in both short-term and long-term strategic financial planning.
- Provides guidance and support in identifying and addressing operational risks.
- Assist in managing the University’s insurance programs including property, casualty, liability, workers’ compensation and other relevant insurance policies.
- Supports special projects and emerging initiatives, requiring a broad understanding of the university's fiscal objectives and the ability to adapt to evolving priorities.
- Exercises sound judgment, maintains confidentiality, and demonstrates strong analytical and communication skills to effectively manage complex financial processes. Deliver actionable insights that support decision-making at the highest levels of the institution.
- Oversees both short-term and long-term strategic budget and financial planning.
What We’re Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance or Accounting; and five years of relevant experience.
- Demonstrate leadership and resource & risk management capabilities.
- Demonstrated expertise in budget development, financial analysis, and strategic planning.
- Strong understanding of financial systems, policies, and compliance requirements.
- Strong communicator with a collaborative, team-oriented mindset, adept at engaging senior-level personnel. Ability to work effectively across areas of the University through clear, professional verbal and written communication.
- Proficient in using Microsoft products, including but not limited to Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
- Willing to learn and embrace technology including third party software products along with AI.
- Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
Bonus Points
- At least five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in budget and financial management, preferably in higher education or a complex nonprofit organization.
Additional Information
- This position is a full-time position which entails a 75-hour work week for a bi-weekly pay period. It may require some additional hours as needed for coverage.