What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Financial Accountant position at Western New England University and Careers?
PURPOSE OF THIS POSITION:
The Senior Financial Accountant will play a key role with a team that ensures accurate and timely financial reporting of the University’s financial statements. This position is primarily responsible for detailed review of accounting transactions, reconciliations including variance analysis in support of the monthly close process. Other duties encompass internal and external reporting requirements related to audits, regulatory filings and various committee meeting materials. Role also serves as a financial project specialist for cross functional initiatives including academic program analysis, capital planning, grant related projects, and operational and process improvement efforts. The ideal candidate should have necessary financial analysis, accounting, project related skills with the ability to take on non-routine ad-hoc projects.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: Supports the accounting, finance and other operational responsibilities within the Finance area and reports directly to the Assistant Vice President and Controller.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
The Senior Financial Accountant has a broad scope of responsibilities, which includes but not limited to the following:
- Financial Accounting and Reporting: Assist with financial accounting operations, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulations and standards.
- Projects: Serves as a financial project specialist for cross functional initiatives, including academic program analysis, proformas, capital planning, operational improvement efforts and various routine and ad-hoc projects as assigned
- Contract and Grant Management: Administer and monitor contracts and grants, ensuring compliance with terms and effective financial reporting.
- Gift and Cash Management: Manage incoming gifts and cash flow, maintaining records and ensuring timely and accurate processing.
- General Ledger Oversight: Support activities affecting the general ledger, including reconciliations, adjustments, and error resolution.
- Year-End Processes: Collaborate on year-end financial activities, including the preparation of financial statements and schedules.
- Audit Coordination: Addressing requests and ensuring timely provision of required documentation from external auditors.
- Financial Systems Support: Assist with maintaining and enhancing financial systems, resolving technical issues, and implementing updates.
- Projects: Serves as a financial project specialist for cross functional initiatives, including academic program analysis, proformas, capital planning, operational improvement efforts and various routine and ad-hoc projects as assigned.
Qualifications
QUALIFICATION STANDARDS:
- Bachelor’s degree in finance/accounting or related field
- CPA, Master’s degree or additional certifications preferred
- Minimum of 3-5 years of finance/accounting experience
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILL, AND ABILITIES:
- High level of accuracy, attention to detail, well organized with effective time management skills.
- Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office, other computer and software, general ledger and information systems.
- Ability to multitask, manage priorities and work under pressure to meet deadlines.
- Effective communicator with all constituents - faculty, staff, leaders, students and external customers.
- Ability to read and understand procedures manuals and other communications.
- Excellent oral & written communication skills.
- Strong team player with the ability to work with others and collaborate and assist with workload and tasks whenever necessary.
- Good quantitative and analytical skills and the ability to interpret financial data, including financial statements, key financial ratios, and other complex financial models.
- Understanding of, and commitment to, excellence in customer service.
ERGONOMIC REQUIREMENTS:
Sitting, bending, and reaching, as expected in normal office setting. Occasional lifting, not expected to exceed 25 pounds.
HOURS:
Requirements include on-site presence (limited remote / hybrid work arrangements). Work schedule includes onsite Monday through Friday normal business hours 8:30-4:30. Fast paced environment with some workload peak times that requires extended workdays and/or weekends.
Western New England University is committed to enhancing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging by acknowledging and embracing diversity of thought, opinion, and approach with colleagues regardless of background, culture, and organizational level. WNE encourages diversity in our job applicants to ensure the best culture and work outcomes.
Salary : $85,000 - $88,000