Budget Analyst

Position Summary

The Budget Analyst supports the institution’s financial planning efforts by leading the development of annual operating and capital budgets, multiyear (3–5 year) forecasts, program‑level financial analyses, variance analyses, and long‑range financial models. This position plays a key role in supporting strategic decision‑making and institutional planning by providing accurate, actionable financial insights, scenario analyses, and pro forma modeling for new programs, initiatives, and partnerships. The Budget Analyst collaborates with academic and administrative departments across the College to ensure transparency, alignment of resources with priorities, and strong fiscal stewardship.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Budget Development and Management

• Lead the preparation of the annual operating and capital budgets, including program‑level budget development where applicable.
• Maintain and update budgeting tools, templates, models, and guidance to ensure consistency and accuracy.
• Partner with departments to ensure budget submissions—including program‑level data—are complete, reasonable, and aligned with institutional priorities.
• Prepare annual budget presentation materials for senior leadership, the Finance and Audit Committee of the Board, and the Board of Trustees.

Forecasting, Long‑Range Planning, and Scenario Analysis

• Develop and maintain multiyear financial forecasts (3–5 years), including program‑level projections, enrollment‑driven models, revenue assumptions, and cost structures.
• Produce scenario analyses to evaluate the financial impact of changes in enrollment, operations, programs, and strategic initiatives.
• Support the CFO in the creation of long‑range institutional financial plans and sustainability strategies. 

Financial Analysis, Monitoring & Reporting

• Deliver monthly, quarterly, and annual variance reports with clear explanations of key drivers and trends.
• Provide analysis, commentary, and recommendations to departments and senior leadership based on budget‑to‑actual performance.
• Assist in developing dashboard metrics, KPIs, and other analytic tools to improve budget transparency and accountability at both institutional and program levels.

Pro Forma Modeling and Program‑Level Financial Analyses

• Build Return-on-Investment analyses and financial models for new academic programs, strategic partnerships, capital projects, and other institutional initiatives.
• Conduct ongoing program‑level financial analyses to support academic planning, enrollment strategies, and resource allocation.
• Work closely with Academic Affairs, Enrollment, Business Development, Advancement and senior leadership to evaluate financial feasibility and strategic alignment of programs.
• Prepare decision‑ready analysis for senior leadership‑level review, including sensitivity testing and risk considerations.

Collaboration & Communication

• Serve as a financial resource to department heads, providing guidance on budget management, program‑level analysis, and financial planning.
• Develop and deliver training on budget processes, tools, and financial concepts as needed.
• Communicate complex financial information clearly and effectively to both financial and non‑financial audiences.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Data Analytics, or related field.
• Demonstrated experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial modeling.
• High proficiency with Excel (advanced formulas, pivot tables, modeling), forecasting tools, and data visualization platforms.
• Strong analytical, quantitative, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and produce accurate work under time constraints.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• 
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in higher education, nonprofit finance, governmental budgeting, or program‑level financial evaluation.
• Familiarity with ERP systems.