Director of Finance

As the Director of Finance for a $32 million organization, the incumbent leads financial process optimization and compliance efforts, implementing innovative technologies and providing strategic analysis to drive informed decision-making. Lead and mentor a skilled team, fostering a culture of leadership and technology adoption while ensuring smooth operations. Prepare comprehensive financial reports, lead the annual budget process, and oversee external audits and tax returns, maintaining strict compliance with accounting principles and laws. Spearhead the development and execution of funding large-scale capital projects, collaborating with stakeholders to ensure alignment with organizational goals and financial objectives. Uphold ethical standards, establish and maintain effective controls, documentation, and legal compliance measures to safeguard the organization's integrity. Receives supervision from the Executive Director of the University of Kansas Memorial Union Corporation. Position has responsibility for management of a staff of up to four full time and part-time employees.

This position will be posted and accepting applications through May 10, 2024, or until filled. Questions can be directed to unionhr@ku.edu. Financial Leadership: Lead financial process optimization and compliance efforts, overseeing routine tasks like month-end journal entries and reconciliations. Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement new technologies for enhanced efficiency company wide. Provide strategic analysis and recommendation to drive informed decision-making while maintaining compliance with documented procedures. Identify efficiencies in reporting and processes throughout the company and beyond the business office. Managing People: Manage, recruit, and train a business office and IT resources. Delegate tasks effectively to ensure smooth and efficient operations. Foster a culture of leadership and technology adoption within the team in a collaborative atmosphere. Organization Support: Prepare comprehensive financial reports for the organization’s board of directors or executive committee. Provide insightful financial analysis, including comparisons against budget and prior years, to support decision-making. Conduct regular meetings with department leadership to suggest improvements and discuss strategic initiatives. Leads the annual budget process for an effective and timely execution. Problem-Solving: Prepare schedules for external audits and tax returns. Establish and monitor internal controls to ensure compliance and effective audits. Interpret, implement, and maintain corporate financial processes to comply with accounting principles and governmental laws. Leads the company IT strategy to provide effective hardware and systems to employee base. Effectively manage the identified ERP system, ensuring it remains cost-effective and meets business needs. Planning & Organization: Lead: Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive capital plan for a large-scale renovation project, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and financial objectives. Collaborate with key stakeholders to assess project feasibility, establish budgets, and secure necessary funding sources. Oversee the implementation of the capital plan, including project milestones, timelines, and resource allocation. Monitor project progress, manage risks, and provide regular updates to senior leadership and the board of directors. Evaluate the financial impact of the renovation project and make strategic recommendations to optimize resource allocation and ensure long-term sustainability. Business Ethics: Establish and maintain effective controls and audit capabilities, documenting policies and standard operating procedures effectively. Track management and policy documents, legal agreements, contracts, and ensure general legal compliance. Provide leadership in risk management, insurance, and liability safeguards.

Required Qualifications:1. Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field. 2. Minimum of 5 years of experience in financial management or related roles. 3. Strong understanding of accounting principles and financial analysis techniques. 4. Demonstrated experience in leading and managing a team. 5. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders at all levels. 6. Proficiency in financial software and Microsoft Office Suite. 7. Experience in capital planning and funding.

Preferred Qualifications:1. Master's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field. 2. CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or CMA (Certified Management Accountant) certification. 3. Experience working in a higher education or nonprofit organization. 4. Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems; implementation and effective utilization. 5. Experience with project management methodologies. 6. Demonstrated success in implementing innovative financial technologies or processes. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:1. Leadership: Ability to lead financial process optimization efforts and foster a culture of leadership within the team. 2. Financial Analysis: Proficiency in conducting financial analysis and providing strategic recommendations. 3. Compliance: Strong understanding of accounting principles and laws to ensure compliance. 4. Project Management: Experience in planning and executing large-scale capital projects, including budgeting and resource allocation. 5. Communication: Excellent communication skills to effectively communicate financial information to stakeholders. 6. Ethics: Commitment to upholding ethical standards and maintaining effective controls to safeguard organizational integrity.