Financial Strategy and Operations Specialist - Smeal College of Business

Financial Strategy and Operations Specialist
- Smeal College of Business### Financial Strategy and Operations Specialist
- Smeal College of Business Apply:
Remote:
Penn State University Park:
Full time:
Posted Today:
REQ #
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** Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.**###   
** POSITION SPECIFICS
** The
** Financial Strategy and Operations Specialist
** supports the business unit and Strategic Finance Partner in the
** Smeal College of Business
** by providing oversight and expert guidance to unit leaders on budget and financial matters; serving as a subject matter expert in one or more budget and fiscal-related areas; advising unit leaders on budget management and financial controls; providing in-depth financial analysis, forecasting, and budget modeling; and playing a key role in long-term financial planning efforts to ensure effective resource allocation aligns with the University's mission, strategic goals, and regulatory requirements.

** The successful candidate will:
*** Support budgeting and forecasting efforts by developing financial projections, preparing budget analyses, and participating in the annual budget process
* Develop financial models, scenario analyses, and long-range forecasts to support strategic planning and decision-making
* Prepare and review departmental financial reports to identify and explain variances between budgeted and actual results; analyze trends in revenues, expenditures, enrollment, and funding sources; and ensure appropriate spending and billing practices are followed
* Monitor financial performance against budget and forecast, identifying risks, opportunities, and areas requiring corrective action
* Provide financial analysis to support new initiatives, program reviews, and business plans, including return on investment (ROI) and cost-benefit assessments
* Assist in the development and preparation of annual operating budgets, ensuring alignment with unit objectives and institutional priorities
* Support compliance with university policies, external regulations, and audit requirements
* Collaborate with University offices and stakeholders to ensure consistent data sources, accurate reporting, and reliable financial projections
* May supervise a staff member, including training and performance management
** Required skills and experience include:
*** Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including data analysis, financial modeling, and reporting.

Experience with budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis, and variance reporting.
* Strong financial management and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial and operational data and translate it into actionable insights and recommendations for leadership
* Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities, including the capacity to identify financial and operational risks, resolve complex issues, and develop and recommend process improvements
* Effective written, verbal, and consultative communication skills, with the ability to explain…