Financial Analyst

POSITION SUMMARY

The Stanford University Graduate School of Education (GSE) is seeking a full‑time Financial Analyst to join the Dean's Office Finance and Research Administration Team. The GSE's Finance and Research Administration team supports a critical function in the school's operational success. By stewarding the school's financial resources, we ensure that our educators, researchers, and administrators have the necessary information and tools to excel in their roles and advance the GSE's teaching and research mission.

Reporting to the Sr. Director of Finance and collaborating with faculty and staff across the school, the Financial Analyst will perform finance functions requiring advanced analytical skills, attention to detail, curiosity, and independence. Such activities include, but are not limited to: budgeting and forecasting, conducting financial analysis and reporting projects; reviewing and approving financial transactions and contracts; reconciling accounts; applying, assessing and improving internal controls;

processing fund transfers; adjusting labor schedules; and advising staff and faculty on finance matters.

This position is based on Stanford's main campus and will be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement (partly in‑person, partly remote), with a minimum of 3 in‑person days per week.

• Perform and design adhoc analyses of large complex data sets: reconcile complex accounts. Identify and resolve complex issues which may span multiple areas.
• Prepare or review and approve financial transactions and service agreements.
• Construct and assemble data for budgeting and decision making; develop conclusions, and present high level summary of recommendations. May develop annual budget for individual department/unit.
• Conduct analysis and resolution, and recognize exceptions. Participate in developing solutions that may require policy changes or the development of new processes; maintain broader organizational perspective in decision making.
• Execute internal control programs established by management, research new regulations, and recommend and implement approved changes.
• May manage compliance program for area of responsibility, and create complex compliance reports.
• Develop reports and presentations of complex financial data and metrics for management and third parties.
• Participate as a member of a project team; support new initiatives. Make decisions determining approach to managing and completing processes.
• Contribute to unit and organization strategy; assist in the development of change management plans and materials as needed.
• Work with faculty members to manage the proposal preparation and/or post‑award activities on grants, contracts, program projects, and federal grants.
• Develop and maintain desktop procedures and process documentation for area of responsibility.
• Define requirements, develop and implement complex test cases, perform system testing and analyze results.
• Participate in critical analysis of existing systems and processes, and identify opportunities for process improvement.
• Provide consulting advice to client group(s); serve as a resource on matters that require specific technical, financial, or subject matter expertise; support negotiations with external partners.
• May supervise, train, coach, and review the work of other staff, as needed. Contribute primarily through applying individual expertise.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree and four years of relevant experience or combination of education and relevant experience.
• Advanced analytical skills to review and analyze complex financial information.
• Advanced proficiency in business applications, such as Microsoft Office suite, especially Excel.
• Demonstrated knowledge of financial systems; internet and computer literacy.
• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Strong communication skills, including ability to prepare materials for and clearly and effectively communicate information to internal and external audiences and client groups.
• Demonstrated project management skills and ability to contribute to or lead part of a multi‑functional team.

DESIRED…