Senior Finance Operations Manager, UT System Division of Finance and Administration
Knoxville, TN - USA
Job Summary
The Senior Finance Operations Manager reports directly to the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (SVP/CFO) and serves as a strategic and operational partner supporting the Division of Finance and Administration leadership team and administrative operations through high-level analysis initiative execution and operational coordination. This role drives the advancement of key priorities by translating direction into actionable plans leading cross-functional efforts and delivering data-informed insights to support decision-making.
The primary focus is on execution analysis and operational effectiveness. The position requires strong analytical thinking organization and learning agility with the capacity to develop broader strategic capability over time. The Sr. Finance Operations Manager operates with a high degree of independence discretion and judgment enhancing the overall effectiveness and efficiency of the Division.
Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
Initiative Execution and Operational Support
Partners with the SVP/CFO to translate priorities into actionable plans timelines and deliverables.
Drives execution of key initiatives ensuring alignment with organizational goals and leadership direction.
Monitors progress identifies risks and provides recommendations to maintain momentum and achieve outcomes.
Financial Analysis & Decision Support
Conducts financial analysis including forecasting modeling and scenario planning.
Develops executive-level reports dashboards and presentations.
Synthesizes financial and operational data into clear actionable insights to support decision-making.
Project & Program Management
Leads and coordinates projects within the Division.
Establishes project plans milestones and accountability structures.
Identifies risks and dependencies and ensures timely resolution of barriers.
Operational Coordination & Effectiveness
Enhances efficiency by streamlining processes and improving workflows across finance and administrative functions.
Coordinates across departments to ensure alignment and execution of priorities.
Manages and prioritizes the SVP/CFOs calendar to align time with key priorities and organizational needs.
Prepares briefing materials meeting agendas and follow-ups to support leadership effectiveness.
Strategic Support
Supports strategic planning efforts by gathering data conducting analysis and preparing materials.
Contributes to the development of business cases and long-term initiatives.
Builds knowledge of organizational strategy and priorities over time.
Qualifications
Qualifications:
A bachelors degree in finance business accounting or a related field is required; an MBA is strongly preferred
Relevant certifications (e.g. CPA CFA) preferred
Minimum 5 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education training and experience required
Demonstrated ability to think strategically while executing operationally
Proven ability to operate in a fast-paced high-trust environment with shifting priorities
Strong organizational and execution skills with exceptional attention to detail
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
High level of professionalism discretion and interpersonal effectiveness
Key Attributes for Success:
Execution-Oriented Demonstrates strong follow-through and accountability in achieving results
Resilient & Resourceful Navigates ambiguity solves problems independently and remains steady under pressure in a dynamic evolving environment
Flexible & Adaptable Effectively shifts between strategic and operational responsibilities and responds to changing priorities across the system
Collaborative & Trusted Partner Builds strong credible relationships with senior leaders and stakeholders across the UT System and beyond
Proactive & Anticipatory Anticipates needs and takes initiative to address priorities in advance
Highly Organized Brings structure and clarity to complex multi-faceted work
Required Experience:
Manager
About Company
The University of Tennessee System serves all 95 counties and improves lives statewide through the work of five campuses and two institutes.