Financial Analyst

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University of the Cumberlands is seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Financial Analyst to join the Finance Office. This role provides essential support for financial reporting budgeting and accounting functions with a particular focus on improving reporting processes supporting campus departments and assisting with restricted fund monitoring.

The role supports the use of data analytics and emerging AI tools to enhance financial reporting forecasting and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate combines strong accounting and analytical skills with an interest in applying data and technology within a mission-driven private higher education environment.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Analysis

• Prepare quarterly and annual financial reports including supporting schedules and reconciliations
• Oversee that regulatory and institutional reporting requirements are met
• Perform variance analysis and ensure accuracy and completeness of financial data
• Maintain financial models reports and dashboards to support decision-making
• Support accounting and financial reporting processes including journal entry review account reconciliations and variance analysis

Budget Support

• Serve as a first point of contact for routine budget inquiries from academic and administrative departments
• Administer budget-to-actual analysis and help departments understand variances and spending guidelines
• Prepare maintain and monitor annual operating budgets and quarterly reports for Operating and Restricted Accounts

Accounting & Compliance

• Handle account reconciliations transaction reviews and month-end/year-end close processes
• Perform accounting and financial reporting processes including journal entry review account reconciliations and variance analysis
• Support audits compliance reviews and regulatory reporting ensuring proper documentation and adherence to accounting standards

Restricted Funds & Reporting

• Track and monitor departmental restricted funds
• Support preparation of departmental restricted fund reports
• Contribute to improving processes for restricted account tracking and reporting

Data & Process Improvement

• Utilize tools such as Excel Power BI or similar platforms to enhance reporting and data visualization
• Support the use of AI and data analytics tools (e.g. automation anomaly detection predictive insights) to improve efficiency and accuracy
• Help document and standardize recurring financial processes to strengthen internal controls

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelors degree in Finance Accounting Economics Business Administration or related field
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (formulas pivot tables basic modeling)
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-financial audiences

Preferred:

• Internship or academic experience in financial analysis accounting or higher education finance
• Experience with data visualization tools (Power BI Tableau etc.)
• Basic knowledge of data analytics automation or AI tools (e.g. Python SQL or similar)

Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of both financial analysis and accounting fundamentals
• Curiosity and willingness to apply AI and emerging technologies in financial processes
• Analytical thinking with a data-driven mindset
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• High level of integrity and ability to handle confidential information
• Willingness to learn and adapt in a mission-driven academic environment

Work Environment

This position operates in a professional office environment within a private higher education institution. Responsibilities may require extended hours during peak periods such as budget development audits and fiscal year-end. The role involves collaboration across departments and engagement with financial accounting and data systems that support institutional operations and compliance.

Cumberlands is different by design. Our employees exemplify our motto in the pursuit of a

life-more-abundant.