Associate Vice President for Planning and Budget

Job Description

Summary and Scope of Position:

The Associate Vice President for Planning and Budget (AVP) is a key leader within the Ursinus College Finance and Administration division, responsible for providing strategic leadership and oversight of the College’s budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation processes. This position plays a critical role in aligning financial resources with the College’s strategic priorities, while also overseeing the finance department’s day-to-day operations. The AVP ensures that budgeting and financial planning are integrated and aligned with institutional goals to support long-term sustainability.

Specific Responsibilities:

Budgeting and Financial Planning:

• Lead the development and management of the College’s annual operating and capital budgets.
• Provide strategic direction in developing multi-year financial models and forecasts to inform decision-making.
• Collaborate with campus leadership, department heads, and faculty to ensure that financial resources are allocated effectively to support institutional priorities.
• Monitor budget performance throughout the fiscal year, analyzing variances and providing recommendations to senior leadership.
• Prepare and present comprehensive financial reports to senior leadership, the Board of Trustees, and various campus stakeholders.

Strategic Planning and Resource Allocation:

• Work closely with the VPFA and other senior leaders to ensure financial planning aligns with the College’s strategic plan and long-term goals.
• Develop strategies to optimize resource allocation across campus departments, supporting initiatives that enhance the academic mission and improve institutional efficiency.
• Lead financial analysis of new programs, capital projects, and initiatives, providing financial insights to support decision-making.

Oversee Finance Department:

• Provide leadership and oversight for the finance department, including accounting, payroll, accounts payable/receivable, and financial reporting.
• Ensure the integrity of financial records and compliance with all applicable regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Oversee the annual audit process and coordinate the preparation of required financial statements.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, professional development, and accountability within the finance department.

Institutional Collaboration and Leadership:

• Serve as a strategic advisor to the VPFA and other senior leaders, contributing to institutional planning and policy development.
• Lead and participate in various college committees, including those related to finance, budget, planning, and facilities.
• Work closely with academic and administrative departments to provide guidance on financial policies, procedures, and budget management.

Data-Driven Decision Making:

• Develop and utilize data analytics and financial models to inform decisions and improve financial management across the institution.
• Lead efforts to enhance financial transparency and reporting across the College, ensuring stakeholders have access to clear and actionable financial data.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in finance, business administration, accounting, or a related field (CPA preferred).
• A minimum of 7-10 years of progressively responsible experience in financial planning, budgeting, and administration, preferably in higher education.
• Demonstrated experience leading a finance department, including accounting and financial reporting.
• Proven ability to develop and manage multi-year financial models and budgets in alignment with strategic goals.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across campus constituencies.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize complex financial data and present clear recommendations to senior leadership.
• Knowledge of financial regulations, GAAP, and relevant higher education financial policies.

Key Competencies:

• Strategic thinking and the ability to align financial resources with institutional goals.
• Strong leadership and management skills with experience leading teams and cross-functional projects.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with stakeholders at all levels.
• Commitment to fostering a culture of accountability, transparency, and professional development within the finance department.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, mission-driven higher education environment.

Other Duties:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the individual(s) assigned to this position. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

Job responsibilities and activities may be modified or changed at any time with or without notice. Job descriptions will be audited periodically by the Ursinus Human Resources department to ensure they are up-to-date and reflect the essential responsibilities and duties of the job.

Ursinus AA/EO Statement:

Ursinus is an AA/EO employer. Ursinus College does not discriminate on grounds of race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, creed, ancestry, veteran status, marital status, disability, or other classification protected by applicable law in the administration of any of its educational programs or activities or with respect to employment.

About Us

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Ursinus College is a selective, independent, co-educational, residential liberal arts college of approximately 1500 students located about 25 miles northwest of center city Philadelphia. With a diverse community of students, it is an expectation of all faculty to contribute to the inclusion, engagement, and success of all students. Ursinus is an EO/AA employer. Ursinus College does not discriminate on grounds of race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, creed, ancestry, veteran status, marital status, disability, or other classification protected by applicable law in the administration of any of its educational programs or activities or with respect to employment.