Description:
This position is expected to deal with shifting priorities and operate in a highly complex environment with multiple and competing deadlines. Individuals must be able to act independently and solve complex business issues while demonstrating flexibility and strong financial analysis skills. This position is required to manage own delivery of work as well as the service delivery of the team. The duties carried out within this position require the understanding and proper application of accounting principles as they relate to the recording of financial activities. The Financial Analyst will review and analyze documentation to ensure proper classification of projects. Accuracy is paramount as there is a high impact of errors as inaccurate advice or information could have serious consequences to customers and/or the reputation of the University. Professional judgment in reviewing own work and the work of team members is required. This key position coordinates the delivery of Project Maintenance support to various stakeholders, while adhering to and promoting strong internal control and best practices.
Position Description
Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):
- Has extensive knowledge and expertise in University financial systems, reporting, and administration. The role is complex due to the technical financial concepts, understanding of agency policy and guidelines, and high analytical nature of work.
- Reviews systems, operations and evaluates policies, procedures and is involved with management to formulate and recommend changes regarding data capture, information systems and reporting.
- Strong communication skills and customer service ethic is required, as a great deal of time is spent providing advice and interpretation of policies and procedures as they relate to projects.
- Provide financial reporting services to ensure insight and assistance with maintaining the accurate and timely financial reporting records within the Project Costing module of PeopleSoft Financials and COGNOS finance marts.
- Provide advice, interpretation and guidance to the University financial community to ensure all financial records are updated in compliance with appropriate accounting policies and procedures.
- Provide explanation of documents, provide information and support as required by management and various auditors including internal auditors and the auditor general.
- Supports the Project Maintenance team and the financial reporting of the University's sponsored research, endowment income and other restricted funds. Provide strategic decision support for the Project Maintenance team. Coordinate the operational aspects of the masterdata processes within the Project Maintenance team to ensure these processes are effectively communicated to the Research Community.
- Ensure research and non-research projects are accurately classified within the University's financial system with audit trails or supporting documentation for project creation or maintenance.
- Classify new research and non-research initiatives according to internal guidelines and Public Sector Accounting Standards, enabling relevant entity level financial reporting. Assist in developing tools for staff (checklist / procedures) to facilitate efficiency and consistency in the creation and maintenance or projects.
- Remain current on various funding agency guidelines and requirements. Stay current on trends and approaches to process through continued professional development.
- Work in partnership with key client stakeholders, service providers, granting agencies as well as other University of Calgary departments including Information Technology, Human Resources, and operational management to continuously seek to improve processes and procedures within the Project Maintenance team.
- Manage staff deliverables related to creation and maintenance of projects and project monitoring. Provide support and input to Management with planning and directing the operational work of team members. Implement and support change successfully.