Manager, Financial Operations

Description:

University Food Services (UNFS), a unit within the Student Services portfolio and the Division of Student Affairs, is a self-operated, campus food program that includes retail dining, residential dining, and Degrees Catering services. As an ancillary, UNFS is accountable for the prudent management of key University resources that include an independent $32 million annual operating budget ($16M in revenues and $16M in expenses).

Reporting directly to the Director, Food Services, the Manager plays a key role in supporting the Director and UNFS Management team in delivering quality products and services at a competitive value while achieving business plan targets that are closely connected to the longer-term stability and renewal of the unit's resources. The Manager is responsible for the day to day delivery and operational oversight of all UNFS financial controls, inclusive of accounting and payroll practices, as well as the integration of best-practices specific to the unit's needs. The Manager is expected to liaise with and respond to the Student Services Manager, Budget and Business Analysis' direction around broader financial initiatives to meet the needs of Student Services. When required, actively participate in divisional or institutional process improvements through financial analysis, reporting and operational process reviews specific to UNFS.

The Manager provides reports on financial metrics and control practices within the unit, and propose ideas that would lead to key decisions, such as cost-savings, revenue generation, operational efficiencies, etc., and progresses the financial integrity and business practices of Food Services. In addition to the various financial responsibilities, the Manager provides support and advice for a number of administrative tasks/projects/services including the implementation of enterprise technology solutions, related human resource practices (e.g.; vacation/CTO management), the oversight of the relationship with OneCard operations and special departmental projects. The Manager takes an active role in supporting operations Managers' financial practices, use of reporting tools, and ensuring alignment with overall financial practices/policies/procedures required institutionally, and provides training and support as required.

The Manager builds effective relationships with both departmental leaders and key campus partners (e.g.; Student Services, Financial Services, and Purchasing Services). The Manager communicates with colleagues within UNFS who range in skill, experience, and have various levels accountability associated with departmental financial management and business planning. The Manager provides financial and administrative expertise, advice, and support to the UNFS leadership team and appreciates the overall role of UNFS by contributing to the student experience and campus community at the University of Victoria.

Job Requirements

This position requires an undergraduate degree in business or commerce. A professional accounting designation (e.g., CPA, CMA, CA, or CGA) would be considered an asset.

5 years’ experience which must include:

• 5 years’ experience in a related role in a business environment that requires outstanding research and analytical skills in financial and business processes.
• 5 years’ financial management experience including AR, AP, payroll, purchasing and administrative functions.
• Experience in preparing financial and other reports for management decision making.

An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.

Additional Requirements:

a) Excellent computer skills including spreadsheets (a master of Microsoft Excel), database, web, and office software. Experience with Banner, Blackboard and NCR systems a major asset.

b) Excellent oral and written skills, strong organizational skills, and experience in supervising staff.

c) Superior interpersonal skills, including proven ability to collaborate with a wide variety of individuals and departments.

d) Creative problem solver demonstrated experience leading change. Experience in higher education and/or Food Services environment an asset.

e) Related professional experiences in higher education are a major asset.