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Northwestern University

Assistant Director of Business & Finance

Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, us, 60208


Department:

Medill - AdministrationSalary/Grade:

EXS/8Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications is a leader in education and research. As the media industry experiences unprecedented change, Medill is at the forefront of innovation. Our expert teaching and thought leadership focus on enduring skills and values as well as new techniques and technologies that are changing the way stories are told and consumed in today's digital world. In recently celebrating our 100th year in 2021, our experience in leading the fields of journalism and IMC is unparalleled.Medill offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in journalism, and an undergraduate certificate and graduate degree in integrated marketing communications. The Medill community is tight-knit and supportive. It consists of 100 faculty, 60 staff, 1,200 students and 18,000 alumni. The diversity of the Medill community has been a source of innovation, excellence and leadership throughout our history. Today Medill continues its commitment to creating an inclusive environment and to providing equity in opportunities regarding research, teaching, administration and student services. We aim to welcome students, staff and faculty from diverse backgrounds and support them so they may thrive at Medill.Job Summary:The Assistant Director of Business & Finance manages the day-to-day financial operations of the Medill School at Northwestern University. This position coordinates with central offices including HR, Budget, Financial Aid, Facilities, Purchasing, IT, Research Provost, etc. The Assistant Director provides financial models and analyses for the school leadership and its partnering central offices. This position assists with the quarterly and annual budgeting and forecasting processes. The Assistant Director supervises a team of two staff members and works closely with the Executive Director to oversee the workflow and structure of the Business & Finance Office.This position will be on-site on the Evanston campus for a minimum of two days per week, while the remaining time is allowed to be worked remotely. This remote working arrangement will be evaluated on a regular basis and may be changed based on business and operational needs.Specific Responsibilities:Budget Planning:Assist with reconciliation of annual management budget provided by Budget Office to prior year's allocation, including detailed summary of change to Central appropriation.Review entry of annual budget into NUPlans Contributor budget system, confirming entry aligns with management budget.Complete thorough review of approximately half of department/program budget reports monthly, communicating concerns to Executive Director (ED) as they arise.Complete tasks assigned by ED for quarterly all funds and tuition revenue-sharing forecasts due to the Budget Office meeting deadlines set by ED.Manage the day-to-day operations of the annual fiscal year-end budget close process.Financial Management / Administration:Ensure that appropriate financial controls and processes in place across School are followed.Responsible for certifying that spending is appropriate and in alignment with plans and within approved budgets across School.Assist with development and updates of financial reports.Review approximately half of School's chart strings monthly.Advise faculty and staff throughout School on financial policies and procedures as necessary.Oversee faculty research funding plans to ensure resources are allocated according to Dean's direction.Transactions / Operations:Oversee accurate, efficient and compliant workflow of all transactional processes across areas/units.Serve as primary Level 3 school approver for NUFinancials transactions.Provide optimal customer service and financial guidance to areas/units.Grants Administration:Provide post award management.Help guide pre-award budget inquiries.Training:Develop internal financial training for faculty and staff as necessary.Supervision:Direct supervision of two employees, a Financial Coordinator and a Senior Accounting Specialist.Minimum Qualifications:Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in a major such as accounting, business administration, finance, or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.5 years financial, budgeting &/or preparing account reconciliations or financial statements along with financial analysis or other relevant experience.Minimum Competencies:Excellent computer skills including proficiency in the use of spreadsheet, database and word processing software.Strong understanding of financial reporting.Preferred Qualifications:Prior experience in a financial administration role.Prior experience working in higher education.Benefits:At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more!Work-Life and Wellness:Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.Professional Growth & Development:Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home.

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