Senior Manager Operating Budgets Commuter Rails

This position is eligible for teleworking, which is currently one day per week. New hires are eligible to apply 30 days after their effective hire date.

Opening:

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is North America's largest transportation network, serving a population of 15.3 million people across a 5,000-square-mile travel area surrounding New York City, Long Island, southeastern New York State, and Connecticut. The MTA network comprises the nation’s largest bus fleet and more subway and commuter rail cars than all other U.S. transit systems combined. MTA strives to provide a safe and reliable commute, excellent customer service, and rewarding opportunities.

Position Objective:

This position is responsible for all aspects of financial management for various departments within the agency. This includes the preparation of agency budget and multi-year Financial Plan along with monthly variance analysis for both payroll and non-payroll expenses. This position will work closely with departments to ensure that the operating budget meets the operational requirements of the department. This effort includes the review and validation of comprehensive forecasts that incorporate current year expenditure trends, updates to various operating plans, assessments of capital project and management impacts on operating expenses, and other adjustments developed through ongoing cost review and analysis. In-depth understanding of department operational requirements is essential to perform the tasks of the position. Efforts include analysis of headcount to assure the budgeted department headcount meets operational requirements, cost-sharing agreements, budget reduction monitoring/analysis, inventory and material monitoring, overtime reporting, employee availability, non-payroll contract tracking, etc. The position may also be responsible for agency-wide reporting related to headcount, material/inventory usage, overtime, employee availability, etc.

Responsibilities:

• Direct the development of the Financial Plan for various departments within the agency. This requires a review and understanding of new need requests from each department and ensures that resources are closely aligned to operational needs. The individual will need a solid understanding of operational needs and will be able to make recommendations to Senior Management regarding the priority level of specific initiatives. The Financial Plan is prepared two to three times a year and requires significant effort under tight deadlines. The planning process for future Financial Plans is ongoing.
• Review monthly variance expense analysis for each department and provide summary level explanations to Senior Management. This information will also be used for preparation of the Committee Book that is distributed to the MTA Board.
• Provide direction and oversight to staff in completing the monthly, quarterly, and year-end analysis of operating department expenses and other related budget analysis that guide Senior Management in reviewing fiscal accountability at all levels and in alternative uses of available resources. Analyze cost control and cost reduction initiatives to achieve budget balance. Will perform the function and responsibilities of the Assistant Deputy Director – Commuter Rails (Level 4 group lead) in the Level 4’s absence.
• Direct and oversee required agency-wide reports such as headcount, overtime, material/inventory usage, employee availability, cash, etc.
• Manage a staff, including motivation and career development for subordinates. Create a safe, productive environment that respects individual differences and enables employees to develop and contribute to their full potential. Select, develop, and motivate others.
• Performs other duties as assigned
• Complies with all policies and standards
• May be required to work hours outside regular work hours, as applicable
• Observes the work performed by contractors, as applicable
• Reviews invoices and approves them if the work has contractual standards, as applicable
• Addresses performance issues with the contractor when possible, as applicable
• Escalates issues to other parties when needed, as applicable

Required Qualifications:

Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Professional, related, recent experience in positions with increased responsibility within budget/accounting/cost control.
• Knowledge of general accounting and financial reporting.
• Personal PC computer experience (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Effective business writing skills (ability to focus on audience information needs, be concise and direct in language) and effective verbal communication skills (ability to interface with all levels of management).
• Ability to ascertain critical operational and functional issues and prioritize analysis accordingly.
• Ability to seek out, sort and compile data into useful information formats.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to influence other departments’ commitment to providing timely and accurate data and updates.
• Knowledge of PeopleSoft and/or Hyperion Financial Management System.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS)in Accounting, Business, or Finance.
• Minimum 7 yearsof financial analyses and/or budget development.
• Minimum 3 yearsof supervisory experience managing a function and/or staff.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Master’s degree in Arts/Sciences (MA/MS)in Business or related field

Other Information

Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial

Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).

Equal Employment Opportunity

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including those concerning veteran status and individuals with disabilities.

The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.