Provide key financial analysis, advice and recommendations aligned to support the strategic focus of the Faculty, including but not limited to budget analysis, financial analysis, preparation of financial reports and statements, and historic spending analysis.
Identify opportunities to improve existing processes and procedures, and participate in the development of new processes and guidelines in support of the Faculty or University's objectives.
Verify and ensure that all operations are undertaken in an effective and efficient manner, and in compliance with University and external regulations (journals, budget transfers, position budget maintenance, etc.). Approve transactions when required. Ensure these function are aligned to support the strategic focus of Departments and the Faculty.
Advise and work closely with the Dean, Director of Administration and Departmental Chairs/unit heads to forecast multi-year spending plans, develop departmental budgets and ensure spending is on target. Perform regular variance analysis.
Participate in the budget development exercise and ensure proper financial maintenance of all funds in the Faculty. Assist in the Faculty’s yearly forecasting exercise in consultation with the Budget Office.
Provide high-level support in balancing the Faculty’s as well as Departmental/unit Operating budgets. Provide financial advice and budget planning support to administrative staff members at the Faculty and Departmental/unit level.
Track and monitor endowments, direct spendable donation funds and various other funding envelopes, and ensure proper spending practices.
Organize and provide training and assistance to Departments on budget, financial affairs, and policy issues with respect to financial systems and related academic procedures.
Undertake special projects and initiatives as required. May be asked to assist in identifying revenue-generating opportunities, prepare budgets, business plans and offer recommendations to Faculty leadership.
Liaises with staff members within and external to the Faculty to address questions and resolve issues.
Extensive knowledge of accounting and financial management principles.
Ability to administer funds and prepare detailed budgets.
Knowledge of McGill (or other University) fund types and experience working with research grants and other restricted funds.
Ability to effectively communicate and interact with various levels of staff as well as academics.
Excellent customer service skills with an ability to establish productive working relationships.
Ability to train and coach support staff with a view to accomplishing joint initiatives.
Demonstrated ability to take initiative with a high degree of flexibility in managing multiple assignments.
Experience in preparing comprehensive financial statements, preparing reports for auditors, working with complex formulas, and preparing detailed professional reports.
Advanced proficiency in a computerized environment, in particular applications such as spreadsheets, databases, word processing software, Banner FIS, Crystal reports and Workday.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Proven organizational skills, ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines.
Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team.
Proven success in facilitating and maintaining strong, consistent, and positive communications with a diverse audience. Strong written and verbal communication skills in both French and English.