A Financial Planning Manager manages the planning of financial activities for a company or organization. Leads the budgeting process, prepares financial statements and business activity and forecasting reports; supervises accounting and preparation of financial reports; advises management with regard to finance decisions.
The position serves as a strategic financial partner to academic and administrative leaders. The Manager leads budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis, position control, and long-term financial planning for assigned colleges and departments. The Manager develops financial models, forecasts, and business analyses to support resource allocation, enhance operational efficiency, and enable data-informed decision-making in support of the University's mission and strategic priorities.
Location :
This position will be based out of our Waterfront Plaza offices in downtown Honolulu.
Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance or equivalent work experience. Minimum 3 years of experience in accounting, budgeting, or financial analysis. Proficiency in MS Office .
Desired Qualifications:
Master's degree in Business Administration or a related field preferred. Experience in a university setting and with ERP and budgeting software preferred.
Other Qualifications:
Must be able to fulfill work obligations that support the department, which may require working extended hours , if necessary. Must meet training and background check requirements and comply with the Protection of Minors Policy. Must be able to work effectively in an environment that requires excellent time management and stress management skills . Self-motivated and confident professional with a strong work ethic; attention to detail and accuracy; exceptional organizational and interpersonal skills; sound judgment; strong problem-solving and analytical abilities; and the ability to communicate effectively and persuasively, both orally and in writing. Team player capable of working effectively and efficiently within a collaborative environment and with senior leadership. Must be able to work with personnel possessing varying levels of budgeting and accounting knowledge and experience. Ability to handle highly sensitive and confidential information with professionalism and discretion.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Budgeting and Forecasting (40%): Leads the development and administration of the University's annual operating budget and regular forecast updates for assigned colleges and administrative units. Develops and maintains financial models, forecasts, and key performance indicators to support strategic planning, resource allocation, and decision-making. Collaborates with Deans, program directors, and other stakeholders to develop enrollment, revenue, and expense projections for academic programs. Develops financial pro forma for new academic programs, initiatives, and organizational changes. Maintains the net tuition model to facilitate forward looking projections . 2. Financial Analysis and Reporting (30%): Researches , analyzes, and explains variances from budget, forecast, and prior-year results, providing actionable recommendations to leadership. Reviews monthly financial activity and coordinates with the Business Office to resolve accounting issues and process appropriate correcting or reclassifying entries. Conducts regular financial reviews of academic programs to evaluate financial health of each program. Performs financial analyses to identify trends, opportunities, risks, and emerging financial issues. Prepares and presents financial analyses, reports, and recommendations to support informed decision-making by University leadership. 3. Financial Business Partnership and Process Improvement (10%): Partners with departments across the University to promote accountability and facilitate the timely execution of strategic initiatives. Provides training and support to departmental managers on budgeting processes, financial systems, and expense coding procedures. Promotes effective stewardship of University resources through financial guidance, consultation, and continuous process improvement. Leads or supports the implementation and enhancement of budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and financial planning systems, processes, and capabilities. 4. Personnel Position Control (15%): Maintains the University's position control system, including updating and validating position data in budgeting and workforce planning systems. Reviews and approves personnel actions within HR and position management systems to ensure alignment with approved staffing plans and budget availability. Monitors personnel budgets, position changes, vacancies, and hiring activity to ensure departments operate within approved budget allocations. 5. Performs other related duties as assigned (5%): Actively participates as an effective member of team by completing assigned duties, accepting additional assignments or reassignments . Assists with seasonal peaks. This description is not designed to list all activities, duties or responsibilities which may be required for this job. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may be assigned at any time.
