The Associate Financial Analyst, Financial Planning & Analysis, is part of Finance at Vanderbilt University and provides support within the financial planning and analysis function. This position assists with basic elements of the budgeting, forecasting, and capital plan processes for the university, helps gather university peer financial data, and supports the development of key university materials. Reporting directly to the Director of Financial Planning & Analysis, the Associate Financial Analyst will work closely with team members to learn financial processes while supporting accurate data collection and reporting.
The Associate Financial Analyst position requires foundational analytical skills, eagerness to learn, and intellectual curiosity. This position will help compile and organize data to support key university areas under supervision. The successful candidate must possess solid analytical, organizational, and interpersonal skills while demonstrating a willingness to grow professionally.
This position will begin to develop relationships across the institution while learning about university operations and priorities. The ideal candidate will provide administrative and analytical support to the FP&A team while developing professional skills. The role requires attention to detail, discretion with sensitive information, and a learning mindset.
About the Work Unit:
Financial Planning & Analysis & Treasury, led by the Assistant Vice Chancellor, has fiscal responsibility for university-wide capital planning and budgeting and forecasting and serves as the stewards of the
university’s working capital assets and debt. The FP&A team has primary focus on annual operating budgets, quarterly financial forecasting, strategic financial modeling, and ad hoc financial projects. Treasury manages the non-endowment banking relationships on behalf of the university, oversees the university’s internal university and capital bank, and manages the university’s external debt portfolio.
Key Functions and Expected Performance:- Support the Financial Planning & Analysis team in gathering data for the university's annual operating budget, five-year capital plan, and quarterly forecasts. Assist with organizing information and maintaining documentation as needed.
- Help collect and consolidate central rates for PBCS during the annual budget effort, working closely with the Senior Financial Analyst.
- Assist with updates to the university Fact Book by gathering data and formatting information under supervision.
- Support team members with university initiatives by providing research and data compilation assistance.
- Help gather peer institution financial data, including operating results and tuition/fee information.
- Assist with managing PBCS user access and maintain basic user records.
- Support the consolidation of area variance descriptions for the Quarterly Financial Report by gathering information and assisting with formatting.
- Begin to build relationships with stakeholders while learning about university operations.
- Provide backup support for basic elements of the daily cash process when needed.
- Contribute to problem-solving efforts by gathering relevant information and assisting with analysis.
- Learn to develop basic financial models and reports under supervision.
- Gain understanding of strategic financial plans and institutional planning processes.
- Communicate effectively with team members and develop awareness of business partner needs.
- Contribute to a collaborative and supportive team environment.
- Learn and apply financial planning concepts and best practices.
- Develop proficiency with spreadsheet, database, and presentation software applications.
Supervisory Relationships:
This position does not have supervisory responsibilities; this position reports administratively and functionally to the Director of Financial Planning & Analysis.
Education and Certifications:
- Bachelor’s degree, or an equivalent combination of education, relevant military experience, and relevant skills, is required.
- MBA or related Master’s degree is preferred.
Experience and Skills:
- 0-2 years of experience is required.
- Experience with basic financial analysis and data management.
- Familiarity with financial concepts and willingness to learn GAAP and accounting systems.
- Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and develop professional relationships.
- Enthusiasm for learning and problem-solving.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks with guidance.
Key Characteristics of a Successful Team Member in this Work Unit:
- Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills – collaboration, partnership and change management skills.
- Sophisticated mental agility and the ability to work and/or manage up in a fast-paced, fluid environment.
- Humility and collegiality in the face of adversity and challenge.
- Strong written and oral communications skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with staff, peers, and other university and outside contacts.
At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.
Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.
