Director of Finance (CICS)

Title: Director of Finance (CICS) Executive Area: Academic Affairs College/School/MBU: College of Information & Computer Sciences Department: Computer Science Work Location: Amherst Schedule: Full Time Work Arrangement: Hybrid Job Summary The Director of Finance leads the daily financial management, planning, and related data analysis activities for the Manning College of Information and Computer Sciences (CICS). The Director is directly responsible for the financial management of the College's $30 million operating budget and overall budget of $50 million spanning multiple fund types, including the annual operating budget, fiscal policies and procedures, efficiency and effectiveness of systems, long‑term forecasting, and fiscal compliance and control. The position also gathers, analyzes, and interprets financial data necessary for the assessment and continuous process improvement for all academic and operational areas within the College. The Director of Finance acts as an advisor and partner to the Dean and Associate Dean on all matters related to strategic and long‑range financial planning for the College. Essential Functions Instrumental in setting and executing the overall financial management for CICS, leading the finance team to provide financial management direction to the operations of the College and working with a broad constituency of faculty, administrators, and staff to support a diverse operation in a professional and time‑sensitive environment. Serves as a strategic business partner to the Associate Dean of Finance and Administration and senior College leadership, playing a critical role in shaping and impacting the operational efficiencies, processes, and strategies in the continued growth and success of CICS. Gathers, analyzes, and interprets financial data necessary for assessment and continuous process improvement for all academic and operational areas within the College; receives data project requests from the Dean, Associate Deans, Chair, and Staff Directors and prioritizes them based on urgency and impact; provides suggestions on data sources and methods of manipulation and directs the analysis of data. Works collaboratively with university offices—including the Provost’s Office, Research and Engagement, and Administration & Finance (Budget Office, Controller’s Office, Internal Audit, etc.)—to ensure that the College operates efficiently and effectively and is compliant with all appropriate practices, policies, and laws governing the University. Researches and applies new tools and practices to improve data collection, reporting, and data generation for College‑wide initiatives and overall financial operations. Other Functions Performs related duties as assigned or required to meet College, Executive Area/Division, and University goals and objectives. Understands responsibilities with respect to Uniform Guidance for Federal Awards, Title IX, Clery, and other compliance requirements. Works creatively, collaboratively, and effectively to promote teamwork, diversity, equality, and inclusiveness, taking initiative, being creative, and operating with self‑direction. Works in partnership with colleagues within the CICS community and across the campus to support the Dean’s strategic priorities. Contributes toward creating a positive and respectful workplace defined by personal and professional competence, integrity, and collaboration. Understands and contributes to the implementation of College and institutional goals for achieving non‑discrimination and creating a respectful, inclusive environment that is supportive of diversity. Uses access to sensitive and/or not yet public university‑related information only in the performance of the responsibilities of the position and exercises care to prevent unnecessary disclosure to others. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree with five (5) years of relevant financial experience; a Master’s Degree or higher in Business, Accounting, or a related field may substitute for two (2) years of the required experience. Strong collaborative and communication skills; ability to work effectively as part of a diverse and dynamic team in a fast‑paced environment. Strong analytical skills and the ability to think strategically. Highly self‑motivated and self‑managed, able to manage multiple projects or priorities simultaneously and work under strict time and production deadlines while producing quality deliverables. Willingness to take on a variety of projects related to the successful operation and administration of the College, with the ability to adapt and work effectively as the College or programs grow and change, and to work effectively under pressure. Ability to think through problems, organize and seek out information, identify key factors and underlying causes, and generate solutions or resolve discrepancies. Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to interact effectively and work productively in establishing and maintaining harmonious working relationships with a diverse population of faculty, staff, students, and external constituents. Ability to read, understand, apply, and explain rules, regulations, and policies or procedures. Commitment to thorough and positive customer service. Strong computer skills, including intermediate or greater proficiency with spreadsheets—Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets; databases such as FileMaker or Microsoft Access; presentation software such as Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides; and email. Preferred Qualifications Master of Business Administration, MS Finance, or MS Business Analytics. CPA or CMA certification. Experience in assessing, developing, and re‑engineering processes. Demonstrable and successful management and fiscal oversight experience, including planning, budgeting, reporting, and development of financial and operational metrics to align organizational strategy with business operations. Working knowledge of technologies and tools surrounding operational management—including budgeting, forecasting, reporting tools, and analytical software. Additional Details Reports to the Associate Dean of Finance and Administration. Working Conditions Work is performed in a standard office or indoor university environment and involves minimal physical exertion. Work Schedule and Work Arrangement Typical office hours are between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. The position offers a hybrid work schedule, allowing regular work at a location other than the campus workspace for a portion of the week. As this position falls within the Professional Staff Union, it is subject to the terms and conditions of the Professional Staff Union collective bargaining agreement. Salary Information Pay Grade: PSSAP Grade 28 #J-18808-Ljbffr