At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial planning and analysis for academic units, ensuring alignment with institutional goals.
- Company: Widener University is a vibrant, inclusive institution focused on connecting education to social issues.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible work options, professional development opportunities, and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of education through strategic financial insights.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in finance or related field; 5+ years in financial planning required.
- Other info: Opportunity for hybrid or remote work arrangements available.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Thank you for your interest in working at Widener University.
Widener University is committed to fostering an inclusive community in which faculty, staff, and students from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. You are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
If you need a reasonable accommodation in order to search for a job opening or to submit an application, please contact the Office of Human Resources.
Widener University is committed to fostering an inclusive community in which faculty, staff, and students from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. You are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
If you need a reasonable accommodation in order to search for a job opening or to submit an application, please contact the Office of Human Resources.
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Director of Financial Analysis
Apply now Job no: 493275
Work type: Full-time
Location: Chester
Categories: Administrators
Widener University seeks a dynamic and strategic leader to serve as the inaugural Director of Financial Analysis within the Office of the Provost. This newly created role is responsible for advancing financial planning, data-informed decision-making, and fiscal stewardship across all academic affairs units. Reporting directly to the Provost, the Director will provide high-level financial analysis, budget development, and strategic consultation that aligns institutional resources with academic priorities and long-term goals.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited to) :
Essential duties:
Strategic Budget Planning and Analysis
- Develop and lead annual and multi-year budgeting processes in partnership with the Provost and academic affairs leadership.
- Provide strategic financial guidance to academic units to support operational planning and sustainability.
- Deliver advanced financial modeling and forecasting to evaluate new and existing academic programs, faculty hiring plans, and special initiatives.
Academic Resource and Workforce Planning
- Collaborate with deans and directors to evaluate and recommend staffing changes aligned with institutional goals and budget constraints.
- Coordinate cost-benefit analyses related to faculty and staff recruitment, academic initiatives, and capital investments.
- Oversee the position control process and ensure alignment with organizational and financial priorities.
Data-Informed Program Review and Decision Support
- Partner with Institutional Research and the Provost’s leadership team to lead comprehensive academic program reviews.
- Translate institutional data into decision-ready insights that inform policy, budgeting, and investment in academic affairs.
- Prepare compelling financial reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
Operational Effectiveness and Fiscal Compliance
- Establish, evaluate, and enhance budget processes and internal controls within academic affairs.
- Recommend and implement systems, tools, and practices that increase transparency and operational efficiency.
- Ensure compliance with institutional, state, and federal financial policies and procedures.
Additional Responsibilities
- Represent the Provost’s Office on relevant committees and initiatives.
- Engage in continuous improvement and professional development.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (education/training and experience required) :
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, Economics, or related field.
- At least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in financial planning, analysis, or budgeting.
- Demonstrated experience working in a collaborative, cross-functional environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex financial information for non-financial stakeholders.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including formulas, pivot tables, and modeling.
- Proven ability to manage sensitive information with discretion and integrity.
- Strong organizational skills; able to manage multiple priorities with accuracy and flexibility.
Preferred:
- Master\’s degree in Business Administration (MBA), Finance, Public Administration, or related discipline.
- Experience in higher education or another mission-driven, complex organization.
- Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., Ellucian Colleague, Workday, Banner).
- Experience with data visualization and reporting tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).
- Basic programming knowledge (e.g., SQL, R, Python) to support data analysis is a plus.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND/OR UNUSUAL HOURS:
- Standard office environment; significant use of computer and communication technology.
- High level of interaction with faculty, academic leaders, and administrative partners.
- Ability to move between campus buildings for meetings and consultations.
- Occasional evening or weekend hours required, particularly during budget planning cycles.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Widener University is committed to fostering an inclusive community in which faculty, staff, and students from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive.We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing equal educational and employment opportunities for all persons without regard to age, color, national origin, race, religion, disability, veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or status as a protected veteran.
Some positions may be eligible for a hybrid or remote work arrangement that may include a partially or fully remote work location, consistent with Widener’s Flexible Work policy.
Widener University, an independent, metropolitan, doctoral-intensive university, connects curricula to social issues through civic engagement. Dynamic teaching, active scholarship, personal attention and experiential learning are key components of the Widener Experience. Located in Chester, PA, Widener\’s main campus is nestled between Philadelphia, PA and Wilmington, DE, with Law Schools located in both Harrisburg and Wilmington. For more information about the university, please visit our website at
EOE M/F/V/D
Advertised: 16 Jul 2025 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:
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Director of Financial Analysis employer: Widener University
Contact Detail:
Widener University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Financial Analysis
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the higher education sector, especially those involved in financial planning and analysis. Attend relevant conferences or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about industry trends that could give you an edge.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Widener University's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to inclusivity and academic excellence will help you align your discussions and demonstrate how your experience can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your past financial analysis work, particularly in collaborative environments. Highlight how your strategic insights have positively impacted decision-making processes in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Brush up on your technical skills, especially in Microsoft Excel and any data visualisation tools like Tableau or Power BI. Being able to showcase your proficiency in these areas during discussions can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Financial Analysis
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in financial planning, analysis, and budgeting. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage complex financial data and collaborate with various stakeholders.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and Widener University's commitment to inclusivity. Discuss how your background aligns with their mission and how you can contribute to their academic goals.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and any experience with ERP systems or data visualisation tools. Mention your ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a Director of Financial Analysis.
How to prepare for a job interview at Widener University
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the Director of Financial Analysis. Familiarise yourself with strategic budget planning, data-informed decision-making, and fiscal stewardship, as these will be key discussion points during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in financial planning and analysis. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully managed budgets or provided strategic financial guidance, especially in a collaborative environment.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since the role requires translating complex financial information for non-financial stakeholders, practice explaining your past projects in simple terms. This will demonstrate your communication skills and ability to engage with diverse audiences.
✨Prepare Questions
Have insightful questions ready for your interviewers about the university's financial strategies and goals. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if the role aligns with your career aspirations.