Finance & Budget Director

Howard University; Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & Wellness

Work-Life Balance

Financial Wellness

Professional Development

Wellness programs

Job summary

Howard University is seeking a Budget Director for the School of Law to lead the annual operating budget process, analyzing costs and presenting findings to stakeholders. The role requires strong proficiency with Workday and/or Adaptive, budgeting best practices, and collaboration with department heads to drive cost efficiency.

This on-site position offers growth, competitive compensation, and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field is required.
• Minimum of 3 years budgeting/financial analysis experience, preferably in higher education.
• Proficiency with Workday and/or Adaptive; strong financial reporting and data analysis skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist in creation, preparation, and presentation of the annual operating budget for the School of Law.
• Conduct comparative analyses of program costs and identify variances for cost efficiency.
• Prepare and present regular financial reports including budget vs. actual analysis.
• Analyze program costs and provide data-driven recommendations for cost savings and efficiency improvements.
• Utilize Workday and/or Adaptive to maintain budget data and generate reports.
• Collaborate with department heads and senior leadership to meet budget goals and present findings clearly.
• Ensure budgeting activities comply with university policies and maintain proper documentation.

Skills

Analytical Thinking

Attention to Detail

Communication & Presentation

Technical Proficiency

Collaboration & Teamwork

Time Management & Organization

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field

Tools

Workday

Adaptive

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff \"for fit\" makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here Is What We Offer

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

Job Purpose

The Budget Director at Howard University School of Law is responsible for supporting the preparation, analysis, and presentation of the annual operating budget. This individual will play a key role in analyzing costs across various programs, providing recommendations for cost management, and ensuring alignment with institutional goals. The ideal candidate will have strong proficiency in financial software such as Workday and/or Adaptive, as well as a deep understanding of budgeting principles and practices.

Supervisory Authority

This position may supervise student employees

Nature And Scope

Internal contacts include administrators, faculty, staff, and students in the School of Law and other University departments. External contacts include a myriad of law-affiliated institutions, organizations, alumni, sponsor representatives, visitors, and the general public.

Principal Accountabilities

Budget Development & Presentation:

Assist in the creation, preparation, and presentation of the annual operating budget for the School of Law. Collaborate with department heads and stakeholders to gather data, analyze trends, and ensure all budget projections are accurate and aligned with institutional priorities.

Comparative Cost Analysis

Conduct thorough comparative analyses of program costs, identifying variances and providing insights on cost efficiency. Prepare reports that evaluate the financial performance of various programs, highlighting areas for improvement or potential savings.

Financial Reporting & Performance Tracking

Prepare and present regular financial reports, including budget vs. actual analysis. Monitor departmental expenditures and ensure that the Law School stays within its allocated budget. Provide insights into budgetary deviations and recommend corrective actions when necessary.

Program Evaluation & Financial Recommendations

Analyze program costs and effectiveness, providing data-driven recommendations for cost savings and efficiency improvements. Assist departments in making informed decisions based on financial data and forecasts.

Software & Financial Tools Management

Utilize financial management software (such as Workday and/or Adaptive) to maintain up-to-date budget data, prepare financial reports, and perform cost analysis. Ensure data accuracy and compliance with university standards.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

Work closely with various departments and senior leadership to ensure budget goals are met. Present financial findings and insights to non-financial stakeholders in a clear, actionable manner.

Policy Compliance & Documentation

Ensure that all budgeting activities adhere to university policies, financial regulations, and best practices. Maintain proper documentation for all financial transactions and ensure that all budgets and reports are prepared in accordance with established protocols.

Core Competencies

• Analytical Thinking: Strong ability to analyze financial data, identify trends, and provide actionable recommendations based on cost analysis and performance tracking.
• Attention to Detail: Ability to maintain a high level of accuracy in financial data entry, reporting, and analysis.
• Communication & Presentation: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial information in a clear and understandable way to non-financial stakeholders.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in financial management software such as Workday and/or Adaptive, and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint). Experience with financial forecasting and reporting tools is highly desirable.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Ability to work effectively with various departments, stakeholders, and senior leadership. A team player who fosters a cooperative working environment.
• Time Management & Organization: Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Minimum Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field.
• Experience: A minimum of 3 years of experience in budgeting, financial analysis, or related fields. Experience in a higher education environment is preferred.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in financial software such as Workday and/or Adaptive. Familiarity with budgeting systems, financial reporting, and analysis tools.
• Knowledge & Skills: Strong understanding of budgeting principles, financial analysis, and cost management techniques. Ability to interpret and present financial data to various audiences.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to prepare clear, concise, and accurate financial reports.
• Organizational Skills: Strong attention to detail, ability to prioritize tasks, and manage competing deadlines effectively.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

$80,000-$90,000