Strategic Finance Director — Hybrid, University Operations

University of California - Merced; Merced (CA); Hybrid; USD 115,000 - 144,000; Full time

Job summary

University of California, Merced seeks a Director to establish objectives and work plans for managing data related to actual results. You will oversee data processing in Oracle ERP, provide comprehensive fiscal management, and guide strategic financial planning to support campus leadership.

The role requires governance of financial reports, close processes, staff leadership, and policy execution to ensure accuracy, compliance, and operational efficiency across university funds.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in a related area.
• Advanced degree preferred.
• Five years of directly related, progressively responsible experience, or nine years of equivalent experience/training.
• Professional certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provides leadership to achieve goals in accordance with established policies and decentralized financial activities.
• Manages financial operations including general accounting, gifts and endowments accounting, capital projects, fixed assets, accounts receivable, grants, contracts, payroll feeds, and recharge accounting tracked with Oracle modules.
• Meets all government reporting requirements for relevant financial activities and manages financial reporting and year-end close.
• Directs staffing, budgeting, and personnel activities of the department, and ensures efficiencies through lean practices.
• Assists campus departments with complex accounting issues and provides expert accounting guidance.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

GAAP knowledge

Financial reporting

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree

Advanced degree preferred

Professional certification preferred

Job description

University of California, Merced seeks a Director to establish objectives and work plans for managing data related to actual results. You will oversee data processing in Oracle ERP, provide comprehensive fiscal management, and guide strategic financial planning to support campus leadership.

The role requires governance of financial reports, close processes, staff leadership, and policy execution to ensure accuracy, compliance, and operational efficiency across university funds.