Business Analyst

Role Overview We are seeking a dynamic and experienced systems and finance professional to serve as the SME for department financial systems and system-integration/implementation projects. This role is integral in ensuring that our financial systems, processes and vendor integrations are efficient, accurate, and aligned with organizational goals. The ideal candidate will bridge the finance and technology functions, lead system enhancements and integrations, and uphold robust internal controls. Key Responsibilities Serve as the primary subject-matter expert for departmental accounting and financial systems; evaluate, drive and implement system solutions and integrations (including ERP, financial modules, vendor/invoice systems). Reconcile financial accounts and reports; proactively identify discrepancies or inconsistencies, recommend corrective action, and maintain strong control environments. Prepare and/or review assigned financial statements, analytical reports and dashboards; identify issues and drive resolution to enable timely and accurate deliverables. Interface with internal and external auditors (e.g., district, campus, external audit) to provide information, support audit requests, and ensure compliance with policies and procedures. Identify process and system weaknesses; develop and implement innovative approaches (automation, workflow redesign, controls enhancements) to improve accuracy, timeliness and efficiency. Coordinate month-end and year-end close activities with stakeholders and campus partners, including accruals, journal entries, debit/credit memos, GL reconciliations, and supporting documentation. Oversee the journal entry process, debit/credit memos, logs maintenance, routing for approvals and ensuring timely completion per accounting guidelines. Approve and release invoices as assigned by the Finance Manager; ensure vendor payment documentation is complete and compliant with policy. Work directly with construction and professional services vendors (for bond-related matters), including vendor file documentation, payment analysis for general contractors, and invoice review. Closely collaborate with accounting team members and other departments to support bond-related financial matters; evaluate bond-compliance related to accounting, reporting and invoice approval. Execute ad-hoc system or bond-related assignments as directed by management; act as functional lead for system enhancements, integration projects, and cross-functional collaborations. Minimum Qualifications & Skills Bachelor’s degree in business, Accounting, Finance, Information Systems, or related field required. 5–10 years of experience in accounting, finance, or system/financial-systems roles; experience in higher education, public sector, or bond project environment preferred. Demonstrated experience working with enterprise accounting/business systems (ERP, GL systems, vendor/invoice modules) and/or leading system integrations or implementations. Proven ability to interpret historical trends, perform financial/variance analysis, create monthly financial reports, and draw actionable insights. Strong ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment; thrive in a fast-paced, multi-stakeholder environment. Excellent communication and presentation skills, able to engage with all levels of the organization (finance, IT, campus stakeholders, vendor partners). Intermediate to advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, data analytics) and comfortable using MS Word and PowerPoint. Demonstrated project leadership ability — able to lead system-integration/implementation projects to successful conclusion (scope, schedule, stakeholder coordination, testing/validation, training). Strong analytical mindset, detail-oriented, process-improvement focus, ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines. Preferred/Highly Desirable Qualifications Experience with bond accounting, vendor payment analysis, and contract/general-contractor invoice review. Familiarity with internal controls frameworks (e.g., COSO), audit preparation, public sector compliance and financial reporting in an educational or governmental environment. Experience working with ERP implementations/integrations (e.g., Oracle, SAP, Workday, other financial systems). Professional certification (e.g., CPA, CMA) or project-management certification (e.g., PMP) is a plus. Experience mentoring/training team members in financial systems usage. Why Join Us? Be part of a mission-driven public education institution and have an impact on financial systems that support campuses, students and services. Opportunity to lead system-integration initiatives and shape best-in-class processes. Collaborative culture working across finance, IT and campus partners. Competitive compensation and benefits (including pension plan, health, professional development). Hybrid work flexibility for qualified applicants. Hybrid work schedule, profit sharing, 401(k) match up to 3% and excellent work life balance.