Financial Analyst, Shared Services

Nature of Work: Our Finance SBA team is part of the Administration portfolio. Finance SBAs are assigned to support specific colleges and units and implement broader Administration initiatives. Reporting to the Senior Finance SBA, the Finance Analyst ensures standard day-to-day financial tasks are completed and supports the financial objectives and operational requirements of the assigned portfolio(s).

Relationships are at the heart of what we do and it is critical that we are comfortable and effective in working across multiple, diverse and at times, challenging stakeholder groups. From academics to administration, research to operations, we work with all groups in identifying, planning, and implementing financial best practices to advance the mission of the university.

Primary responsibilities of the Finance Analyst role include financial analysis, reconciliations, journal entries, assisting in drafting financial reports, assisting in developing and monitoring controls, budget development, cost tracking, and assisting in strategic projects.  The Financial Analyst assists with various financial activities while maintaining a strong connection to Central Financial Services and SBAs on campus.  The Financial Analyst demonstrates a combination of strong university acumen and financial functional knowledge to assist in the financial processes. The Financial Analyst supports the delivery of unit activities and processes while supporting the operational planning and development of financial services across the University.

The Financial Analyst addresses financial matters, applying financial skills and offering exceptional client service, often during periods of change, high work volumes, and stringent deadlines.  The Financial Analyst facilitates and assists with auditing, reporting, and accounting requirements for the portfolio, and ensures compliance with ethical accounting standards and university policies and procedures. In providing various financial services, the Financial Analyst exercises discretion and judgment in maintaining confidential information, and applies sound practices with a consistent, proactive, and collaborative approach. 

Typical Duties/Accountabilities:

Financial Support

• Assists with budgeting, financial planning, reporting, analysis, and forecasting processes
• Ensures financial transactions, including invoices, payments and accruals, pre-paid expenses, and deferrals, are processed, recorded, and tracked in a timely manner and in accordance with University of Saskatchewan policies
• Coordinates and completes fund reconciliations on a monthly basis, including coordination and completion of required journal entry transfers
• Coordinates fee for service activities, including invoicing, costing, reconciling, and reporting
• Seeks to continuously improve financial procedures and processes within the portfolio
• Works with Finance SBAs with regular financial reporting against budgets and plans

• Provides professional support to assigned units in their day-to-day financial and operational needs by providing knowledge and direction on USask and unit policies and processes related to financial approvals and oversight
• Supports procurement of significant goods or services identified within the unit when necessary, and works with FCO colleagues and Service Centre partners to coordinate acquisition
• Establishes and maintains strong working relationships with stakeholders, including Finance and Resources leaders and staff, FCO colleagues, and Service Centre partners
• Works with Finance SBAs to ensure effective internal controls are in place for financial transactions, and to ensure financial activity complies with legislation, GAAP, agreements with external parties, and USask policy and procedures
• Other duties as required

Qualifications

Education: A relevant certificate or degree, preferably in Business, Accounting or a related field. Enrollment in a professional accounting program leading to the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) accounting designation is an asset. A combination of education and experience may be considered.

Experience: A minimum of five (5) years of related experience in general accounting, preferably in an institutional setting. Experience with budgeting would be considered an asset.

Skills: Qualified candidates must possess knowledge and understanding of issues (including cultural, socio-economic and other factors) affecting Indigenous peoples and an awareness that Indigenous engagement is a strategic priority at the University of Saskatchewan. Must possess the ability to influence outcomes and provide guidance to business decisions. The incumbent will be able to thrive, make sound decisions, and complete work accurately in a busy work environment with frequent interruptions and competing priorities under minimal supervision. Must be comfortable providing guidance and oversight to the work of their peers. Must be able to work collaboratively, build relationships with internal and external partners, and manage multiple demands to meet deadlines. Excellent analytical skills, problem solving skills, and communication skills including written, verbal and presentation are required. Must be proficient in Microsoft 365 suite. Knowledge of USask financial, HR, and work management systems (e.g. UniFi/FAST, About-US, UnivRS) would be considered a strong asset.