Financial Analyst

About The Role

The Principal Analyst position is a key leadership role within the Financial Planning and Analysis division at UCSC. Reporting directly to the Director of Financial Planning and Analysis, this role provides strategic oversight and expert guidance on financial and resource planning across multiple departments and programs. The incumbent will manage complex, multi-source budgets encompassing state funds, student fees, grants, gifts, endowments, auxiliary income, and other revenue streams. This position is responsible for ensuring the financial health and operational efficiency of the units served, developing long-term financial strategies, and implementing policies that promote compliance and optimal resource utilization. The role also involves collaborating with senior leadership, supporting divisional strategic planning, and overseeing financial reporting and analysis to enable data-driven decision-making. As a leader, the Principal Analyst may supervise other analysts and administrative staff, fostering a collaborative team environment dedicated to excellence in financial management.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Proven ability to independently analyze complex financial data from multiple sources.
• Exceptional communication skills, capable of presenting complex financial information clearly and concisely both verbally and in writing.
• Advanced proficiency in spreadsheet, database, and financial analysis software tools.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage effectively at all organizational levels.
• Critical thinking skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Demonstrated service orientation and ability to manage multiple priorities in a high-volume environment.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work collaboratively within a team setting.

Responsibilities

• Conduct complex financial analysis to assess past performance and forecast future financial outcomes.
• Led the development and maintenance of long-range financial models and business plans.
• Prepare detailed analyses for operating, capital, and auxiliary budgets, supporting strategic decision-making.
• Perform scenario analysis to evaluate potential financial impacts and inform leadership decisions.
• Serve as a divisional expert on fund management, financial policies, and internal controls.
• Cook up annual budget planning processes across assigned departments, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Develop revenue and expenditure projections, monitor budget performance, and recommend reallocations as needed.
• Advise department leaders on financial and operational implications of their decisions.
• Design and implement internal control procedures to safeguard university assets.
• Ensure compliance with UC, state, and federal financial policies and regulations.
• Develop and support financial systems, reporting tools, dashboards, and automation initiatives to enhance data clarity and decision-making.
• Manage personnel budgets, including salary provisions, reclassifications, and hiring transactions.
• Support strategic initiatives, participate in committees, and lead special projects related to financial planning.
• Train and guide unit budget analysts and administrative staff to ensure best practices in financial management.
• Foster a collaborative, customer-focused team environment committed to operational excellence.

Benefits

• Full benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retail plan options with employer contributions.
• Paid time off including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities and tuition remission programs.
• Flexible work arrangements supporting work-life balance.
• Access to university resources, wellness programs, and employee assistance services.

Equal Opportunity

The University of California, Santa Cruz, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories. We undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts in accordance with applicable laws and policies to ensure equitable employment opportunities for everyone.