Job Description

The Assistant Financial Planning Manager supports institutional and unit financial leaders in developing and executing financial strategies, multi-year planning, forecasting, and budget monitoring to ensure long-term financial health. The position serves as a key advisor to operational units, cultivating a deep understanding of business needs, aligning financial processes with strategic goals, and providing high-level analytical expertise. Operating with significant autonomy, the role fields complex financial and technical inquiries and provides guidance on policies, compliance, and financial planning requirements.

The Assistant Financial Planning Manager collaborates closely with senior administrative and operational leaders, ensuring alignment with System-wide standards and participating in the development of efficient, compliant financial systems and processes. Supervise or mentor Financial Planning Analyst and/or Data Specialist staff as needed.

Duties/Responsibilities

Financial Strategy, Planning & Budget Development (40%)

• Supports institutional and unit leaders in developing financial strategies, annual budgets, long-term forecasts, and planning models.

• Interprets financial data, conducts advanced analyses, and translates results into actionable recommendations.

• Reviews account expenditures, evaluates financial performance, and prepares adjustments as needed.

• Prepares specialized financial reports, dashboards, and management reporting for leadership.

ERP Systems Expertise & Process Improvement (25%)

• Serves as a lead trainer to Workday and Adaptive Planning.

• Identifies efficiencies in financial procedures and develops, documents, and implements process improvements.

• Advises on internal controls, policy alignment, and financial system navigation.

• Ensures compliance with System-wide standards, definitions, and financial regulations.

Financial Operations, Transactions & Compliance (20%)

• Reviews, approves, and advises on financial transactions from standard to complex.

• Oversees budget adjustments, reclassification journal entries, and reconciliation activities.

• Liaises with the Financial Operations Center and System Office Finance Division for timely processing.

• Prepares compliance-related surveys and data requests.

Collaboration, Customer Service & Leadership (15%)

• Provides tailored customer service and strategic support to institutional units.

• Communicates complex financial information clearly to diverse audiences.

• Manages and supervises finance professionals on high-profile multi-unit projects.

• Provides training, coaching, and guidance to direct reports.

Requirements

Minimum Acceptable Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field required.

• 3–5 years of professional experience in finance, accounting, budgeting, or related field.

• Advanced degrees or certifications may substitute year-for-year for experience.

• Demonstrated expertise in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and monitoring.

• Proficiency with computerized financial systems and financial analysis tools.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of higher-education financial structures and funding models.

• Ability to interpret financial data and conduct advanced analysis.

• Expertise in budget development, forecasting, expenditure monitoring, and cost‑control practices.

• Proficiency with ERP/financial systems and reporting tools (e.g., Workday, Banner, Adaptive, Office Connect)

• Strong understanding of financial statements, policies, and regulations.

• Excellent mathematical, organizational, and analytical skills.

• Advanced Excel skills (modeling, complex formulas, scenario/sensitivity analysis)

• Ability to perform complex financial operations with minimal supervision.

• Clear, concise communication (verbal, written, and visual) tailored to financial and non‑financial audiences.

• Ability to lead through change and balance diverse perspectives.

• High attention to detail and accuracy.

• Ability to collaborate with System and institutional leaders.

• Openness to feedback and continuous learning.

• Commitment to confidentiality and appropriate handling of sensitive financial information.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in accounting, finance, or related field.

• Experience training and onboarding employees in financial operations.

• Experience in a shared services environment.

• Experience in higher education or tax-exempt organizations.

• Familiarity with Ellucian Banner, Workday, Adaptive & Office Connect

• Additional finance credentials (e.g., CFA).

Applicant Instructions:

Applicants should be prepared to upload the following documents when applying online within the My Experience: Resume/CV section of the application: (Maximum of 5 Documents)

• Resume/CV
• Cover Letter
• Contact Information for 3 Professional References

Applications that are missing any of the required items may not move forward for consideration. Additional uploaded documents not requested in the position announcement will not be reviewed.

Plymouth State University offers high-quality baccalaureate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs. Through research and innovative community partnerships, the University contributes to the economic, social, cultural, and environmental development of the North Country and Lakes Region of New Hampshire and beyond.

EEO Statement

The University System of New Hampshire is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access employer. The University System is committed to creating an environment that values and supports diversity and inclusiveness across our campus communities and encourages applications from qualified individuals who will help us achieve this mission. The University System prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or marital status.

Compensation Pay Range:

$66,480.00 - $118,860.00

The pay range for this position is listed above. Actual offer will be based on skills, qualifications, experience, and internal equity, in addition to relevant business considerations. More information on benefits can be found here:USNH Employee Benefits | Human Resources

Location:

Plymouth