The University of Montana invites applications for an Assistant Director of Budget, Planning and Analysis for Operations and Finance.

This position reports to the Director of Budget, Planning and Analysis and plays a key role in the financial and budgetary functions of the institution. The Assistant Director of Budget, Planning and Analysis assists in the development of financial forecasts, the implementation of budget policies, and the preparation of analytical reports that inform decision-making. This position is responsible for monitoring and managing current budget operations. In the absence of the Director of Budget, Planning and Analysis, the Assistant Director of Budget, Planning and Analysis may also take responsibility for financial and budgetary functions, helping to shape the institution’s fiscal strategies and sustainability.

The Assistant Director of Budget, Planning and Analysis collaborates closely with the Director of Budget Planning and Analysis to analyze the financial landscape and assist in ensuring the fiscal stability of the university. This role helps with the development, administration, and reporting of the university’s budget and operating results contributing to a strategic financial environment aligned with the institution’s mission, goals, and operational needs.

This position requires a high degree of initiative and independence, as well as the ability to work collaboratively across departments to ensure effective financial resource management. The Assistant Director of Budget, Planning and Analysis also supervises students and/or classified staff, providing guidance and support in budgetary tasks.

• Supports the annual budgeting process by assisting with data analysis, financial interpretation, and the preparation of key planning materials
• Helps maintain and operate essential budget systems to ensure smooth execution of campus-wide financial processes
• Contributes to the drafting of correspondence and summary documents that highlight financial insights and key budgetary issues
• Offers support in navigating reporting systems and financial tools that serve as vital access points for budget data
• Assists with tracking projection outcomes, identifying variances, and exploring financial trends and implications
• Collaborates across departments to support finance staff in setting up effective reporting and data collection workflows
• Contributes to financial modeling efforts aimed at evaluating the potential outcomes of new policies or initiatives
• Assists in drafting and refining policies and procedures related to financial operations, including tuition-related practices and internal resource distribution
• Helps provide clarity and guidance to academic and administrative units during the rollout of new budget policies
• Supports communication of complex financial and administrative policies to campus stakeholders in a clear and approachable manner

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Management Information Systems, Finance, or related field
• Ability to maintain effective attention to detail, meeting deadlines, multi-tasking, and prioritizing competing demands
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and see the big picture to identify the appropriate metrics and data application
• Exceptional skills using spreadsheet, database query and financial modeling software
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with stakeholders at all levels
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Ellucian Banner Suite and Strata Axiom Budgeting & Forecasting Solutions Software
• Familiarity with relational database reporting tools including Tableau, Oracle Reports, Argos, SQL
• Understanding and knowledge of OCHE and BOR policies and procedures
• Ability to work independently, as a part of a team, or to lead projects as directed

Position is full-time, 1.0 FTE, MUS Contract and includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.

Screening of applications will begin after the closing Sunday May 18, 2025; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.

A complete application includes:

• Letter of Interest – addressing the stated required skills for the position
• Detailed resume listing education and describing work experience
• Three (3) professional references - Names and contact information

The University of Montana is interested in receiving applications from people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action: Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of “mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.

The Affiliation of the University of Montana (UM Affiliation) is an equal opportunity employer. UM Affiliation does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of protected class status as described in UM’s non-discrimination policy and any applicable law. Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request. Qualified candidates may request veterans’ or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.

Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the offer of employment. In accordance with university regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations.

References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. UM partners with SkillSurvey for reference checking. Applicants may receive emails from SkillSurvey to submit reference information.

Testing: Individual hiring departments withing the UM Affiliation may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.

Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM and all affiliated campuses, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9).