Financial Planning & Analysis Manger

Come join the finance team at the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), which supports the business shared services operations for a $170 million division. AURA’s Centers enable the next decade of astronomical discoveries through world-class facilities and science.

AURA is hiring for a Financial Planning & Analysis Manager to support AURA’s National Science Foundation (NSF) Centers Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) by providing a wide variety of detailed financial and administrative activities for large and complex programs and organizations. This role requires a deep understanding of US Federal Regulations, government contracting, AURA accounting policies and practices, and large federal awards and contracts in an international environment. This position plays a vital role in forecasting, performance monitoring, budgeting and resource allocation to ensure the organization’s long-term success. This position reports to the Director of FP&A and will work closely with all Shared Services and Center Business Management teams.

Core Knowledge and Competencies:

• Communication & Problem-Solving: Exceptional organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to clearly communicate complex financial information to both financial and non-financial stakeholders.
• Financial Expertise: Advanced understanding of financial, budgeting, and accounting processes, with a focus on federal finance, large federal awards and contracts, and indirect rates, including proposal and final rate adjustments.
• Forecasting & Financial Analysis: Expertise in forecasting, budgeting, variance analysis, and performing CSA reconciliations.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in dynamic environments and adapt financial strategies to meet shifting business needs.
• Government Contracting Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of grant and contract management, including indirect rates (NICRA), federal regulations, and the EAC process.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong proficiency in Excel, Microsoft Office Suite, Deltek Costpoint, and Cognos, with the ability to effectively use these systems to manage financial data and reporting.
• Project Management: Proficiency in managing complex projects, including preparing Gantt charts, tracking progress, and maintaining stakeholder communication.
• Coaching & Mentorship: Experience coaching Junior Financial Analysts and non-financial managers on budgeting, accounting concepts, and financial systems.
• Self-Learning & Initiative: Strong initiative and the ability to independently learn new financial systems, tools, and processes to continuously improve performance.

Job Responsibilities Include:

• Perform detailed monthly and quarterly variance analysis between actual and budgeted financial performance, identifying key financial drivers and deviations from budget.
• Monitor and adjust budgets and projections to reflect changes in funding, operations, or market conditions, ensuring sufficient funding on awards.
• Assist in the preparation and delivery of comprehensive financial reports for leadership, including monthly, quarterly, and annual reports.
• Design and maintain management dashboards, KPI reports, and other analytical tools to track financial performance and key metrics.
• Develop and monitor cash flow projections, ensuring accurate cash management and alignment with organizational objectives.
• Develop and implement training materials for budgeting and reporting systems, coaching Junior Financial Analysts and non-financial managers on budgeting and accounting concepts.
• Streamline financial processes, enhance reporting capabilities, and improve forecasting accuracy.
• Evaluate, implement, and monitor all financial systems, ensuring alignment with the organization’s objectives and improving reporting processes.
• Collaborate with the Awards Management and Center Business teams to create grant and proposal budgets, track actual spending, and produce required financial reports.
• Support proposal pricing, create proposal budgets for grants, and evaluate the financial impact of pricing decisions on business profitability.
• Ensure month-end and year-end close activities are completed in a timely and accurate manner.
• Provide guidance on complex contract setups in Deltek Costpoint, including CSA reconciliations and ensuring sufficient funding is available on awards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve Deltek system issues involving budget & planning, materials management, time and expense, and COGNOS/BI8.

Required Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities:

• Federal Finance Expertise: At least 3 years of experience in a finance-related role supporting government contracts, with a strong emphasis on large federal awards and contracts, project lifecycle management, and financial analysis.
• Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Process Improvement & Implementation: Experience in driving process improvements and implementing new financial processes to enhance reporting accuracy and operational efficiency.
• Time Management & Organization: Strong time management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Problem-Solving Aptitude: Ability to analyze complex financial issues and develop alternative solutions.
• Experience with Financial Systems: Strong experience with financial systems and software, including Deltek Costpoint and Cognos, along with advanced proficiency in Excel and Microsoft applications.
• Contract & Revenue Recognition Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of Cost Plus contract types, revenue recognition methods, and the EAC process.
• Professional Services Experience: Previous experience working in professional services or a similar environment, supporting government contracts.
• Trusted Business Advisor: Proven ability to serve as a Trusted Business Advisor, offering exceptional client service while maintaining high levels of financial management.
• Technical Competence: Ability to build strong, effective relationships and navigate complex financial systems.

Disclaimer: The statements above describe the general nature and level of work required for this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required. This organization provides reasonable accommodations for qualified applicants and employees with disabilities.

Location: Flexible. Preferably hybrid at an AURA office in Tucson, AZ; Baltimore, MD; or Washington, D.C. Remote options may be considered for candidates in states where AURA is registered as an employer.

Salary Range: $115,000-$160,000. The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications, experience, and job location. 

AURA offers an outstanding benefits package designed to support both your professional and personal well-being. This includes a competitive salary commensurate with experience, a 10% retirement contribution from day one, generous paid leave, retiree medical benefits, and a mission-driven work environment. Additional details about AURA's benefits can be found at https://hr.aura-astronomy.org/benefits-by-location/.

How to Apply:

The position will remain open until it is filled. To be considered in the first round of reviews, please submit your application by March 10, 2025. 

• Submit a cover letter or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: Lastname Docname.
• Application documents that are not uploaded as part of the application may be sent to employment@aura-astronomy.org.

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance at employment@aura-astronomy.org 

Salary : $115,000 - $160,000