This job was posted by : For more information, please see: DepartmentBFI - Finance and OperationsAbout the DepartmentThe Becker Friedman Institute for Economics (BFI) works with the Chicago Economics community to turn its evidence-based research into real-world impact. BFI takes a unique approach to bridging the divide between academic researchers and decision-makers in the business community and government by translating and packaging the rigorous work of the Chicago Economics community into accessible formats, and proactively sharing those findings with relevant decision-makers and thought leaders around the globe. BFI is a collaborative platform serving the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, the Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics, the Harris School of Public Policy, and the Law School.Job SummaryReporting to the Deputy Executive Director, the Finance Manager will provide high-level analytical and financial support to the senior leadership team, including all departments within the Becker Friedman Institute.In planning and implementing the Institute\'s financial strategy, this position will demonstrate superior organizational and financial management skills, including escalating and resolving issues. Develops a common set of metrics and methodologies for evaluating University and unit-specific financial performance by managing and integrating unit-specific financial data analytics and reporting. Contributes to the development of long- and short-term financial goals, business strategies/plans, and financial forecasts/models. Conducts research and advises senior management about financial reporting requirements at BFI. Prepares financial reports for the operating budget on a quarterly and annual basis. In addition, this role is essential for improving compliance and enhancing internal controls in accordance with US GAAP, University audits, and other agencies\' policies and procedures.This position manages operating and capital budgets for divisions and/or University-wide administrative units. Helps develop long and short term financial goals, business strategies/plans, and financial forecasts/models for major service programs and initiatives. Manages quarterly and year-end reporting for the operating budget.ResponsibilitiesProvides direct supervision and mentorship to the Finance Associate(s) and Finance Coordinator(s).Assists the Deputy Executive Director to develop and implement metrics and methodologies toolkits for evaluating financial performance for both the unit overall and specific assigned departments.Assists the Deputy Executive Director in the annual budget process such as preparing departmental budget packets and inputting budgets into budgeting system.Helps to develop and maintain a financial administration manual for staff with relevant University policies and procedures.Analyzes, reviews, and tracks comprehensive financial activities for the Becker Friedman Institute, primarily in the areas of finance, auditing, budgeting, and forecasting, purchasing, and other operational-related financial activities.Leads the development and coordination of financial planning and reporting, including the creation of multi-year financial models to support decision-making within the unit\'s leadership.Oversees the review, approval, and reporting of all expenditure goods and services, and costing allocations.Leads reconciliation of actual expenditures and revenue against budget; and prepares monthly, quarterly, and annual reports. Works closely with departments to understand variances and develops recommendations for programmatic changes or costcontainment strategies to avoid deficits.Reviews financial reports and accounts to identify inconsistencies and recommend strategies to address financia issues, leveraging an understanding of University\'s financial systems.Approves financial transactions through the University procurement and payment systems.Assists staff with the GEMS system and runs reports to ensure that transactions are reconciled at regular intervals.Prepares presentations to convey financial and administrative matters to leadership and members of the assigned departments.Develops and manages budgets for assigned BFI Programs and Initiatives.In coordination with the Director, Research Support Programs, manages the various calls for proposals and awarding of internal grant funds to faculty. Assists faculty and staff with review and execution of contracts and data use agreements; works to understand needs, assesses contract suitability to meet those needs, and negotiates with vendors to ensure contracts comply with University standards and guidelines. In addition, assists faculty and staff with requests to access datasets within the BFI data library.Coordinates with BFI\'s Senior Grants Manager to integrate reporting, tracking, and management of BFI\'s grants and non-grant financial administration.Represents the department\'s financial interests in interactions with internal and external stakeholders, including the Budget Offi