The Financial Director for Conferences and Event Services and The Center for Professional Education and Life Long Learning at The University of Tennessee is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing and managing all financial operations and personnel-related matters within the division. This role ensures compliance with university and state policies, oversees strategic budget planning and provides financial insights to support the department's long-term vision and objectives.

1. Budget Management:
   • Administer and oversee the division’s state-allocated and self-funded budgets.
   • Plan, forecast, and maintain annual budgets, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
   • Provide audit compliance for managing program income.
2. Financial Oversight:
   • Approve financial commitments and expenditures, ensuring fiscal responsibility.
   • Authorize all payments to vendors, staff, and any obligated funds related to budgeted expenditures and revenues.
   • Analyze financial data to develop projections and actionable recommendations.
3. Strategic Planning:
   • Develop and execute the strategic financial vision for the department.
   • Collaborate with leadership to align financial strategies with departmental and university objectives.
4. Contract Management:
   • Oversee all contract processes and approvals, ensuring adherence to university and state regulations.
5. Compliance and Policy Adherence:
   • Ensure the department complies with all university and state procedures.
   • Monitor and enforce adherence to applicable financial and operational policies.
6. Personnel and Day-to-Day Operations:
   • Manage personnel issues related to the division’s daily operations.
   • Provide leadership and support to staff, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
7. Communication:
   • Exhibit strong oral and written communication skills to effectively convey financial information, policy updates, and strategic plans to stakeholders.
   • Serve as the primary financial liaison for the department with internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• A minimum of five years of progressive financial management experience, preferably in higher education or a similar setting.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze financial data, develop projections, and provide actionable recommendations.
• Proven track record in budget planning, financial compliance, and contract management.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Proficiency in financial software systems and tools.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with state-allocated and self-funded budgets.
• Familiarity with audit processes and compliance requirements in a higher education environment.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Work Environment: This position operates in a professional office environment. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required to meet deadlines or attend meetings.