Assistant Director, Finance - Enrollment Management - UTK

The Division of Enrollment Management (EM) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) invites applications and nominations for our Assistant Director, Finance position. We are seeking candidates who can contribute in meaningful ways to enhance the accessibility of higher education, fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment, and improving the recruitment and graduation of our students. The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has been ranked by Forbes as one of America’s best large employers, as recognized on the 2025 list.

The minimum starting salary for this position is $66,245. Final compensation will be determined based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.

This is an on-campus position with some hybrid/remote work schedule flexibility.

The Assistant Director of Finance is a key position within the Division of Enrollment Management and is responsible for managing complex financial operations, driving data-informed decision-making, and ensuring fiscal accountability across the division. This role operates with a high degree of autonomy, applying expert financial knowledge and independent judgment to manage the day-to-day activity related to budget and finances, reporting, analysis, and compliance. In addition, the Assistant Director leads the training and support of divisional staff in understanding and applying university fiscal policies and procedures. The position plays a critical role in fostering a culture of transparency, efficiency, and proactive financial stewardship throughout the division.

Required Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a closely related field

• Minimum of 4 years of progressively responsible experience in financial management, reporting, or analysis.

Preferred Education and Experience:

Master’s degree in a relevant field

• 2+ years working in higher education

• Experience utilizing enterprise financial systems (e.g., SAP/IRIS, Oracle, Workday).

• Experience designing and delivering financial training/resources or policy guidance.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision; Independent management of complex financial tasks

• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills; Knowledge of budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis

• Understanding of GAAP and financial management in higher education/non-profits

• Proficiency with financial systems and Excel

• Effective communication of financial data to non-financial audiences; Strong interpersonal skills for training and collaboration

• Knowledge of state and federal finance regulations; Interpretation and application of financial policies

• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines

• Collaborative approach across university departments

• Commitment to equity, transparency, and continuous improvement

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Skilled in training on fiscal policies and systems

• Familiarity with fund accounting and grant management

• Experience with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems such as Workday, Banner, or PeopleSoft

Benefits:

University of Tennessee employees are eligible for a comprehensive suite of benefits that includes:

• Generous paid leave, accruing up to 24 days of vacation and 12 days of sick leave annually, plus 14 paid holidays and administrative closing days

• Flexible work arrangements, offering a hybrid schedule to most team members

• Education benefits for employees and their dependents at UT System campuses

• Retirement and deferred compensation plans, including 401(k), 403(b), etc.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans

• Employee discounts to attractions, services, and goods

The Division

The Enrollment Management (EM) division comprises more than 190 full-time staff who serve our students through the following departments and functions: Undergraduate Admissions, International Recruitment, Transfer Center, One Stop Student Services, Financial Aid and Scholarships, the Center for Financial Wellness, University Registrar, Pre-college Research Excellence Programs, EM Research & Analytics, EM Communications, and EM Operations. The Division of Enrollment Management is committed to our Vision, Mission and Values. We are passionate about fulfilling our land-grant mission of accessible education and making an impact that will transform lives through the student experience.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees—the Volunteers—who uphold the university’s tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service.

UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee’s flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy’s largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.

UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices that attract and retain a diverse community and that support a culture where everyone matters and belongs.

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as “Best Employer for New Graduates,” “One of America’s Best Large Employers,” and “Best Workplace for Women,” and has been designated as “Best Place for Working Parents” by Forbes Magazine.

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!