The Business Operations Specialist provides advanced financial leadership and strategic business analysis for UT Extension enterprise operations. Serves as the primary subject matter expert for complex financial planning, forecasting, compliance, and operational analysis impacting statewide Extension programs and initiatives. Exercises substantial independent judgment in interpreting financial regulations, developing financial strategies, recommending business solutions, and influencing organizational decisions. Leads financial process improvement initiatives and serves as a trusted advisor to Extension leadership on matters affecting financial sustainability, operational effectiveness, and risk management. This position will also serve as the UTIA E-Commerce Administrator.

Required Qualifications

• Education:

  • Bachelor’s Degree (Accounting, Finance, Business Administration or Related Field)

• Experience:

  • Two-four years of progressively responsible financial management, budgeting, accounting, or business operations experience.

  • Extensive experience with Microsoft Office Suite.

• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

  • Knowledge of financial management systems, accounting principles, and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).

  • Knowledge of budgeting processes and applicable regulations.

  • Skill in analyzing complex financial data and developing comprehensive reports and projections.

  • Ability to interpret and apply financial policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.

  • Ability to identify discrepancies, investigate issues, and implement corrective actions.

  • Skill in effective written and verbal communication with diverse stakeholders.

  • Ability to organize, synthesize, and clearly present financial information.

  • Ability to exercise substantial independent judgment with minimal supervision.

  • Skill in training, mentoring, and providing work direction to others.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.

Preferred Qualifications

• Education:

  • Master’s Degree

• Experience:

  • Four or more years of experience at UTIA/UTK or with another similar higher education environment working in a business office or business position with accounting, finance, payroll, or human resource activities.

  • Experience performing advanced financial analysis and strategic budget planning.

  • Experience leading enterprise-level financial operations in higher education or pubic-sector organizations.

• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

  • Strong knowledge of Oracle Cloud or enterprise resource planning (ERP) software preferred.

  • Knowledge of university fiscal and human resource policies.

Work Location:

• Location: Knoxville, TN

• UT Extension supports a formal Alternative Work Arrangement program currently in place and more information can be provided if candidate progresses through the recruitment process.

Compensation and Benefits:

• UT market range: 09

• Anticipated hiring range: Starting Salary Based on Education & Experience

• Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here

• Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions

To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments.

• Resume

• Cover Letter

About The Division:

As the outreach unit of the UT Institute of Agriculture, UT Extension provides a gateway to the resources of the University of Tennessee. UT Extension is a county-based, statewide educational organization that is funded by federal, state, and local governments to achieve the mission of providing unbiased, research-based information to the people of Tennessee where they live and work. Because Extension emphasizes helping people improve their livelihood where they are located, most Tennesseans have contact with UT Extension through their local county Extension agents found in each of the state’s 95 counties. Extension agents are supported by a network of university faculty and subject matter specialists and the educational and research resources of the University of Tennessee as part of the Land Grant University system.

Financial Analysis & Reporting:
Conducts advanced financial analysis, forecasting, and reporting to support organizational and executive decision-making related to E-Commerce. Develops financial models, projections, and scenario analyses; identifies trends, risks, and opportunities; and provides strategic recommendations for resource allocation and long-range planning. Ensures financial data integrity through analysis, reconciliation, and resolution of discrepancies while coordinating financial planning initiatives across multiple units and funding sources. Trains

Budget Development & Management:
Supports the development, administration, and monitoring of budgets across multiple business units and funding sources. Conducts financial planning and funding analyses, provides recommendations to support strategic and operational priorities, ensures compliance with budgetary guidelines, and helps optimize resource allocation to advance organizational goals.

Compliance & Policy Interpretation:
Ensures compliance with financial policies, procedures, regulatory requirements, and internal controls through the review of financial transactions and documentation. Supports audit activities, evaluates and strengthens control processes, mitigates organizational risk, and recommends policy and process improvements to enhance compliance and operational effectiveness.

Operations & Stakeholder Support:
Serves as a key financial resource and liaison for internal and external stakeholders, providing guidance on financial policies, procedures, and business operations. Supports effective decision-making, ensures compliance and operational efficiency, and collaborates with stakeholders to resolve issues and promote consistent business practices.

Process Improvement & Training:
Leads process improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, strengthen internal controls, and promote best practices in financial management. Develops and delivers training, guidance, and documentation related to financial systems and processes; serves as a subject matter expert; and provides leadership, mentorship, and consultation to business and fiscal staff while supporting cross-functional financial and operational initiatives.