Development Services Financial Analyst

The Office of Development (OOD) advances Stanford’s mission by raising philanthropic support from alumni, parents, families, friends, and institutional funders. Working in concert with volunteers and academic leaders, OOD staff members strive to accelerate Stanford’s purposeful impact in the world. Stanford is committed to a donor-centric approach to development. Every member of the Office of Development staff plays a role in providing the university’s donors with the service and attention that ensures an exceptionally positive and fulfilling philanthropic experience. 

The Development Services (DS) department within the Office of Development is responsible for processing all donations, over 100,000 transactions annually, and managing the database that includes over 1 million records with information for donors, alumni, and friends of the University.

Reporting to the Sr. Associate Director, Accounting and Data Management, the DS Financial Analyst has responsibility for providing offices with information critical to the University’s financials. The analyst’s role requires an understanding of the complex underlying principles of University financial reporting, including applicable systems, and the ability to apply those principles in carrying out projects and completing work. The responsibilities include analyzing and reviewing gift/pledge data and transactions and preparing related reports.

CORE DUTIES :

• Review, analyze and process gift transmittals to facilitate the processing of gift transactions daily. Ensure works complies with accounting and internal control guidelines. Identify and resolve complex issues which may span multiple areas.
• Construct and assemble data for budgeting and decision making; develop conclusions, and present high-level summary of recommendations.
• Collect data and perform research on details of gift transactions. Work with gift processing teams and other departments in developing solutions that may require policy changes or the development of new processes; maintain broader organizational perspective in decision making.
• Execute internal control programs established by management, research new regulations, and recommend and implement approved changes. May manage compliance program for area of responsibility and create complex compliance reports.
• Create and analyze financial reports, often from multiple systems; assist in preparation of reconciliation and management information reports related to gift and pledge data.
• Participate as a member of a project team; support new initiatives. Make decisions determining approach to managing and completing processes.
• Contribute to unit and organization strategy; assist in the development of change management plans and materials as needed.
• Develop and maintain desktop procedures and process documentation for area of responsibility.
• Define requirements, develop, and implement complex test cases, perform system testing and analyze results.
• Participate in critical analysis of existing systems and processes and identify opportunities for process improvement.
• Serve as a resource on matters that require specific technical, financial, or subject matter expertise.
• Demonstrate a commitment to promoting and supporting an environment of diversity and inclusion.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS :

Education & Experience:

Bachelor’s degree and two years of relevant experience or combination of education and relevant experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Advanced proficiency in business applications, such as Microsoft Office suite, especially Excel.
• Demonstrated knowledge of financial systems, internet and computer literacy.
• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Familiarity with University financial systems (Oracle Financials, OBI) highly desired.
• Knowledge of fundraising and general knowledge of university and hospitals helpful.
• Experience with software testing, including creating test plans and reporting bugs desired.
• Strong communication skills, including ability to prepare materials for and clearly and effectively communicate information to internal and external audiences and client groups.
• Ability to guard confidential information is essential.

Demonstrated proficiency in the following areas desired:

• Analytic problem solving: able to use a systematic approach in solving problems through analysis of issue and evaluation of alternate solutions.
• Decision making and problem solving: able to take action in solving problems while exhibiting judgement and a realistic understanding of issues.
• Commitment to task: able to start and persist with specific courses of action while exhibiting high motivation and a sense of urgency. Willing to commit to additional hours of work during time sensitive periods in order to reach goals.
• Communication: able to clearly present information through the spoken work; influence or persuade others through oral presentation in positive or negative circumstances; listen well. Able to effectively communicate to others regardless of their status or position.
• Tolerance of ambiguity: the ability to multitask and flourish in a high volume deadline-sensitive office. Able to deal with unresolved situations, frequent change, delays or unexpected events.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

• Constantly sitting.
• Frequently perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, writing by hand, sort/file paperwork.
• Occasionally stand/walk, lift/carry objects weighing 11-20 pounds.
• Rarely reach/work above shoulder.

* – Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Routine extended working hours during peak cycles; travel to school/unit sites across university.

WORK STANDARDS:

• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
• Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned.
• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University’s Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu .

WHY STANFORD IS FOR YOU:

Stanford University is one of the world’s premier academic and research institutions, devoting tremendous intellectual and physical resources toward the betterment of humanity. As a major Silicon Valley employer, Stanford seeks people committed to excellence and to improving our world. In turn, the university is committed to supporting its employees as they develop their careers and enrich their lives.  We believe Stanford’s future success will be shaped by the diverse perspectives, unique experiences, and inclusive culture of its community.

Imagine a world without search engines or social platforms. Consider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnesses. Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture and unique perks empower you with:

• Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or audit a course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
• A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.
• A healthier you. Climb our rock wall, or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits.
• Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.
• Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.