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Why join the Harvard Kennedy School?
The John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is one of 12 graduate and professional schools at the university. Harvard Kennedy School’s mission is to improve public policy and leadership so people can live in societies that are more safe, free, just, and sustainably prosperous. By combining cutting-edge research, the teaching of outstanding students, and direct interaction with practitioners, we have an impact on solving public problems that no other institution can match. When you work at Harvard Kennedy School, you make a difference.
Job Description
The Office of Financial Services (OFS) at the Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) seeks a talented Senior Financial Analyst to join our team. This position is part of a 12-person finance team and reports to the Director of Financial Planning and Analysis. HKS’s Office of Financial Services supports and facilitates decision-making at the highest levels in key areas of financial management and strategic planning. This position will conduct objective analysis of the financial performance of certain departments and centers within HKS and will develop an in-depth understanding of the financial structure. We seek candidates with strong financial acumen and analytical and technical skills, who can collaborate with a wide variety of stakeholders with varying levels of financial knowledge.
Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Conduct complex financial analysis and update financial models and projections.
- Analyze and project budgets and financial activity for multiple programs.
- Provide technical advice and problem resolution for a school/unit financial community.
- Provide analytical and quantitative analysis to support decisions related to the preparation of the annual budget, mid-year forecasts and multi-year financial plans.
- Develop financial reporting for use in planning and decision-making.
- Advise unit/school on financial questions (e.g., endowment planning, sponsored awards, and capital planning considerations) in support of financial processes.
- Design and deliver presentations that educate School leadership on key financial issues.
- Review the quarterly and year-end financial results, identifying variances from prior year and budget.
- Analyze data from various systems to produce regular and ad hoc financial reports.
- Ensure financial compliance with University policies and procedures and applicable legal rules and regulations.
- This role is responsible for other duties as assigned.
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Qualifications
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience required
- Minimum of 5 years’ relevant work experience
Additional Qualifications and Skills:
- Strong computer skills - Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, advanced Excel, PowerPoint skills.
- Advanced knowledge of budget management, financial analysis and financial modeling; working knowledge of accounting principles.
- Demonstrated experience with financial systems and data query tools.
- Demonstrated ability to successfully manage multiple projects on deadline.
- Demonstrated experience in desktop computing systems, including spreadsheets, word-processing and databases.
- Requires demonstrated knowledge/understanding of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
- Excellent oral and written communication.
- Excellent accounting, organizational, and analytical skills.
- Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
- Experience utilizing Hyperion and Oracle financial systems preferred.
Additional Information
- Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
- Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education, Credit, Criminal
Work Format Details
This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.
Salary Grade and Ranges
This position is salary grade level 057. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.
Benefits
Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:
- Generous paid time off including parental leave
- Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
- Retirement plans with university contributions
- Wellbeing and mental health resources
- Support for families and caregivers
- Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
- Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks
Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.
EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement
Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.
Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

