Manager of Financial Planning and Operations

Harvard University • Boston, MA

4d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Manager of Financial Planning and Operations manages the day-to-day financial operations of Harvard Medical School’s Office for Graduate Education (OGE) and serves as the primary financial partner for its master’s and PhD programs. Reporting to the Director of Financial Operations, the Manager is responsible for annual budget development, ongoing budget administration, financial reporting, reconciliations, transaction review, and operational financial management across OGE.

The Manager supervises the Finance Coordinator and oversees purchasing, accounts payable and receivable, travel and expense processing, and financial approvals. The role serves as the primary financial contact for program leadership, meeting regularly with academic and administrative leaders to monitor budgets, resolve financial issues, and support stewardship of program resources. In collaboration with the Assistant Director of Sponsored Programs and Associate Director of Student Funding, the Manager coordinates financial services across OGE while maintaining internal controls and customer service.

The position is 35 hours per week and hybrid. The work schedule and location are set by the department based on operational needs; when working away from a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard-registered state, subject to applicable university policies and sponsorship requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience.
• At least 5 years of relevant work experience.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and advanced Excel skills.
• Knowledge of advanced financial administration principles.
• Demonstrated experience with financial systems and data query tools.

Nice To Haves

• MBA or a master’s degree in a relevant field.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary financial contact for assigned master's and PhD programs.
• Meet regularly with Faculty Directors and program administrators to review budgets, financial performance, and spending plans.
• Develop annual operating budgets with program leadership; maintain budget workbooks and financial forecasts; monitor budgets and identify emerging issues.
• Prepare monthly financial reports, analyze budget variances, recommend corrective actions, and coordinate budget revisions and reallocations.
• Assist programs with financial planning related to enrollment, staffing, and program activities; support fiscal year-end planning and closeout.
• Oversee day-to-day financial administration for assigned program portfolios.
• Review and approve journal entries, cost transfers, financial adjustments, Concur expense reports, and corporate card transactions.
• Review Buy2Pay purchasing transactions and supplier invoices; monitor account activity and resolve accounting discrepancies.
• Complete monthly reconciliations, support accurate financial reporting, review payroll allocations, and monitor financial commitments.
• Coordinate fiscal year-end close activities and work with HMS Finance to resolve accounting issues.
• Ensure compliance with University financial policies and procedures.
• Supervise the Finance Coordinator, assign work, set priorities, review work quality, and ensure timely completion of financial transactions.
• Develop operational procedures and workflow improvements; coach and develop staff; monitor standards and resolve escalated issues.
• Provide financial consultation to program leadership, interpret Harvard financial policies and procedures, and assist with purchasing, budgeting, and financial questions.
• Develop financial reports and analyses to support operational decision-making and train program staff on University financial systems and local procedures.
• Coordinate OGE financial activities with the Assistant Director of Sponsored Programs and Associate Director of Student Funding.
• Lead improvements to budgeting, reconciliation, and financial reporting processes; develop and maintain standard operating procedures.
• Recommend enhancements to financial systems and reporting tools, participate in implementing new financial technologies, and support special financial projects.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager