Job Details

Investment Accounting Financial Analyst

The expected pay range for this position is $116,995 to $122,000 per annum. Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs. At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website provides detailed information on Stanford's extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process. Stanford University seeks people committed to excellence and to improving our world and, in turn, is dedicated to supporting its employees as they develop their careers and enrich their lives.

Stanford's Business Affairs provides administrative policies, infrastructure, systems, services, and support for the benefit of the university community. Financial Management Services (FMS), a department within Business Affairs, is responsible for creating an ecosystem which promotes innovative and sound financial administration policies and practices that balance controls, compliance, and customer service. FMS is primarily responsible for financial policy oversight, quality assurance and financial services at Stanford University and its affiliated entities. It also serves as a liaison to the hospitals and the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center (SLAC). The FMS work environment is grounded by core values that include cultivating growth, celebration and appreciation, and collaborating with curiosity in order to nurture an inclusive environment where everyone is valued, respected, and can thrive.

Job Purpose

In a highly complex and constantly evolving environment, the University Controller's Office fosters a culture that promotes innovative and sound business policies and practices, balancing controls, compliance, and customer service. Comprised of approximately 40 professionals, the office oversees various financial activities, including Capital Accounting, Financial Accounting and Reporting, Fund Accounting, Investment Accounting, Global Business Services, and Gift Securities. We have a collaborative environment that thrives on innovation and continuous improvement.

In this challenging and rewarding role, you will contribute to the Investment Accounting team. This position requires effective technical accounting skills, strong financial stewardship, and commitment to governance processes.

The Financial Analyst will support the Real Estate Accounting Manager by performing complex finance and accounting functions. This newly created position focuses on managing and monitoring the accounting and operations of the University's real estate properties. The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated and experienced professional with a strong background in real estate accounting, financial reporting, and operational support. This role requires a flexible, detail-oriented mindset and a genuine enthusiasm for the work, combined with a collaborative and dynamic approach to problem-solving. The individual will collaborate closely with internal departments, including Stanford Management Company, Stanford Land Building Real Estate, Faculty Staff Housing, and external property managers, ensuring accurate and timely accounting and reporting for real estate assets. Strong communication skills are essential for effectively coordinating processes across various teams.

Preference will be given to candidates with a solid foundation in accounting or finance and technical accounting skills that allow them to effectively apply accounting principles to transactions. This role demands critical thinking skills to review current processes, understand workflows, and propose meaningful improvements.

Key Responsibilities Will Include:

• Oversee daily accounting and financial reporting for real estate properties, ensuring compliance with GAAP, internal policies, and relevant regulations
• Perform detailed reconciliations and closure processes, conducting critical analyses to prioritize and resolve complex financial issues while recognizing and recommending effective solutions
• Prepare management reports and financial analyses that explain results and support presentations to senior management
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders, such as Land Building Real Estate and Faculty Staff Housing, as well as external property managers to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting
• Design and perform ad hoc analyses of large, complex data sets to reconcile complex accounts.
• Execute internal control programs established by management, stay informed about new regulations, and recommend approved changes,
• Develop and maintain desktop procedures and process documentation for specific area of responsibility.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements while ensuring compliance with internal and external policies, maintaining appropriate controls throughout
• Participate in developing solutions for policy changes or new processes while maintaining an organizational perspective in decision-making
• Actively engage as a member of project teams supporting new initiatives

Note: Not all unique aspects of the job are covered by this job description

Minimum Requirements

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, or Economics and four plus years of applicable experience, or combination of education and relevant work experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• The candidate should possess a good knowledge of financial systems and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), along with advanced proficiency in business applications like Microsoft Office, particularly Excel. They are expected to have a minimum of four years of relevant experience in real estate, lease, or property management accounting, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Key skills include:
• Strong Communication: Excellent oral and written abilities to convey technical accounting information clearly to diverse internal and external audiences.
• Service Orientation: A strong commitment to customer service, balancing compliance while developing solutions in complex situations.
• Professionalism and Integrity: Ability to work effectively across various organizational levels while maintaining focus and successfully executing plans and projects.
• Organizational and Analytical Skills: Exceptional attention to detail, with strong problem-solving and critical thinking capabilities, enabling effective independent work and adaptability in fast-paced environments.
• Project Management: Proven ability to contribute to or lead aspects of multi-functional team projects while establishing positive working relationships within a diverse population.

Overall, the candidate should demonstrate a proactive approach to continuous improvement and a proven track record of delivering results.

In addition, preferred requirements include:

• Demonstrated knowledge of, and experience with, real estate investment software (YARDI) and ERP systems, preferably Oracle, with proven ability to apply knowledge to understand new systems and processes.
• General understanding of SQL or relational database knowledge to extract data and perform analysis.
• Attention to detail, accuracy, and prioritizing multiple tasks to meet deadlines and customer service response standards.
• Proven ability to apply knowledge to analyze and interpret business policies and external regulations and translate them into compliant and efficient accounting processes.
• Ability to observe trends in data, recommending and helping to implement solutions to increase efficiency, effectiveness, and accuracy of data.
• Strong customer-oriented approach to managing work.

Certifications and Licenses: None

Physical Requirements*

• Constantly perform desk-based computer tasks.
• Frequently sit, sort, file paperwork or parts, grasp lightly, and use fine manipulation, lift, carry, push and pull objects that weigh 10 pounds or less.
• Occasionally write by hand, twist, bend, stoop and squat.
• Rarely stand, walk, reach or work above shoulders and use a telephone.

* 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

• May work extended hours during peak business cycles.

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.

Why Stanford Is For You

Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and how it enriches 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