Job Description

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via ConnectU >   connectu.olemiss.edu

The University of Mississippi

"The University of Mississippi — fondly referred to as Ole Miss — stands as a premier public research institution with a proud legacy of academic distinction. We are devoted to nurturing a vibrant, inclusive community where every member — student, faculty, and staff — can achieve their fullest potential.”

Department Summary

The Financial Operations unit is part of the larger Administration and Finance team. It serves as the budgeting, planning, and financial analytics function for the overall university. From day to day operations to long-range financial planning, the unit provides critical support to university leadership. With a small team and a flexible culture, the unit is nimble and efficient and is able to meet its goals in creative ways.

Role Specifications

Below you will find classification and compensation information. For additional details behind the University of Mississippi classification system please visit Human Resource Compensation Page

Family -  Information Technology

Sub-Family - Data Analytics 

Career Track / Level -P3

Grade -10

Role Summary

Provides moderate to complex analysis of data using statistical techniques to discover trends/patterns that can be leveraged to meet business needs. Working directly with the Senior Director, the Senior Data Analyst will create data sets and develop visualizations that help direct decision making. With autonomy to research and explore best practices, the position will be expected to proactively bring data trends and ideas to increase financial stewardship of university resources. Much of the work will be project based with recurring status update meetings and various iterations of reports and dashboards. 

Examples of Work Performed

• Lead the design, development, and delivery of analytical reports, dashboards, and data visualizations to inform decision-making at the executive and departmental levels.
• Perform complex data analysis, including forecasting, trend analysis, financial modeling, and scenario planning to support strategic initiatives.
• Collaborate with institutional research, IT, and departmental units to ensure consistency and integrity of data.
• Integrate data from multiple sources, including ERP, HR, budget, and student systems, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and integrity.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior analysts and/or graduate students and contribute to the development of best practices for institutional reporting.
• Proactively identify opportunities for operational improvement through data insights, automation, and process enhancements.
• Translate analytical findings into clear and compelling presentations tailored to non-technical stakeholders.
• Maintain rigorous data governance practices and uphold confidentiality and security standards when handling sensitive information.

Essential Functions

These essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following. Additional essential functions may be identified and included by the hiring department.

1. Collects, prepares, and integrates various large and complex data sets to be utilized in various assessment scenarios.
2. Analyzes and models data to identify trends, test hypotheses, formulate recommendations, and answer questions.
3. Composes and assembles reports based on the analysis of various large and complex data sets to clearly articulate results and findings to multiple and diverse audiences.

Minimum Education/Experience

Education: Bachelor's Degree

Experience: (6) Six Years Experience

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Business Analytics, Finance, Economics, Information Systems, or a related field OR Masters degree in related field.
• Demonstrated proficiency with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI), spreadsheet modeling, and data querying languages (e.g., SQL).
• Proven experience managing complex datasets and conducting advanced quantitative analysis.
• Experience with ERP and budgeting systems (e.g., Workday, Banner, Adaptive Planning).
• Familiarity with institutional research, public finance, or university budget models.
• Experience with statistical or programming tools such as R or Python.

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate data into strategic insights.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a remote work environment.
• Highly collaborative and adaptable, with a customer-focused mindset.
• Commitment to data accuracy, documentation, and continuous improvement.

Remote Work Details

• This position is designated as 100% remote, with required availability during standard business hours in the Central or Eastern Time Zone.
• Occasional travel may be requested for team retreats or professional development events (with advanced notice).

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.

Minimum Physical Requirements

Physical Requirements: These physical requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job-related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. 

Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements.

Physical Exertion: The incumbent may be required to lift up to approximately 10 pounds.

Vision: Requirements of this job include close vision. Speaking/Hearing: Ability to give and receive information through speaking and listening.

Motor Coordination: While performing the duties of this job, the incumbent is frequently required to talk and hear; and use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The incumbent is periodically required to sit. The incumbent is occasionally required to stand; walk; and reach with hands and arms

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

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