Financial Analyst

Description

The Financial Analyst provides critical financial planning and analysis support to the organization through budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and performance analysis. This role is responsible for analyzing financial results, identifying variances and trends, and providing actionable insights that support strategic and operational decision-making.

The Financial Analyst plays a key role in supporting grant reporting requirements, assisting with month-end close activities, and partnering with accounting and operational teams to ensure accurate and timely financial information. Additionally, the position supports the development and maintenance of dashboards and key performance indicators (KPIs) that enhance financial visibility across the organization and facilitate data-driven decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Planning and Analysis

• Oversee the preparation and maintenance of annual budgets, forecasts, and multi-year financial projections.
• Monitor and analyze financial results against budget, forecast, and prior-year performance.
• Identify, investigate, and explain variances and trends in revenue, expenses, and operational performance.
• Develop financial models and scenario analyses to support organizational planning and decision-making.

Financial Reporting

• Prepare monthly and quarterly financial reports, dashboards, and analyses for leadership, management, and Board committees.
• Produce accurate and timely recurring and ad-hoc reports that support organizational decision-making.

Grant and Restricted Fund Reporting

• Compile financial data and supporting schedules for grant proposals, grant reporting, and compliance requirements.
• Assist in developing grant budgets and tracking grant-funded expenditures.
• Monitor restricted and designated funds to ensure compliance with donor and grantor requirements.
• Collaborate with Development staff to provide financial information supporting fundraising and stewardship activities.

Accounting and Month-End Close Support

• Support month-end and year-end close processes by preparing analyses, reconciliations, and financial schedules.
• Collaborate with Accounting team to ensure the completeness and accuracy of financial information.
• Assist with audit preparation and documentation requests.
• Help ensure the integrity and accuracy of financial data.

Dashboard and KPI Development

• Assist in the development and maintenance of dashboards and management reporting tools.
• Track and monitor key performance indicators related to financial performance, ticket sales, fundraising, audience engagement, education programs, and operational effectiveness.
• Support the implementation of data visualization and reporting solutions that improve financial transparency and business insights.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with departments across the organization to provide financial analysis and decision support.
• Assist department leaders in understanding budget performance and financial impacts of operational decisions.
• Participate in process improvement initiatives to enhance reporting efficiency, financial controls, and data quality.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting.
• Three or more years of experience in financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, or related finance functions.
• Experience in a nonprofit organization, arts and cultural institution, performing arts organization, or grant-funded environment preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in a complex environment with multiple departments managing job costing and cost analysis.
• Strong knowledge of budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and variance analysis.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial reporting tools.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a collaborative environment.

Preferences

• Understanding of nonprofit accounting principles, including restricted and unrestricted funds, preferred.
• Working knowledge and experience with Sage Intacct and/or Tessitura, preferred. 
• Experience with Power BI, or similar dashboarding platforms, preferred. 

Work Conditions 

• This is a salaried role with responsibility for outcomes rather than hours worked.  
• Evening and weekend availability required at times.  
• Hybrid work environment.  

 Core Values in Action 

• Integrity: Ensure accuracy, transparency, and accountability in financial reporting while upholding ethical standards, maintaining confidentiality, and building trust through reliable, decision-supporting insights 
• Creativity: Apply innovative thinking to financial challenges by developing tools and models that enhance understanding across departments while strategically balancing fiscal responsibility with artistic excellence 
• Connection: Collaborate across teams to translate complex financial information into clear, accessible insights while building strong relationships that advance a shared commitment to the organization’s mission  

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra offers a competitive benefits package, free onsite parking, and access to complimentary concert tickets when available. 

Equal Employment Opportunity 

The Dallas Symphony Association is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law