Real Estate Accounting Financial Analyst

OVERVIEW

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 (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanfords 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.

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Stanford Universitys 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 that 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 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 Controllers 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 Universitys 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

• 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 areas 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

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Education & Experience: Bachelors 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, 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

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS

• 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

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 Universitys Administrative Guide (http://adminguide.stanford.edu)

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 superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.

A healthier you. Climb our rock wall or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits.

Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.

Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts, and more.

Redwood City. Our new Stanford Redwood City campus, which opened in 2019, is the workplace for approximately 2,700 staff, including FMS, whose jobs are important to supporting the universitys mission.

The campus will offer amenities such as onsite cafes and a dining pavilion, a high-end fitness facility with an outdoor pool, and a childcare center for Stanford families.

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources by submitting a contact form.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.