Business Planning Analyst / Management Analyst

Working/Functional Title

Business Planning Analyst

Position Summary

The Business Planning Analyst provides analytical and operational support to the Director of Business Plan Development in the Finance division. This position assists in the development, evaluation, and monitoring of business plans for academic and administrative strategic initiatives.

Working under the direction of the University Management Analyst, the Analyst conducts financial modeling, research, data analysis, and prepares planning materials that inform executive decision-making. The position supports the evaluation of proposed investments in programs, facilities, partnerships, and operating structures by compiling financial projections, reviewing assumptions, and assisting in the preparation of comprehensive business plans.

The Analyst collaborates with finance staff, academic and administrative units, and other campus partners to gather data, interpret policies and procedures, and ensure alignment with institutional budget, capital planning, and strategic priorities. This position is developmental in nature and is expected to build increasing independence and expertise in university financial and strategic planning processes.

Work Modality:

This position is based in East Lansing, MI on the campus of Michigan State University. It is "remote-friendly", with the expectation of on-campus presence on a weekly basis. This is typically referred to as "Hybrid", with the flexibility of regular remote work mixed with in-office work as mutually agreed upon with the supervisor.

What You'll Do:

Business Plan Development and Financial Analysis (45%)

• Assist in the preparation of academic and administrative business plans in support of strategic initiatives.
• Develop and maintain financial models, including revenue projections, expense forecasts, cash flow analyses, and return-on-investment calculations.
• Compile and analyze financial, operational, and benchmarking data to support evaluation of new programs, partnerships, and facility investments.
• Research comparable initiatives at peer institutions and summarize findings for leadership review.
• Prepare draft sections of comprehensive business plans, including financial schedules, narrative summaries, and supporting documentation.

Strategic Planning and Reporting Support (30%)

• Prepare long- and short-range planning materials for executive leadership.
• Review, analyze, interpret, and summarize data for use in executive briefings and decision-making discussions.
• Assist in evaluating the budgetary and capital impacts of proposed initiatives.
• Develop presentation materials, reports, and executive summaries to communicate findings clearly and effectively.
• Explore new methodologies for planning and analysis support including artificial intelligence tools.

Policy, Process, and Operational Support (20%)

• Assist in the interpretation and application of University policies, procedures, and financial practices relevant to business planning activities.
• Respond to information requests from internal stakeholders and serve as a resource regarding financial planning assumptions and methodologies.
• Support the development of improved processes, templates, and workflows related to business plan development and financial analysis.
• Coordinate with the Controller’s Office, academic units, and administrative offices to gather required financial and operational data.

Other Duties as Assigned (5%)

• Participate in special projects, studies, and surveys related to financial and operational effectiveness.
• Engage in professional development to maintain currency in financial analysis, budgeting, and higher education business practices.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Accounting, Business, Human Resources or related field; three to five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive experience in a setting which corresponds to the department of employment including accounting, finance, budget development and administration and application of information systems and technology; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in evaluating, supporting and developing business plans in an academic institution, including preparing cash flow and return on investment analysis where appropriate.
• Experience in developing plans for a variety of structures, including university-financed projects, university and partnership projects , and P3 structures.
• Strong financial acumen, including knowledge of budget and capital planning in an academic environment.
• Proven ability to develop and deliver comprehensive business plans to support the implementation of new initiatives in a large, complex research-intensive university setting.
• Proficiency in Excel and financial modeling tools.
• Superior written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently to advance projects, but with the acumen to check in appropriately with both project champions and executive leadership.
• Master’s or higher degree preferred.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Resume

Cover Letter

Three Professional References

Special Instructions

This position is based in East Lansing, MI on the campus of Michigan State University. It is "remote-friendly", with the expectation of on- campus presence on a weekly basis. This is typically referred to as "Hybrid", with the flexibility of regular remote work mixed with in-office work as mutually agreed upon with the supervisor.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Website

https://finance.msu.edu/

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Bidding eligibility ends March 24, 2026 at 11:55 P.M.