BUDGET MANAGER ( AOTPS/CAPITAL BUDGET - job 1 of 2

The Budget Manager AOTPS at the Office of Budget Administration (OBA) plays a crucial role in monitoring budgetary and programmatic issues affecting various areas. Responsibilities include preparing detailed reports for leadership, assisting in creating the initial spending plan, tracking expenditures, and ensuring compliance with budget policies. The position also involves overseeing cost-saving initiatives and preparing materials for audits.

To qualify for the Budget Manager AOTPS position at OBA, applicants must hold a master's degree in relevant fields like economics or finance, and have two years of professional experience in budget administration or related areas, including 18 months in a supervisory capacity. Alternatively, a baccalaureate degree with four years of appropriate experience is also acceptable.

The salary range for the Budget Manager AOTPS position at the Office of Budget Administration (OBA) is between $95,000 and $110,000. This salary reflects the responsibilities and expertise required for overseeing complex budget-related tasks pertaining to the agency's various programs.

The Budget Manager AOTPS is expected to perform various forms of analysis, including monitoring budgeted expenses, preparing detailed reports on financial performance, tracking variances in the budget, and analyzing the impact of various cost-saving initiatives. This analytical work is key to providing accurate financial oversight for the Agency's programs.

A typical workday for a Budget Manager AOTPS at the Office of Budget Administration involves analyzing financial data, preparing reports, facilitating communication with finance staff, and ensuring that budgetary policies are adhered to. You'll engage in data reconciliation, assist in audits, and collaborate with the team to develop strategies for effective budget management.

To prioritize competing budget requests, I first assess each request based on its alignment with the organization’s strategic goals, potential impact, and urgency. I then consult with team members and stakeholders to gather input and utilize data-driven analyses to provide context to my decisions. This ensures that the chosen initiatives deliver maximum value.

In my previous role, I had to present budget findings during a quarterly review. I carefully prepared a comprehensive report that highlighted budget variances and provided clear visualizations of data. I engaged the leadership team by addressing their concerns about financial discrepancies and offered actionable recommendations, making the session collaborative and insightful.

For budget forecasting, I employ both qualitative and quantitative techniques, such as trend analysis, historical data review, and statistical modeling to project future spending patterns. Additionally, I consult with department heads to understand upcoming needs and ensure our forecasts are grounded in real operational insights.

I have extensive experience in budget compliance and oversight, where I ensured adherence to city policies by conducting regular audits and reconciliations. I collaborated with finance teams to implement checks and balances in expenditure reporting, and initiated training for staff on compliance protocols to foster a culture of accountability.

When discrepancies arise in budget reports, I take a systematic approach by identifying the source of the variance, analyzing the contributing factors, and collaborating with relevant teams to address the issue. Documenting findings and recommending corrective actions ensures transparency and helps prevent similar issues in the future.

I have worked extensively with several financial management systems, including [example systems], where I utilized them for budgeting, monitoring expenditures, and creating financial reports. My technical proficiency allows me to quickly adapt to new systems, ensuring efficient workflows and accurate data management.

To ensure effective communication among finance teams, I promote an open-door policy and regular check-in meetings. I leverage project management tools to facilitate collaboration and shared access to key documents, ensuring everyone is informed and engaged in budgeting discussions.

In my previous role, I led an initiative to streamline the budget allocation process, which involved collaborating with various departments to refine their requests and consolidate overlapping needs. This not only reduced excess budgeting by 15% but also fostered interdepartmental cooperation, improving overall resource allocation.

I stay updated on changes in budget policies and regulations by participating in industry seminars, subscribing to relevant newsletters, and actively engaging in professional associations. Networking with peers in the field also provides valuable insights into emerging trends and compliance requirements.

To manage the budget for multiple programs, I utilize a systematic framework that includes categorizing expenses by program, setting clear budget limits, and implementing performance metrics to track budget utilization. Regular reviews and adjustments help ensure that all programs align with overall organizational financial health.