Senior Level Planning Associate Jobs
Senior level planning associate jobs place experienced professionals in charge of shaping project direction, owning complex planning outcomes, and guiding the teams and processes that deliver results. Openings are concentrated in Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals, Education, and Chemicals & Materials, with a mix of on-site, remote, and hybrid settings, and employers like Clorox Services, Emerson College, and Harvard University hiring at this level now.
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Showing 5 of 6+ Senior Level Planning Associate jobs
By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.
Why Work at Harvard Library?
At Harvard Library, we are champions of curiosity. We aim to be global leaders in expanding world knowledge and intellectual exploration. We engage with our communities in the creation and sharing of new knowledge, connecting them with the vast collections that we curate and steward through collaborations around the world. At its core, our mission for nearly four centuries has been to advance the learning, research, and pursuit of truth that are at the heart of Harvard. Our efforts are motivated and powered by working collaboratively, embracing diverse perspectives, championing access, aiming for the extraordinary, and always leading with curiosity.
**Although the position will remain posted until filled, applicants are strongly encouraged to apply by the end of the day on Monday, November 23, 2026.**
Job-Specific Responsibilities:
The Associate Director of Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) serves as a strategic finance leader for Harvard College Library, providing leadership in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, multi-year financial planning, capital planning, fund management, and decision support across a diverse portfolio of operating, endowment, and restricted funds.
Reporting to the Senior Director of Financial Planning & Analysis, the Associate Director leads the Harvard College Library financial portfolio and supervises members of the FP&A team. The Associate Director partners closely with library leadership, budget managers, Accounting, VPDR, FAS Finance, and other University stakeholders to provide strategic financial guidance, strengthen financial stewardship, develop staff, improve business processes, and support informed decision-making that advances the Library's mission and institutional priorities.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Team Leadership & Organizational Development
- Supervise, mentor, coach, and develop FP&A staff by providing technical guidance, establishing priorities, managing workloads, reviewing work products, and supporting professional growth.
- Foster a collaborative, customer-focused, and high-performing team culture that promotes accountability, continuous improvement, innovation, and exceptional client service.
- Support recruitment, onboarding, training, performance management, and succession planning to strengthen organizational capacity and develop future finance leaders.
- Establish, maintain, and continuously improve FP&A documentation, shared file structures, workflow standards, internal controls, and business continuity plans to promote operational consistency, knowledge transfer, and organizational resilience.
Financial Strategy, Budget & Resource Stewardship
- In partnership with the Senior Director, lead the development, implementation, monitoring, and presentation of the Harvard College Library annual operating budget, quarterly forecasts, multi-year financial plan (MYFP), capital planning, and related financial deliverables for library leadership, the Vice President for the Harvard Library, and FAS Finance.
- Serve as the primary FP&A advisor to Harvard College Library budget managers by providing strategic financial guidance on budget development, forecasting, fund management, financial sustainability, and long-term resource planning.
- Monitor, analyze, and advise on major funding sources and financial activity, including University charges, endowment income, FAS, PDF, and other subventions, other tub income transfers, central assessments, income credits and debits, gifts, and other revenue sources.
- Lead fund utilization and optimization strategies by evaluating unrestricted and restricted fund balances, reserve planning, and spending trends to maximize financial flexibility while ensuring compliance with University and FAS policies and donor intent.
- Oversee FTE and position management by monitoring staffing plans, salary budgets, vacancies, workforce projections, and organizational changes to ensure alignment with approved budgets and strategic priorities.
- Identify financial risks and opportunities through variance analysis, trend analysis, scenario modeling, and long-range forecasting, recommending strategies that promote financial sustainability and operational effectiveness.
- Lead complex financial analyses, business cases, and special projects that support library leadership in evaluating strategic initiatives, operational alternatives, and resource allocation decisions.
Operational Planning, Facilities & Continuous Improvement
- Lead financial planning and analysis for facilities/building operations operating budgets, building reserves, capital projects, space-related costs, and other infrastructure investments that support Library operations.
- Provide financial planning and analysis for collections management, including budget development, spending analysis, fund utilization, and long-term financial sustainability.
- Develop and implement advanced financial models, dashboards, reporting tools, and analytical methodologies that improve forecasting accuracy, operational efficiency, and executive decision support.
- Evaluate emerging technologies, including Generative AI and financial systems enhancements, to identify opportunities to improve reporting, workflow automation, analytical capabilities, and administrative efficiency.
- Perform other duties and special projects as assigned in support of the goals and priorities of the Harvard College Library Finance organization.
Strategic Partnerships & Client Services
- Build and maintain collaborative relationships with Accounting, Library Administration, Library Building Operations, VPDR, FAS Finance, Human Resources, University financial offices, library budget managers, and other stakeholders to ensure coordinated financial planning, accurate reporting, and responsible stewardship of University resources.
- Partner with library leadership to provide consultative financial guidance that aligns operational planning with strategic priorities and supports informed decision-making.
- Represent FP&A on cross-functional initiatives, strategic projects, and FAs and University-wide financial planning efforts as assigned.
- Support the continued integration and advancement of Harvard College Library finance organization through collaboration, process improvement, and the implementation of shared best practices.
Other duties as assigned
Level of Flexibility: Work location is responsive and subject to change based on business needs. Requests for flexibility will be considered consistent with Harvard University flexwork policies
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience required
- Minimum of 8 years’ relevant work experience
Additional Qualifications and Skills:
- Supervisory experience
- Advanced knowledge and experience with Microsoft Office Suite, Excel and PowerPoint skills
- Advanced knowledge and experience of budget management, financial analysis, financial modeling; working knowledge of accounting principles
- Advanced knowledge and experience with financial systems and data query tools
- Harvard financial administrative systems (HUBS, SmartView, Oracle, CAPS, CPATH, PeopleSoft) knowledge and experience a plus
- Ability to work in ambiguous environment: to define objectives, set tasks, build relationships, and achieve outcomes
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Excellent interpersonal skills: ability to work well within a large and complex organization; ability to build strong relationships with constituents and provide services and information to meet their needs
- Collaborative working style with excellent consultative, project management, problem solving and presentation skills
- Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, belonging and antiracism
Physical Requirements:
- There are no notable physical demands associated with this position.
Work Environment:
- This position will be hybrid and will sometimes require on-site work in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
- The hybrid work model will be compliant with Harvard University policies.
Other Information:
- This position has a 90-day orientation and review period.
- Pre-Employment screening required.
Work Format Details
This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.
Salary Grade and Ranges
This position is salary grade level 059. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.
Benefits
Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:
- Generous paid time off including parental leave
- Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
- Retirement plans with university contributions
- Wellbeing and mental health resources
- Support for families and caregivers
- Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
- Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks
Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.
EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement
Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.
Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.
By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.
Why Work at Harvard Library?
At Harvard Library, we are champions of curiosity. We aim to be global leaders in expanding world knowledge and intellectual exploration. We engage with our communities in the creation and sharing of new knowledge, connecting them with the vast collections that we curate and steward through collaborations around the world. At its core, our mission for nearly four centuries has been to advance the learning, research, and pursuit of truth that are at the heart of Harvard. Our efforts are motivated and powered by working collaboratively, embracing diverse perspectives, championing access, aiming for the extraordinary, and always leading with curiosity.
**Although the position will remain posted until filled, applicants are strongly encouraged to apply by the end of the day on Monday, November 23, 2026.**
Job-Specific Responsibilities:
The Associate Director of Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) serves as a strategic finance leader for Harvard College Library, providing leadership in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, multi-year financial planning, capital planning, fund management, and decision support across a diverse portfolio of operating, endowment, and restricted funds.
Reporting to the Senior Director of Financial Planning & Analysis, the Associate Director leads the Harvard College Library financial portfolio and supervises members of the FP&A team. The Associate Director partners closely with library leadership, budget managers, Accounting, VPDR, FAS Finance, and other University stakeholders to provide strategic financial guidance, strengthen financial stewardship, develop staff, improve business processes, and support informed decision-making that advances the Library's mission and institutional priorities.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Team Leadership & Organizational Development
- Supervise, mentor, coach, and develop FP&A staff by providing technical guidance, establishing priorities, managing workloads, reviewing work products, and supporting professional growth.
- Foster a collaborative, customer-focused, and high-performing team culture that promotes accountability, continuous improvement, innovation, and exceptional client service.
- Support recruitment, onboarding, training, performance management, and succession planning to strengthen organizational capacity and develop future finance leaders.
- Establish, maintain, and continuously improve FP&A documentation, shared file structures, workflow standards, internal controls, and business continuity plans to promote operational consistency, knowledge transfer, and organizational resilience.
Financial Strategy, Budget & Resource Stewardship
- In partnership with the Senior Director, lead the development, implementation, monitoring, and presentation of the Harvard College Library annual operating budget, quarterly forecasts, multi-year financial plan (MYFP), capital planning, and related financial deliverables for library leadership, the Vice President for the Harvard Library, and FAS Finance.
- Serve as the primary FP&A advisor to Harvard College Library budget managers by providing strategic financial guidance on budget development, forecasting, fund management, financial sustainability, and long-term resource planning.
- Monitor, analyze, and advise on major funding sources and financial activity, including University charges, endowment income, FAS, PDF, and other subventions, other tub income transfers, central assessments, income credits and debits, gifts, and other revenue sources.
- Lead fund utilization and optimization strategies by evaluating unrestricted and restricted fund balances, reserve planning, and spending trends to maximize financial flexibility while ensuring compliance with University and FAS policies and donor intent.
- Oversee FTE and position management by monitoring staffing plans, salary budgets, vacancies, workforce projections, and organizational changes to ensure alignment with approved budgets and strategic priorities.
- Identify financial risks and opportunities through variance analysis, trend analysis, scenario modeling, and long-range forecasting, recommending strategies that promote financial sustainability and operational effectiveness.
- Lead complex financial analyses, business cases, and special projects that support library leadership in evaluating strategic initiatives, operational alternatives, and resource allocation decisions.
Operational Planning, Facilities & Continuous Improvement
- Lead financial planning and analysis for facilities/building operations operating budgets, building reserves, capital projects, space-related costs, and other infrastructure investments that support Library operations.
- Provide financial planning and analysis for collections management, including budget development, spending analysis, fund utilization, and long-term financial sustainability.
- Develop and implement advanced financial models, dashboards, reporting tools, and analytical methodologies that improve forecasting accuracy, operational efficiency, and executive decision support.
- Evaluate emerging technologies, including Generative AI and financial systems enhancements, to identify opportunities to improve reporting, workflow automation, analytical capabilities, and administrative efficiency.
- Perform other duties and special projects as assigned in support of the goals and priorities of the Harvard College Library Finance organization.
Strategic Partnerships & Client Services
- Build and maintain collaborative relationships with Accounting, Library Administration, Library Building Operations, VPDR, FAS Finance, Human Resources, University financial offices, library budget managers, and other stakeholders to ensure coordinated financial planning, accurate reporting, and responsible stewardship of University resources.
- Partner with library leadership to provide consultative financial guidance that aligns operational planning with strategic priorities and supports informed decision-making.
- Represent FP&A on cross-functional initiatives, strategic projects, and FAs and University-wide financial planning efforts as assigned.
- Support the continued integration and advancement of Harvard College Library finance organization through collaboration, process improvement, and the implementation of shared best practices.
Other duties as assigned
Level of Flexibility: Work location is responsive and subject to change based on business needs. Requests for flexibility will be considered consistent with Harvard University flexwork policies
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience required
- Minimum of 8 years’ relevant work experience
Additional Qualifications and Skills:
- Supervisory experience
- Advanced knowledge and experience with Microsoft Office Suite, Excel and PowerPoint skills
- Advanced knowledge and experience of budget management, financial analysis, financial modeling; working knowledge of accounting principles
- Advanced knowledge and experience with financial systems and data query tools
- Harvard financial administrative systems (HUBS, SmartView, Oracle, CAPS, CPATH, PeopleSoft) knowledge and experience a plus
- Ability to work in ambiguous environment: to define objectives, set tasks, build relationships, and achieve outcomes
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Excellent interpersonal skills: ability to work well within a large and complex organization; ability to build strong relationships with constituents and provide services and information to meet their needs
- Collaborative working style with excellent consultative, project management, problem solving and presentation skills
- Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, belonging and antiracism
Physical Requirements:
- There are no notable physical demands associated with this position.
Work Environment:
- This position will be hybrid and will sometimes require on-site work in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
- The hybrid work model will be compliant with Harvard University policies.
Other Information:
- This position has a 90-day orientation and review period.
- Pre-Employment screening required.
Work Format Details
This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.
Salary Grade and Ranges
This position is salary grade level 059. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.
Benefits
Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:
- Generous paid time off including parental leave
- Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
- Retirement plans with university contributions
- Wellbeing and mental health resources
- Support for families and caregivers
- Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
- Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks
Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.
EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement
Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.
Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.
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Find JobsSenior Level Planning Associate Job Market
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals
- Education
- Chemicals & Materials
Senior Level Planning Associate Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a senior level planning associate job?
Candidates who land senior level planning associate roles typically demonstrate ownership of end-to-end planning cycles, experience coordinating across departments, and a history of driving measurable outcomes. Employers at this level look for professionals who can lead without close supervision, resolve competing priorities independently, and mentor junior team members. Highlighting specific projects where you shaped strategy and delivered results gives you a clear edge.
Which companies hire senior level planning associates?
Companies hiring senior level planning associates right now include Clorox Services, Emerson College, and Harvard University, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Hiring at this level tends to come from mid-size to large organizations with dedicated planning functions, including corporate enterprises, consulting firms, and operations-heavy industries that rely on structured resource and capacity management.
Are there remote senior level planning associate jobs?
Yes, though availability varies by industry and employer. About 40% of senior level planning associate openings are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting broader workplace flexibility trends in planning and operations roles. On-site positions remain common in industries where planning work is closely tied to physical operations, facilities, or in-person stakeholder collaboration.
What makes a planning associate role senior level?
Senior level planning associate roles are defined by scope, autonomy, and leadership responsibility. Where mid-level roles execute plans within defined parameters, senior roles involve designing planning frameworks, owning outcomes across projects or departments, and resolving complex cross-functional dependencies. Mentoring junior associates and influencing organizational decisions are also expected, not optional, at the senior level.
Which industries hire the most senior level planning associates?
Senior Level planning associate roles concentrate in Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals, Education, and Chemicals & Materials, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. These sectors drive hiring at this level because their scale and operational complexity require experienced planning professionals who can align resources, timelines, and stakeholder expectations across large, multi-layered projects or business units.