How to Answer: Tell me about your exposure to budgeting and fundraising in your last position.
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Academic Dean job interview.
31. Tell me about your exposure to budgeting and fundraising in your last position.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks about your fundraising and budgeting exposure as an academic dean because these skills are essential for managing and growing the institution's financial resources. You will oversee the budget and ensure the institution's financial resources are effectively allocated to support academic programs and student services. You may also be required to fundraise to support research activities and other initiatives. Therefore, having experience in fundraising and budgeting can make you a more competitive candidate for the position. Discuss with the interviewer the budgets and fundraising efforts you have managed. Be sure to mention any significant results or achievements from your efforts.
Written by Krista Wenz on June 13th, 2023
Entry Level Example
"Fundraising was not a large part of my previous role; however, I did manage our school's budget very carefully. I believe my minor in business finance lends itself quite well when it comes to budgeting and has given me the knowledge and understanding needed to effectively allocate resources, make informed decisions, and analyze financial reports. By utilizing these skills, I have successfully managed budgets for my department and contributed to the economic success of the institution as a whole. Additionally, I can communicate more effectively with stakeholders and other decision-makers by speaking the language of finance. My budget management approach is grounded in financial literacy, strategic planning, and effective communication.
Even though I have not participated in fundraising efforts, I am happy to do so in this role as I believe education can change lives. Financial support like scholarships and grants can make a big difference for students who can't afford to pursue their goals. Raising funds for our school will let me help students directly, which will be very rewarding."
Written by Krista Wenz on June 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have ten years of experience managing budgets and have been actively involved in fundraising for many years. In my last position, I managed our budget so effectively that we were under budget in our spending for three years in a row.
This involved working closely with the finance team to develop budgets and financial forecasts, as well as monitoring spending and making adjustments as needed throughout the year.
In terms of fundraising, I was involved in a number of initiatives to raise funds for the school. This included working with alumni and other donors to secure donations and organizing fundraising events and campaigns. I also worked closely with the development team to identify new fundraising opportunities and develop strategies for cultivating relationships with potential donors. My experience in budgeting and fundraising has always been a critical part of my role as an academic dean, and I believe my expertise in these areas will serve me well in this position."
Written by Krista Wenz on June 13th, 2023
Experienced Example
"Budgeting and fundraising is the heart of what I have done in my 15 years as an academic dean. I am very comfortable putting together a budget and action plan. Over the years, I have gained significant exposure to budgeting and fundraising. I was responsible for overseeing the budget for the entire academic department, which involved careful planning and allocating resources to ensure that we could meet our goals and objectives. Additionally, I worked closely with our development team to identify potential donors and secure funding for various initiatives, such as scholarships and research projects. It was a challenging but rewarding experience, and I learned a great deal about the importance of effective financial management and strategic fundraising."
Written by Krista Wenz on June 13th, 2023
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1) when I was in China as a deputy director for a key lab with around 80 people, I did a lot of work on budgeting, salary raise, Bonus, etc
2) when I joined _________, I set up a new group, the company only promised to pay my salary for up to 6 months, I had to raise funds for myself and my team members, I did learn from that position
3) as a professor and PI at UTA, I need to budget and raise funds to support my students, postdoctoral fellows, and my summer salary
4) as the director of the homeland security research center, I was in charge of the budget and fundraising
5)as a partner for _____, a startup company, I helped with marketing budgeting and fundraising, I went to China, USDA and visit farmers
6) as the treasure for NAI chapter at UTA, I am in charge of budgeting and fundraising including membership fees, donations, proposals, meetings sponsorship etc， not only how to raise funds but also how and where to use them"
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