Jason Hendricks began working at the university in November 2021 as associate director of budget management in the Office of Budget and Financial Planning. Below, he discusses upcoming projects, recent obstacles and exciting accomplishments.
What is an upcoming project, event or initiative that you are excited about?
With the implementation of our new budget model, we are working on developing a process for budget review and a standardized, transparent budget request process for the campus. We piloted this process with Strategic Resources and Support and are now utilizing the process with the Office of the Chancellor. This new process will be an opportunity for groups and unit leaders to discuss their budgeting challenges and needs with leadership and provide a standardized, transparent platform for new budget requests. This will allow us to best align resources with priorities. We are excited about moving this forward with the campus in the upcoming year.
What is a recent challenge that you and your team overcame?
Recently, our team faced a challenge that many groups have experienced through the pandemic, as we went through a dramatic turnover in staff. With three experienced analysts moving on, and a very new leader (yours truly), the three remaining analysts did an amazing job of keeping our department running. Of course, I would be remiss not to mention the wonderful leadership Mandy Cole and Venessa Ortega provided during this challenging time to hold everything together!
Is there anything else you would like to acknowledge?
Our team is excited to see the new budget model put into practice for this coming fiscal year. It will be the culmination of countless meetings and hard work put forth by not only staff in the Budget and Fiscal Planning office but also several stakeholder groups across campus. The budgeting process for an organization of our size can be a complex and difficult undertaking. Having a well-constructed and strategic budget process is an integral part of keeping the university a vibrant and competitive institution.