This position provides business solutions consulting across the Financial Strategy & Sustainability Division. As a business solutions source of expertise within the division this position serves as the vital link between the business and the technology side of the solution. The position participates in the development of short- and long-range plans for business systems that are aligned with division business planning. Responsibility for key aspects of the development and management of the billing systems, client systems and interfaces, also fall within the scope of this position. The Business Solutions Specialist takes a lead role in developing and implementing division, department and branch specific solutions.

TYPICAL DUTIES INCLUDE:

• Provides technical consulting support and expertise in the effective use of the various systems and interfaces to support the operations of the Financial Strategy & Sustainability Division including overall performance, troubleshooting, modification, improvement and maintenance.
• Identifies implications of corporate and major system upgrades and develops and implements modifications to existing division systems and interfaces through modifications to parameters, coding structures and development of specifications and requirements for programming.
• Leads division user testing of new application releases, upgrades, enhancements, etc. Develops test plans and provides guidance to the users during the execution of those test plans.
• Works closely with division directors and managers to identify management reporting needs. Creates/tests/implements complex reports using reporting tools, particularly for reports requiring data from more than one system.
• Works with division directors and branch managers in applying business process improvement methodology to analyze business area work processes, identify opportunities for improvement and support implementation of process changes.
• Acts as a key contact with the Information Systems Division and other divisions where required and represents the division and participates in special studies, projects, upgrades, etc.
• Assists staff across the division in the effective use of their systems and interfaces through formal/informal training, advisory/consulting services, report writing and project support.
• Researches, identifies, tests and utilizes desktop development tools in order to effectively analyze, design, develop and implement enhancements to existing divisional systems.
• Applies project management methodology and tools in developing project charters with divisional clients, project plans and regular progress reporting for assigned projects.
• Administers various management information systems.
• Maintains current knowledge of technological advancements as they pertain to application development, maintenance management systems and the effective use of reporting tools.
• Develops and maintains documentation of system policies, standards, procedures and work flow processes for the operation of the various applications and interfaces.
• Assists in the definition of requirements for systems and interfaces, including development and implementation of PC based applications as required.
• Contributes to the development of branch and team annual work plans. Ensures personal work planning is aligned with branch and team plans as well as anticipated client needs.
• Develops and maintains various database systems for the division, including analysing system requirements; designing, maintaining, and developing management information systems; maintaining database security; and presenting database systems to all levels of management.
• Ensures corporate standards are maintained and adhered to on projects for which this employee is responsible.
• Follows all rules and regulations as set out in the Provincial Occupational Health and Safety Act and the City of Regina's Occupational Health and Safety Manual.
• Prepares reports, letters or other documents.
• Performs related duties as required.

CANDIDATES WILL BE SCREENED ON THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA:

Typically, the knowledge, skills and abilities required are obtained through completion of a University degree in Computer Science, Business Administration, or other related discipline; combined with three (3) to five (5) years experience in the development and implementation of new technologies and software solutions. Experience in analytical and operational aspects of business systems and workflow processes, as they relate to municipal infrastructure operations would be an asset. Demonstrated skills and extensive knowledge of database design and development including analyzing management information reports.

• Knowledge of the principles of computers and computer programming. Knowledge of SQL, Crystal Reports, or similar data query tools and programming languages.
• Advanced knowledge of corporate financial and maintenance management systems.
• Knowledge of systems analysis, design and development techniques, methodologies and processes.
• Knowledge of basic accounting principles, especially related to cost accounting.
• Advanced skills in using ad hoc query and reporting tools to create effective reports and presentations of data in text and graphical formats.
• Ability to facilitate large groups and document the development and implementation of technical solutions.
• Ability to work independently demonstrating sound judgement and initiative to establish priorities while taking into consideration the complexities of the issues and required deadlines.
• Ability to use project management techniques, practices and software.
• Ability to instruct and train departmental staff on new processes, procedures, software and hardware.
• Ability to express ideas effectively in oral and written form with particular emphasis being placed on the ability to prepare policies and procedures and to communicate orally to group audiences.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships in a team environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively with staff at various levels of the organization.

WORKING/OTHER CONDITIONS:

• Must possess the means and ability to travel within the city of Regina.

NOTES:

• Testing may be done to evaluate knowledge, skills and abilities.
• Candidates selected for an interview will be required to provide proof of acquired education*
• In accordance with the City of Regina's Criminal Record Check Policy, the position requires that the successful candidate provide a satisfactory Criminal Record Check as a condition of employment.**