Carleton University Finance Office

The Finance Office at Carleton University plays a critical role in managing the institution’s financial resources, ensuring accountability, and supporting the university’s academic and research mission. It is responsible for a wide range of functions, from budgeting and financial reporting to accounts payable and receivable, procurement, and payroll services. Its core objective is to provide accurate, timely, and reliable financial information to support effective decision-making across all university departments.

Key Functions and Responsibilities

Budgeting and Planning: The Finance Office leads the annual budget development process, working with various departments to allocate resources effectively. This includes developing financial models, analyzing revenue projections, and monitoring budget performance throughout the year. They also play a key role in long-term financial planning to ensure the university’s financial sustainability.
Financial Reporting: Preparing accurate and timely financial statements is a crucial responsibility. The Finance Office ensures compliance with all applicable accounting standards and regulatory requirements. This includes preparing reports for internal stakeholders, external auditors, and government agencies. Transparency and accuracy are paramount in this function.
Accounts Payable and Receivable: Managing the university’s accounts payable and receivable processes is essential for maintaining healthy cash flow. The Finance Office ensures that invoices are paid promptly and accurately, and that payments from students, research grants, and other sources are collected efficiently.
Procurement: The procurement department within the Finance Office oversees the university’s purchasing activities, ensuring that goods and services are acquired in a cost-effective and compliant manner. This includes negotiating contracts with suppliers, managing procurement policies, and promoting sustainable procurement practices.
Payroll Services: The Finance Office manages the payroll process for all university employees, ensuring accurate and timely payment of salaries and benefits. This includes processing payroll taxes, managing employee deductions, and complying with employment laws.
Research Grants and Contracts: The team assists researchers in managing their grant funding and ensuring compliance with funding agency requirements. This involves pre-award review, post-award financial management, and financial reporting to granting agencies.

Commitment to Service

The Finance Office strives to provide excellent customer service to all members of the Carleton University community. They offer a variety of resources and support services to assist students, faculty, and staff with their financial needs. This includes online resources, training workshops, and personalized support from finance professionals. They are committed to continuous improvement and actively seek feedback to enhance their services.

Contact Information

Information regarding the Finance Office, including contact details and available services, can be found on the Carleton University website. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to contact the relevant department within the Finance Office with any questions or concerns.