Assistant Director, RSPA

Company Description

The University of Notre Dame, founded in 1842 in Notre Dame, Indiana, is a premier American research university. As a Catholic institution, it uniquely blends faith with intellectual inquiry, striving for excellence in teaching, research, and serving the common good. Notre Dame offers a dynamic and rewarding environment for its diverse community of students, faculty, and staff, who are all dedicated to fostering an inclusive campus and being a force for good in the world. With world-class facilities, acclaimed academic programs, and a strong commitment to innovation and ethical leadership, Notre Dame is an ideal place to make a meaningful impact.

Job Description

The Assistant Director of Research Sponsored Programs Accounting (RSPA) plays a pivotal role in maintaining the financial integrity of the University's sponsored programs portfolio. Reporting to the Assistant Controller, this position ensures strict financial compliance with all pertinent federal laws, regulations, institutional policies, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and Cost Accounting Standards applicable to higher education.

In this role, you will manage and direct the daily accounting activities of four Research Accounting Managers and collaborate closely with Notre Dame Research Administration regarding the post-award fiscal administration of the University's sponsored awards.

Key Responsibilities

• Compliance & Risk Management: Review complex grant awards to identify, analyze, and proactively address areas of potential risk related to financial compliance.
• Team Leadership: Manage, direct, and support the accounting activities of four Research Accounting Managers.
• Cross-Campus Collaboration: Partner with Notre Dame Research Administration on post-award fiscal administration, and communicate regularly with Principal Investigators and campus-wide administrative personnel regarding sponsored program fiscal matters.
• Process Management: Oversee and manage the constructed equipment process associated with sponsored awards.
• Audit & Training Support: Support interim and year-end closing responsibilities, fulfill various audit tasks, and assist in the development and presentation of financial-related training programs.

Qualifications

• Education Qualifications: Bachelor's degree (4 years)
• Experience: 5 to 6 years
• Degree Qualifications: BA or BS in Accounting, Business, Economics, or Finance with a strong background in accounting and/or auditing coursework
• Skill Qualifications: Prior accounting/business experience must have required decision making, analysis, and presentation skills. Excellent verbal and written communication skills along with proficiency with Microsoft Office software.