Director, Research Finance

Job Description

The University is seeking an experienced and collaborative Director of Research Finance to lead and strengthen the institution's post-award research financial operations. Reporting to the Associate Vice Provost, this leadership role is responsible for advancing financial stewardship, regulatory compliance, operational excellence, and strategic support across a diverse and expanding research portfolio.

This is an opportunity for a seasoned research finance professional to build institutional partnerships, modernize processes, lead high-performing teams, and help drive the University's long-term research mission.

The Director of Research Finance provides strategic leadership for all post-award financial management activities across the University's research enterprise. The role oversees research financial operations, develops institution-wide compliance and control initiatives, and ensures effective stewardship of sponsored funding from federal, state, industry, and foundation sponsors. The Director will evaluate and improve financial operations, policies, systems, and reporting processes while fostering strong collaboration across academic and administrative units.

Full-Time Equivalent Hiring Range: $172,050 to $215,050; salary commensurate with relevant experience.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in research finance
• Deep knowledge of federal regulations, sponsor requirements, and research compliance standards
• Demonstrated success leading complex financial operations within a higher education or research-intensive environment
• Strong leadership, team development, and relationship management skills
• Excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving abilities
• Experience managing audits, regulatory reporting, and institutional compliance activities