"Sr Manager, Research Finance"

Sr Manager, Research Finance

Job Summary

The University of Utah is recognized as one of the nation's premier R1 research institutions, generating over $700 million annually in research activity that drives innovation, discovery, and economic growth. Within this vibrant environment, the Office of Research Management & Compliance (RMC) plays a vital role in ensuring that research is supported with strong financial stewardship, integrity, and accountability.

We are expanding our financial post-award team significantly to support the University's growing research portfolio, and it is an exciting time to join us. The Senior Manager for Research Finance will oversee the University's central core post-award research finance functions, including project management (setup, modifications, closeout) and accounts receivable within the University's financial system of record (PeopleSoft). This leadership role is central to RMC's transition to a new client-centric operating model, making customer service a non-negotiable component of success.

Under minimal supervision, this position directs staff and operations to ensure accurate and timely award establishment, compliant modifications, efficient closeouts, and sponsor billing and collections. The Senior Manager serves on the RMC senior leadership team and provides strategic leadership for a team of approximately 15 FTE across multiple functions. The successful candidate will bring significant research administration experience, proven management skills, and the adaptability to thrive in a fast-changing environment.

This role is ideal for an experienced research administrator who enjoys working at the intersection of contracts and finance. Success requires the ability to interpret sponsor agreements, translate them into the financial system, and guide a team to deliver consistent, high-quality results. As the 'front door' (award setup) and 'back door' (closeouts and receivables) of post-award administration, the work of this team is foundational to the University's research enterprise. We are seeking a collaborative, detail-oriented, and forward-thinking leader who thrives in a client-focused environment and values process improvement and innovation.

Responsibilities

• Oversees award setup, modifications, and closeouts in PeopleSoft, ensuring compliance with sponsor requirements and institutional policies.
• Directs accounts receivable operations, providing leadership to ensure accurate, timely billing and payment application.
• Provides leadership for a team of ~15 FTE across award lifecycle and receivables operations; recruits, trains, mentors, and evaluates staff; fosters a culture of accountability, collaboration, and customer service.
• Leads the transition to a new client-centric operating model, ensuring positive and consistent experiences for faculty, administrators, and sponsors.
• Establishes, monitors, and reports on KPIs for research finance operations; uses data analytics to improve service levels, compliance, and financial outcomes.
• Develops, implements, and maintains policies and procedures that promote accuracy, efficiency, and continuous improvement in post-award processes.
• Serves as a member of the RMC senior leadership team, working in partnership with other Senior Managers to set strategy, align operations, and drive organizational change.
• Partners with faculty, departments, central offices, and sponsors to resolve financial issues, balancing compliance with customer service.
• Provides guidance to leadership on trends, risks, and opportunities within research finance operations.
• Represents RMC on university-wide committees and working groups related to research finance and post-award administration.
• Promotes RMC's mission and vision by fostering cooperative relationships and strengthening the University's reputation for research excellence.

Problem Solving

This position requires the ability to analyze and resolve complex post-award financial issues across the award lifecycle. The Senior Manager must interpret sponsor agreements, apply institutional policies, and ensure transactions are accurate, timely, and compliant.

The role requires a proactive approach, strong attention to detail, and the ability to anticipate the downstream impacts of setup, billing, and closeout decisions. Challenges are often unique and require creative, collaborative solutions. Matters are escalated only when they involve significant institutional risk, policy changes, or issues outside established guidelines.

Comments

Work Environment and Level of Frequency typically required: Nearly Continuously: Office environment. Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required: Nearly Continuously: Sitting, hearing, listening, talking. Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking. Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Health Care Administration or related area, or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience); eight years of progressively more responsible management experience; and demonstrated leadership, human relations and effective communications skills required. Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Preferences

• Direct experience in research administration, with expertise in post-award financial functions; and hands-on experience working in PeopleSoft's grant suite.
• Experience leading teams in award setup, modifications, closeouts, and/or accounts receivable in a higher education or research setting.
• Ability to interpret sponsor terms and conditions and translate them into accurate financial records.
• Strong critical thinking skills and attention to detail.
• Experience implementing client-centric service models in research administration.
• Demonstrated skill in data analytics and financial reporting, including KPI development and monitoring.
• Supervisory experience managing mid- to large-sized teams, with ability to coach and develop staff.
• Experience leading process improvement initiatives in complex organizations.
• Master's degree in a related area.

Special Instructions

Requisition Number: PRN42934B. Full Time or Part Time: Full Time. Work Schedule Summary: Monday - Friday, 8:00 - 5:00. Department: 00359 - Grants & Contracts Accounting. Location: Campus. Pay Rate Range: $106,901/yr. Close Date: 11/25/2025. Open Until Filled: To apply, visit https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/187850.