Job Description:The Assistant Director for Contracts Management is a key leader within Pre-Award Services in the Office of Sponsored Programs Administration (SPA). This position oversees the Contracts Management team and provides oversight and operational direction for the development, review, and negotiation of agreements supporting sponsored research, training, and other sponsored activities at the University at Albany. The Assistant Director serves as the lead negotiator for complex and high-risk agreements, supports institutional compliance and risk mitigation, and collaborates with faculty, research administrators, legal counsel, and sponsors to advance the University's research mission. This role also contributes to institutional priorities that strengthen research partnerships and expand industry-sponsored research opportunities.
Description of Duties:Leadership & Contracting Operations - Lead, mentor, and develop Contracts Management staff, fostering a collaborative, high-performing team environment.
- Oversee workflow, workload distribution, and performance to ensure timely, consistent, and high-quality contract services.
- Review and approve complex agreements negotiated by staff, ensuring compliance with institutional policies, sponsor requirements, and applicable regulations.
- Monitor and report operational metrics and recommend process improvements that enhance efficiency, service quality, and compliance.
- Support effective use of electronic research administration systems and emerging technologies.
Contract Negotiation & Risk Assessment- Manage a portfolio of complex sponsored program agreements and lead negotiations for high-risk or sensitive matters.
- Review, draft, and finalize research-related agreements in compliance with institutional, legal, and sponsor requirements
- Identify contractual, financial, and compliance risks and develop solutions that protect institutional interests while supporting research activity.
- Collaborate with SPA leadership and legal counsel to resolve complex issues and obtain necessary approvals.
- Maintain accurate records and timely correspondence on contract status and key developments to stakeholders.
Customer Service & Communication- Serve as a trusted advisor to faculty, research staff, sponsors, and campus partners on contract-related matters.
- Provide guidance on agreement requirements, regulatory expectations, and best practices.
- Build productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders and deliver responsive, customer-focused support.
- Develop and deliver training and educational resources on contract management topics.
Strategic Initiatives & Compliance - Support initiatives that expand industry-sponsored research and strengthen external partnerships.
- Lead continuous improvement efforts related to contract management processes and services.
- Monitor changes in federal regulations, research security requirements, and sponsor policies.
- Oversee subrecipient monitoring and FFATA reporting activities.
- Perform special projects and other duties as assigned.
- Participate in RFSUNY, University, Division, and SPA programs and events.
- Engage with RFSUNY and University working groups.
Requirements:Minimum Requirements:- Bachelor's degree and at least 5 years of progressively more complex technical and managerial experience negotiating agreements, preferably industry-sponsored agreements in a higher education or research environment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Formal training in contract administration, contract law, or related disciplines is required; Juris Doctorate (JD) preferred.
- Must have experience in interpreting and applying federal regulations, sponsor requirements, and institutional policies and procedures.
- Demonstrated knowledge of federal contracting requirements, including the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), and applicability to institutions of higher education.
- An in-depth understanding of sponsored program policies and regulations with a goal of facilitating research administration is preferred.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required, as well as the ability to think critically, to successfully research, analyze and present complex issues.
- Demonstrated ability to assemble and work in teams with a strong commitment to excellence in customer service. Strong computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel and Word, are highly desirable. Experience using Oracle management systems is preferred.
Additional Information:Salary Range: $115,000-$120,000 (DOE)
Subject to change: This position may be eligible for up to 50% alternative workplace arrangement (Hybrid) with supervisor approval with in-person requirement located in Albany, New York. URL: www.albany.edu/research-economic-development/researcher-guidance/award-lifecycle/project-management
