University of Chicago

Director of Financial Administration and Operations

University of Chicago$115K — $135K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in finance, business administration, accounting, statistics, economics, or a related field.
  • 7+ years of work experience in financial administration or operations.
  • Experience in financial analysis, particularly within financial systems.
  • Familiarity with grant administration and budgetary compliance.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially advanced Excel and financial applications.

Responsibilities

  • Manage daily operations and space planning for the institute.
  • Oversee budgeting processes, including forecasting and reporting.
  • Develop short- and long-range facility plans to support institutional goals.
  • Evaluate and improve operating practices for efficiency.
  • Establish guidelines for departmental reporting and compliance.
  • Lead financial planning and reporting initiatives with financial models.
  • Collaborate with leadership on budgeting, spending analysis, and forecasts.

Benefits

  • Wide range of health benefits including medical and dental coverage.
  • Retirement benefits with employer contributions.
  • Paid time off including vacation and sick leave.
  • Access to a range of professional development resources.
  • Comprehensive benefits support provided by the University.
Full Job Description

Department

PSD Data Science: Systems Administration


Job Summary

The Data Science Institute (DSI) is seeking a talented and experienced Director of Financial Administration and Operations to provide strategic financial leadership and analysis to support the programs and initiatives of the institute and oversee operations. Reporting to the Chief of Staff, the Director of Financial Administration and Operations oversees all department wide financial operations and DSI facilities. This includes budgeting, financial planning and reporting, procurement, revenue generation, and ensures effective and efficient departmental operations and to advance DSI priorities. This role collaborates closely with DSI leadership and operational teams to ensure effective financial management and decision-making.

Responsibilities

  • Manages the operations team and oversees the institute’s daily operations and space planning.
  • Manages the budget process for facilities, including budget forecasting, development,managementand reporting. 

  • Oversees the development of short- and long-range plans for facility development,maintenanceand expansion to support the needs and goals of the institute.

  • Evaluates and reviews operating practices and processes for their effectiveness and efficiency on an ongoing basis.

  • Establishes and implements guidelines and procedures for departmental reporting to ensure compliance and streamline processes within the university’s financial systems.

  • Leads the development and coordination of financial planning and reporting, including the creation of financial models to support decision-making within the department’s leadership.

  • Prepares financial statements, activity reports, and forecasts, providing direction on budgeting and accounting responsibilities, with a focus onoptimizinguse of the financial platforms.

  • Collaborates with DSI leadership and budget managers toprovidebudget guidance, spending analysis, and revenue projections, utilizingexpertise in the institution's financial systems.

  • Provides financial input based on the development of data collection, metrics,reportsand other analytical applications.

  • Serves as an experienced liaison interacting with financial administrators within operational units on financial, budget or accounting matters to prepare, advise and recommend.

  • Conducts quantitative and qualitative analyses tomonitorand manage forexpense optimization by identifyingmarket drivers, enhance strategies, or improve revenue generation.

  • Stays updated onUniversityprocedures, system updates, and compliance requirements, particularly within the financial systems landscape.

  • Works in collaboration with the University’s Research Administration teamand the PSD Local Business Centerto administer, track, and manage DSI’s grants and contractual obligations.

  • Reviews accounts toidentifyinconsistencies and recommend strategies to address financial issues, leveragingan understanding of both legacy and new financial systems.

  • Representsthe institute's financial interestsin interactions with internal and external stakeholders, including the Local Budget Office, Financial Services Office, and the PSD’s Budget and Finance teamwhile utilizingknowledge of the organization's financial systems.

  • Manages the daily operations of an organizational unit orassistswith managing the daily operations of a larger organizational unit, primarily in the areas of financial, purchasing, grant, facilities, humanresourcesand support services management. Ensures compliance of staff with organizational, University and other relevant policies and guidelines.

  • Manages all financial activities, including financial analysis and reporting, budgeting, accounting, accounts receivable/payable, and procurement. Oversees facilities management, including renovations, moves, maintenance and ongoing facilities operations. Manages development of all contracts, including those with vendors and other institutions.

  • Performs other related work as needed.


Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.


Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.


Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications 


Education: 

  • Bachelor's degree in finance, business administration, accounting, statistics, economics, ora related field.

  • MBA or advanced degree in finance, public policy, non-profit administration, or a related field.

Experience:  

  • Experience in financial analysis, with demonstrated expertise in financial systems.

  • Background in an agency, institution, or corporate setting strongly preferred, with a proven track record of success in the financial environment.

  • Familiarity with grant administration and budgetary compliance.  

 

Technical Skills or Knowledge: 

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including advanced Excel and PowerPoint skills, financial computing, and database software applications, with an emphasis on their integration with financial platforms.

  • Proficiency in financial principles, practices, and applications, including budgeting, planning, and reporting within the organization's financial ecosystem.

  • Strong financial modeling skills within financial platforms. 

 

Preferred Competencies 

  • Translate financial data into actionable insights and anticipate trends.

  • Demonstrated ability to navigate complex environments, exercise sound judgment, and maintain confidentiality.

  • Background working with senior university officials within the financial environment.

  • Work independently and manage projects with minimal supervision, while navigating financial systems.

  • Strategic thinking and translate strategic objectives into operational plans, considering the financial landscape.

  • Work effectively under pressure, adapting to changes within financial systems.

  • Passion for civic engagement and a commitment to the mission and values of the University of Chicago.

  • Excellent analytical and organizational abilities, with a focus on maximizing efficiency within financial systems.

  • Effective interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, essential for collaboration within the financial community.

  • Collaborative work style with strong consultative skills, facilitating effective engagement with financial stakeholders. 

Application Documents 

  • Resume/CV (required)

  • Cover Letter (required)

  • References Contact Information (3) (preferred) 

 


Job Family

Administration & Management


Role Impact

People Manager


Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5


Drug Test Required

No


Health Screen Required

No


Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No


Pay Rate Type

Salary


FLSA Status

Exempt


Pay Range

$115,000.00 - $135,000.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.


Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in theBenefits Guidebook.

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