Director of Financial Administration and Operations

About this role

Department PSD Data Science: Systems Administration About the Department The Data Science Institute (DSI) executes the University of Chicago’s bold, innovative vision of Data Science as a new discipline. The DSI seeds research on the interdisciplinary frontiers of this emerging field, forms partnerships with industry, government, and social impact organizations, and supports holistic data science and AI education. The staff in the Data Science Institute support the University’s students and scholars, their shared ideals, and the core values that make the University a singular intellectual destination. 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,   management   and reporting. 

• Oversees the development of short- and long-range plans for facility development,   maintenance   and 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 on   optimizing   use of the financial platforms.

• Collaborates with DSI leadership and budget managers to   provide   budget guidance, spending analysis, and revenue projections,   utilizing   expertise   in the institution's financial systems.

• Provides financial input based on the development of data collection, metrics,   reports   and 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 to   monitor   and   manage for   expense optimization by   identifying   market drivers, enhance strategies, or improve revenue generation.

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

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

• Reviews accounts to   identify   inconsistencies and recommend strategies to address financial issues,   leveraging   an understanding of both legacy and new financial systems.

• Represents   the institute's   financial interests   in interactions with internal and external stakeholders, including the Local Budget Office, Financial Services Office,   and the PSD’s Budget and Finance team   while   utilizing   knowledge of the organization's financial systems.

• Manages the daily operations of an organizational unit or   assists   with managing the daily operations of a larger organizational unit, primarily in the areas of financial,   purchasing , grant, facilities, human   resources   and 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: ---

Preferred Qualifications    

Education:   

• Bachelor's degree in finance, business administration, accounting, statistics, economics, or   a 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 ski

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