Director of Financial Administration and Operations

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:

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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 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) 

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

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

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FLSA Status

Exempt

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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 the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.