Grants Accounting Assistant Director

Job Title
Grants Accounting Assistant Director


Requisition Number
RE49326


Working Title
Assistant Director, Sponsored Projects Accounting & Financial Compliance


Department Name
3A600:Research Financial Services


Work Location
Lexington, KY


Grade Level
48


Salary Range
$62,941-103,834/year


Type of Position
Staff


Position Time Status
Full-Time


Required Education

BA



Click here for more information about equivalencies:
https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies


Required Related Experience

6 yrs



Required License/Registration/Certification

None.



Physical Requirements

Sittings for long periods of time.



Shift

Monday – Friday; 8:00 am-5:00 pm.



Job Summary

About Research Financial Services:
Research Financial Services plays a critical role in advancing the university’s research mission by ensuring the financial integrity and compliance of all externally sponsored projects, including grants and contracts. Our mission is to facilitate the effective management of sponsored funds in alignment with federal, state, and institutional guidelines, supporting groundbreaking research initiatives.

About the Role:
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented professional to contribute to the management of a rapidly expanding research portfolio in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will have expertise in Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Grants (SEFA) preparation, federal grant compliance, and leading the Single Audit process. They will collaborate with auditors, strengthen internal controls, and implement corrective actions to mitigate financial risks.

This role focuses on enhancing financial tracking systems, automating processes, and ensuring data integrity. Strong analytical skills, advanced Excel proficiency, and familiarity with financial management systems are essential. The candidate must be adept at interpreting complex regulations, driving compliance initiatives, and fostering a culture of accountability. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills are crucial for effective collaboration.

Key Responsibilities:

• Partner with external auditors, finance teams, university departments, and sponsoring agencies to resolve audit findings and improve financial controls.
• Lead initiatives to optimize financial tracking systems, automate processes, and enhance data integrity.
• Provide strategic leadership in staff development, process improvements, and financial system enhancements to streamline sponsored projects accounting operations.
• Ensure efficient, transparent financial reporting and compliance with evolving regulatory requirements.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to drive meaningful improvements in research financial management, support innovation, and contribute to the university’s research excellence. This position is eligible for a hybrid schedule upon completion of orientation period.

Opportunities for Growth:

• Leadership Development: The role offers opportunities to lead and mentor a team, providing valuable experience in leadership and management.
• Skill Enhancement: Continuous learning through implementing the latest federal regulations, financial systems, and compliance best practices.
• Career Advancement: Exposure to high-level financial and compliance operations can pave the way for career advancement within the university.
• Networking: Collaborating with various departments and external auditors provides a platform to build a strong professional network.
• Innovation and Creativity: Leading special projects and process improvement initiatives encourages innovative thinking and creative problem-solving.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Proficiency with financial systems (e.g., SAP, Workday, or other ERP systems) and advanced Excel skills for data analysis and reporting; strong familiarity with audit processes, both internal and external, and the ability to coordinate and manage audits effectively; excellent staff development, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.



Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
Yes


Preferred Education/Experience

Minimum 5-7 years of total experience in accounting, audit, audit coordination, or financial compliance; staff management; and CPA a plus.





Deadline to Apply
03/16/2025


Our University Community

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