Associate Director, Compliance & Continuous Improvement, SPFA

About the Role

The Associate Director of Compliance & Continuous Improvement in Sponsored Projects Financial Administration (SPFA) partners with the Associate Controller to streamline and modernize research financial operations. The primary focus of this role is improving how work gets done—simplifying workflows, reducing manual effort and rework, improving cycle times and consistency, and strengthening service delivery across the sponsored projects financial lifecycle.

This position leads practical process improvement and project execution across SPFA, translating operational pain points into clear improvement plans and driving implementation through completion. The Director strengthens financial compliance by embedding fit-for-purpose quality assurance and monitoring practices into day-to-day workflows, emphasizing prevention and sustainability rather than after-the-fact correction. The role also identifies and advances opportunities to leverage technology, automation, and appropriate AI-enabled solutions to improve efficiency, data quality, and operational visibility, in partnership with technical and business stakeholders.

A working understanding of grants and contracts is important to ensure process changes align with sponsor terms and sponsored award financial requirements. Success in this role depends on the ability to collaborate across teams, communicate clearly, and lead change in a complex environment. The Director oversees the compliance and continuous improvement unit, supporting staff development, cross-training, and an inclusive culture of continuous learning and improvement, while delivering measurable operational and compliance outcomes for SPFA and the broader research community.

This position requires physical presence in the office in New Haven 2 days per week.

Responsibilities

• Assist in overseeing financial systems and processes, implementing financial controls, and ensuring alignment with institutional policies and best practices related to grants.
• Continuously evaluate and enhance financial processes and systems to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and strengthen internal controls. Identify and implement best practices in sponsored projects financial administration.
• Lead and manage a team of financial analysts responsible for monitoring and reconciling project expenditures, performing financial reconciliations, QA reviews, and ensuring compliance with sponsor requirements.
• Manage accounts receivable for sponsored awards, including aging report review, tracking payments, communication with DBO and faculty, and resolving any outstanding issues or discrepancies.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with principal investigators, Department Business Offices, central offices, and other key stakeholders. Support discussions with key leaders to understand research administration goals and perspectives. Serve as a trusted advisor, providing financial expertise, guidance, and support.
• Develop data monitoring tools to help increase and ensure accuracy of research administration data.
• Develop and implement financial strategies and policies to ensure effective management of sponsored projects. Monitor funding, expenditures, and revenue to ensure compliance with sponsor requirements and optimize financial performance.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in a related field and ten years of related experience, including 3+ years of managerial experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Superior interpersonal skills.
• Strong attention to detail and follow-through with an ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Strong customer service skills and ability to work in a fast-paced team environment.
• Strong computer skills using Microsoft applications including Word and PowerPoint; advanced Excel skills.
• Ability to accurately interpret policies, procedures, regulations, and guidelines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Sponsored projects related experience in a university or non-profit environment and familiarity with database query, automation, data analytics, AI, and reporting tools.
• Prior experience with grant and contract accounting.
• Prior experience with Workday.
• Prior experience with project management.
• Prior experience conducting stakeholder training, presentations, and managing a team.

Pay

Salary range: $105,000.00 - $174,000.00

Schedule

Full time, hybrid work model (2 days per week in the office).