Director of Accounting - Sponsored Programs

About the role

The Director of Accounting – Sponsored Programs oversees financial reporting, compliance, and post-award accounting activities related to sponsored programs. This role prepares and submits the University's Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (SEFA) and State Projects to the U.S. Department of Education and the Florida Auditor General. It involves developing, implementing, and maintaining policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure compliance with Uniform Guidance, OMB regulations, grant requirements, and applicable contracts. The Director leads, supervises, and develops accounting staff, coordinates with the Office of Sponsored Research Administration, and collaborates with campus partners.

Responsibilities

• Oversee post-award accounting and financial reporting for sponsored programs, including awards from federal agencies (e.g., NASA, NSF, FAA) and state agencies (e.g., Florida Department of Education).
• Prepare, review, and process journal entries related to sponsored program activity and general ledger accounts, ensuring accuracy, proper documentation, and audit readiness.
• Compile, analyze, and deliver monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, reconciliations, and schedules for internal and external stakeholders.
• Lead, supervise, and develop accounting staff, including goal setting, performance management, coaching, training, and professional development.
• Hire, onboard, and manage performance of accounting team members.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and service delivery for internal and external customers.
• Collaborate with the Office of Sponsored Research Administration on Workday system configuration, reporting, and best practices.
• Ensure compliance with applicable financial policies, governmental regulations, contracts, grant agreements, and accounting standards.
• Prepare technical accounting position papers as needed to support complex financial interpretations or decisions.
• Serve as a subject matter expert and liaison between Accounting, Sponsored Research, Budget and Finance, and other campus stakeholders.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Required Education and Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required. Minimum of 5–10 years of related professional experience in Accounting and/or Finance.
• Skills and Experience: Higher education accounting or sponsored programs experience preferred. Strong commitment to providing excellent customer service to both internal and external stakeholders. Comprehensive knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) standards, and applicable statutory accounting principles. Knowledge of U.S. Uniform Guidance and federal grant compliance requirements. Demonstrated accounting and financial reporting experience, preferably in a complex organizational environment. Proven supervisory and team leadership experience, including staff development, coaching, and performance management. Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate across diverse audiences. Exceptional attention to detail with a strong commitment to accuracy and quality of work. Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively in a team-oriented environment. Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing demands in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel and Word; experience with Workday Financial Management preferred. Demonstrated professionalism, sound judgment, discretion, and ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.