Manager, Sponsored Projects Accounting and Reporting

The Manager of Sponsored Projects Accounting and Reporting supports the tactical, strategic, and operational objectives of SPFO regarding externally funded projects.

About the role

Reporting directly to the Senior Director of Sponsored Projects Financial Operations (SPFO), the Manager of Sponsored Projects Accounting and Reporting directs day-to-day accounting and reporting operations, including centralized sponsor billing, financial reporting and closeout processes ensuring compliance with the terms of the awards and applicable laws, regulations and university policies.

Responsibilities

• Operational Oversight& Technical Review: directs day-to-day accounting and reporting operations, including centralized sponsor billing, financial reporting and closeout processes ensuring compliance with the terms of the awards and applicable laws, regulations and university policies
• Leadership, Matrix Coordination & Customer Service: Provides operational leadership and functional oversight for the SPFO Financial Analysts team, supporting coordinated sponsored billing, reporting, and closeout activities across SPFO. Serves as a key resource to faculty, principal investigators, Senior Business Manger, Finance staff and departmental staff while partnering with leadership to improve workflow efficiency, operational coordination, and staff development and process optimization.
• Quality Assurance, Continuity & Audit Assistance: Maintains hands-on operational expertise through direct management of complex sponsored awards while supporting quality assurance, cross-training, business continuity, audit readiness, and sponsor review activities across SPFO.
• Financial System Management: Ensure financial related information is accurately accounted for and proper documentation is maintained within the University’s Financial System, including the review and approval of award setup and modification requests.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree required. Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Certified Financial Research Administrator (CFRA) or Certified Research Administrator (CRA) designation preferred but not required.
• Practical Experience (years Needed And Type Required): Five to seven years of relevant experience in sponsored projects accounting, financial reporting, or grants management, preferably in a higher education or research institution setting.
• Strong understanding of Federal regulations and compliance requirements related to sponsored projects.
• Exceptional organizational skills, high attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining data integrity under tight operational deadlines.
• Strong analytical, financial tracking, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify systemic errors and propose operational solutions.
• Effective oral and written communication skills, paired with strong interpersonal capabilities to work collaboratively with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Knowledge of OMB Uniform Guidance, federal agency, and external sponsor accounting and reporting requirements.
• Knowledge of complex accounting system, WorkDay preferred.