Executive Director of Sponsored Programs Accounting

Utah State University - Logan, UT

Full-time - Executive

Remote - Logan, UT

10,001+ employees

Educational Services

About the position

The Executive Director of the Sponsored Programs Accounting Office (SPA) at Utah State University (USU) is responsible for leading the operations and management of the SPA office, ensuring compliance with regulations for sponsored awards accounting. This role reports to the Vice President for Research and involves overseeing various processes, including the preparation of financial reports and audits, while promoting a culture of compliance within the university's research environment. The position offers flexible working arrangements, including full-time in-office or telework options.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate the preparation of the annual Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards and other related reports.
• Lead the annual Single Audit for the university.
• Ensure compliance with Department of Education requirements for federal student aid programs.
• Enhance and develop procedures for post-award research administration.
• Assist PIs and business services staff with audits and compliance engagements.
• Ensure adherence to sponsor regulations including Uniform Guidance and Federal Acquisition Regulation.
• Provide direction for interpreting OMB Uniform Guidance and Code of Federal Regulations.
• Develop and implement system enhancements for reporting and compliance efforts.
• Administer university policies related to sponsored programs and ensure effective research administration.
• Develop training programs on sponsored programs compliance issues.
• Promote compliance and ethics awareness within USU.
• Collaborate with various USU offices and external agencies to support PIs and fiscal staff.
• Provide periodic reports on sponsored program activity.
• Manage the SPA office's day-to-day operations and budget.
• Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate SPA staff.
• Serve on committees and advise senior leadership on sponsored program administration issues.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in accounting or related area.
• Five years of relevant experience in grant and contract accounting.
• Knowledge of OMB Uniform Guidance 2 CFR 200 and federal regulations for sponsored research.
• Experience leading a team.

Nice-to-haves

• Advanced degree (e.g., MBA) and/or professional certification (e.g., CRA, CFRA, CPA).
• More than 5 years of sponsored project research administration experience at a Carnegie R1 or R2 institution.
• Experience with Banner software application.

Benefits

• Commensurate salary based on experience.
• Excellent benefits package.