Director of Post Award, Sponsored Research Administration

Sponsored Research Administration within the Office of Research seeks to fill the position of Director of Post Award.

This position provides strategic leadership for and oversight of Sponsored Research Administration – Post Award and  Cost & Data Management teams including but not limited to: supervision and training/cross-training for staff; post-award modifications; completion of  sub-recipient risk monitoring, and invoice submission in alignment with sponsor and/or Uniform Grant Regulations; fiscal review of expenditures for reasonableness and accuracy, institutional commitments (fiscal), securing appropriate internal reviews and approvals; invoicing and collections; submission of interim and final financial reports; FSU response to all internal and external audits; cash management (LOC) drawdowns and reconciliation, indirect costs negotiations; preparation of reports on productivity of the research enterprise, and data quality assurance.

This position facilitates and advance research and sponsored project activities through various efforts to include but not limited to promoting SRA as a customer-oriented department; increasing the collegiality between SRA and the campus community; and reviewing and analyzing policies, procedures, and practices with a goal of automating and streamlining and/or reducing administrative burdens to the extent possible. Participate in and lead efforts to deliver and continually improve research and sponsored project related training and educational opportunities for faculty, students and staff.

This position keeps abreast of changing regulations to ensure fiscal compliance with sponsor and institutional policies, procedures, and regulatory guidance. Troubleshoot issues with federal, state, and local agencies which are problematic to the administration of sponsored projects. Develop and implement policies as needed for prudent management practices, compliance and accountability relative to sponsored projects administration such as 2 CFR 200, FAR and other state and sponsor regulations. Analyze, interpret and disseminate to the campus community information relative to federal, state, and sponsor regulations to ensure institutional compliance and consult with faculty, staff and administrators regarding compliance and other procedural issues. Provide expertise, guidance and leadership to academic and administrative senior management on compliance and sponsored research administration matters.  Build strong relationships with campus administrators, faculty and staff; and work in partnership with other University offices to enhance the institution's research enterprise.

Responsible for ensuring the development and operation of appropriate management information systems and databases that are adequate for the administration of post-award activities for the University's research and sponsored project activities including the implementation of new tools to automate office functions. Develop relationships with federal, state, and sponsor representatives and participate in professional development activities and organizations to keep abreast of changes and updates regarding sponsor requirements. Responsible for the formulation and administration of the annual operating budget for SRA Post Award and ensuring appropriate expenditure of all funds allocated. Performs other duties as assigned as it relates to post-award activities

Masters degree and five years of experience or a Bachelor’s degree and seven years of experience.

At least four years of experience in leadership of a post award department is preferred

CRA, CPRA, CFRA, or comparable professional certification is preferred.

Significant and progressively responsible leadership experience in sponsored research administration with a substantial emphasis on post-award administration.

Experience within a large, complex research-intensive university environment, preferably a Carnegie R1 institution.

Demonstrated expertise with federal regulations governing sponsored projects, including Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200) and Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), as well as related sponsor requirements and state regulations.

Experience leading audit responses, financial compliance programs, cost analysis activities, and institutional policy development.

Proven success leading organizational change, process improvement initiatives, and technology-enabled operational enhancements.

Experience supervising large teams and developing high-performing staff.

All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as separate documents, a CV or resume and a letter of interest addressing the themes in this profile.

WittKieffer is assisting Florida State University in this search. Applications will be received until the position is filled. We strongly encourage candidates submit their materials as soon as possible for full consideration. 

Nominations and inquiries can be directed to:

Jessica Herrington, Robert Springall, and Roxana Woudstra at [email protected].

One of the nation's elite research universities, Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts and critical thinking. Founded in 1851, Florida State University is the oldest continuous site of higher education in Florida. FSU is a community steeped in tradition that fosters research and encourages creativity. At FSU, there’s the excitement of being part of a vibrant academic and professional community, surrounded by people whose ideas are shaping tomorrow’s news!

Learn more about Florida State University and our campuses. 

FSU offers a robust Total Rewards package. Visit our FSU Total Rewards website to learn more about our Compensation, Benefits, Wellness, Recognition, and Employee Development programs.

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If qualified and interested in a specific job opening as advertised, apply through the FSU Careers site (jobs.fsu.edu). If you are a current FSU employee, apply through myFSU Self Service.

Applicants are required to complete the online application with all applicable information. Applications must include all work history up to ten years, and education details even if attaching a resume.

This is an A&P position.

This position requires successful completion of a criminal history background check.

FSU is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.