Assistant Director, Sponsored Programs & Contracts

Michigan State University; East Lansing (MI); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan State University seeks an experienced Sponsored Programs Assistant Director to lead contract drafting, negotiation, and execution for MSU and its for-profit partners. The role ensures compliance with university policies and regulatory standards while managing a team responsible for proposal management and contract execution.

The position collaborates across regulatory, financial, and sponsored programs units, coordinating with PIs and research administrators to secure mutually

Qualifications

• Education: four-year college degree in Accounting, Business or Administration.
• Experience: five to eight years in contract negotiation, supervision and management.
• Desirable: JD and university-for-profit relations experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead drafting, negotiation, and execution of contracts and subcontracts.
• Oversee contract development team and ensure alignment with MSU policies and regulations.
• Coordinate with internal units and external sponsors to secure compliant agreements.
• Regularly communicate with faculty, research administrators, and sponsors; travel as required.

Skills

Communication

Negotiation

Leadership

Collaboration

Organizational skills

Deadline management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business or Administration

Juris Doctor (JD)

Tools

MS Office

Adobe

Zoom

Teams

Job description

Michigan State University seeks an experienced Sponsored Programs Assistant Director to lead contract drafting, negotiation, and execution for MSU and its for-profit partners. The role ensures compliance with university policies and regulatory standards while managing a team responsible for proposal management and contract execution.

The position collaborates across regulatory, financial, and sponsored programs units, coordinating with PIs and research administrators to secure mutually