Finance & Operations Director, Student Housing

Center for Public Partnerships & Research; Topeka (KS); On-site; USD 81,000 - 109,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Kansas, Housing & Residence Life, seeks a Director of Housing Finances to provide strategic leadership and financial oversight for a $50+ million auxiliary enterprise.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director partners with campus units to advance budgeting, capital planning, procurement, policy administration, and organizational compliance while guiding financial strategy and operations.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a related field with 3 years of related experience, or a bachelor’s degree with 5 years of related experience.
• Strong ability to analyze complex financial issues and present conclusions clearly.
• Minimum of three years managing multiple projects with strict deadlines.
• Two years of supervisory experience.
• Experience collaborating with senior leadership on strategic planning.
• Experience with web-based technologies and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with departmental leadership to establish and implement strategic priorities, operational plans, and organizational initiatives.
• Lead project management for major financial initiatives, including planning, coordination, documentation, timelines, and communications.
• Prepare comprehensive financial reports and presentations.
• Direct financial and business operations, including budgeting, receivables, capital planning, procurement, financial reporting, and resource allocation.
• Lead the development and administration of the annual HRL budget, including forecasting, financial analysis, and long-range planning.
• Develop room rate models and financial strategies that support operational needs and long-term financial sustainability.
• Identify and implement process improvements that enhance operational effectiveness, service delivery, and stewardship of resources.
• Develop funding strategies for capital improvement projects and provide analysis to support strategic decision-making.
• Serve as the primary liaison with University departments, affiliated entities, and external partners on financial and operational matters.
• Develop and maintain departmental policies, procedures, and internal controls supporting effective business operations.
• Interpret and apply University policies, regulatory requirements, and financial practices across the department.
• Ensure compliance with applicable University, State, and federal regulations affecting finance, purchasing, personnel, contracts, and capital projects.
• Oversee business systems, reporting processes, and operational workflows that support departmental services.
• Direct the preparation of financial, operational, bond disclosure, asset management, and other required reports.
• Monitor organizational risk and ensure sound stewardship of departmental resources.
• Supervise professional and administrative staff supporting financial, operational, and business services functions.
• Provide leadership and direction to HRL staff engaged in business and operational functions, programs, and services.
• Foster a collaborative and service-oriented environment focused on accountability, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
• Lead organizational change initiatives and implementation of business process improvements.
• Work closely with staff across Housing & Residence Life, Student Affairs, Finance Administration, and other University departments to ensure coordinated and effective finance and business operations.
• Serve on the HRL leadership team and contribute to departmental planning, goal setting, and decision-making.
• Represent HRL on University committees, work groups, and strategic initiatives.
• Advise the Executive Director on financial, operational, administrative, and organizational matters.
• Act on behalf of the Executive Director regarding business operations and administrative functions as assigned.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Financial management

Budgeting

Strategic planning

Team leadership

Policy compliance

Communication

Education

Master's degree in a related field

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

The University of Kansas, Housing & Residence Life, seeks a Director of Housing Finances to provide strategic leadership and financial oversight for a $50+ million auxiliary enterprise.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director partners with campus units to advance budgeting, capital planning, procurement, policy administration, and organizational compliance while guiding financial strategy and operations.