Finance Operations Lead for Academic Research & Grants

Harvarduniversity; Cambridge (MA); Hybrid; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous paid time off

Insurance from day one

Retirement plans with university

Wellbeing resources

Professional development

Job summary

Harvard University’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences seeks a Financial Operations Manager to lead a team handling finance, accounting, and budget operations across departments. You will supervise 10–15 associates, ensure policy compliance, and drive process improvements in collaboration with unit partners.

The role emphasizes coaching, cross-functional partnership, and delivering high-quality financial services to the university community. Hybrid work schedule and salary range discussed with HR.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience required.
• MBA or Master’s degree preferred.
• Supervisory experience required.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and advanced Excel.
• Advanced knowledge of accounting principles and tax regulations.
• Experience with financial systems and data query tools.
• CPA desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of 10–15 Finance Associates and Senior Finance Associates.
• Oversee core operational workflows and accounting transactions.
• Ensure compliance with university policies and sponsor regulations.
• Drive continuous improvement in financial operations.
• Coach and mentor staff to enhance service delivery.
• Collaborate with department admins and faculty to steward university resources.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Microsoft Office Suite

Advanced Excel

Accounting principles

Tax regulations

Financial systems

Data query tools

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

MBA or Master’s degree

Tools

Buy2Pay

Concur

CPA desirable

Job description

Harvard University’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences seeks a Financial Operations Manager to lead a team handling finance, accounting, and budget operations across departments. You will supervise 10–15 associates, ensure policy compliance, and drive process improvements in collaboration with unit partners.

The role emphasizes coaching, cross-functional partnership, and delivering high-quality financial services to the university community. Hybrid work schedule and salary range discussed with HR.