Senior Director, Financial Operations & Strategy

University of Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 187,000 - 232,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Chicago seeks an experienced finance leader responsible for budget, accounting, and billing activities across the VP Operations umbrella. You will develop annual and long-range budgets, monitor performance, and ensure GAAP compliance while advising university decision-makers.

You will also oversee internal controls, chart of accounts, and recharge administration, serving as a key liaison to CFO’s Office and Budget Office. Strong leadership and communication are essential.

Qualifications

• College or university degree in a related field.
• Knowledge and skills developed through 10+ years in a related discipline.
• Preferred: master’s degree or higher and relevant certifications.

Responsibilities

• Leads annual and long-range operating budgets for all VP Operations entities.
• Prepares forecasts, analyzes variances, and ensures targets are met.
• Oversees long-range funding models and recommends improvements.
• Stewards capital budgets for ITS and DSS with project lifecycle oversight.
• Establishes standards, policies, and internal controls for financial management.
• Ensures GAAP compliance including revenue recognition and accruals.
• Oversees year-end close, reviews transactions, and responds to audits.
• Maintains chart of accounts and manages recharge guidelines and billing.
• Performs rate analyses and evaluates recharge-related assets.

Skills

Financial analysis

Forecasting

Recharge administration

Strategic planning

Staff development

Change management

Decision making

Stakeholder engagement

Written communication

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Master’s degree or higher

Job description

The University of Chicago seeks an experienced finance leader responsible for budget, accounting, and billing activities across the VP Operations umbrella. You will develop annual and long-range budgets, monitor performance, and ensure GAAP compliance while advising university decision-makers.

You will also oversee internal controls, chart of accounts, and recharge administration, serving as a key liaison to CFO’s Office and Budget Office. Strong leadership and communication are essential.