Senior Strategic Business Manager for Academic Research

Duke University; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 80,000 - 159,000; Full time

Job summary

Duke University’s Department of Biomedical Engineering in Durham, NC seeks a Senior Business Manager to guide operational, financial, and administrative strategy. You will partner with the Chair to shape budgeting, staffing, and resource plans for a leading, research-intensive department.

The role supports faculty, researchers, staff, trainees, and students, driving efficiency, compliance, and innovative administrative practices across Duke and Duke Health.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, accounting, finance or closely related field.
• Minimum of eight years of progressively responsible administrative management experience.
• Experience in financial management, budgeting, personnel supervision, and leadership in complex operations.
• Master’s degree may substitute for two years of required experience.

Responsibilities

• Strategic leadership and executive partnership with department chair and leadership team.
• Lead budgeting, forecasting, financial planning, reporting, and resource allocation.
• Direct administrative operations to improve efficiency and accountability.
• Oversee HR functions and workforce planning with cross‑unit collaboration.
• Oversee faculty affairs, research administration, and space coordination.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Financial management

HR leadership

Communication

Process improvement

Data analytics

Budgeting

Staff development

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in business/finance

Master's degree substitute for two years

Job description

Duke University’s Department of Biomedical Engineering in Durham, NC seeks a Senior Business Manager to guide operational, financial, and administrative strategy. You will partner with the Chair to shape budgeting, staffing, and resource plans for a leading, research-intensive department.

The role supports faculty, researchers, staff, trainees, and students, driving efficiency, compliance, and innovative administrative practices across Duke and Duke Health.