Sponsored Programs Director: Contracts & Partnerships

MSU Careers Recent Jobs; East Lansing (MI); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan State University is seeking a Sponsored Programs Assistant Director to lead drafting, negotiation, and execution of contracts with for-profit sponsors, ensuring alignment with MSU policies and regulatory standards.

This hybrid role requires at least two in-office days per week and occasional travel, with collaboration across research administration, finance, and compliance partners. The position reports to the Executive Director of MSU Business Connect.

Qualifications

• Four-year college degree in Accounting, Business or Administration.
• Five to eight years in contract negotiation and supervision.
• Juris Doctor preferred, with contract-law exposure.

Responsibilities

• Lead drafting, negotiation, and execution of contracts and subcontracts.
• Direct a team responsible for contract development and compliance.
• Collaborate with internal units and external partners to secure compliant agreements.

Skills

MS Office

Communication

Negotiation

Leadership

Collaboration

Organizational skills

Prioritization

MS Teams

Adobe

Zoom

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business or Administration

Juris Doctor (preferred)

Tools

MS Office Suite

Adobe

Zoom

Teams

Job description

Michigan State University is seeking a Sponsored Programs Assistant Director to lead drafting, negotiation, and execution of contracts with for-profit sponsors, ensuring alignment with MSU policies and regulatory standards.

This hybrid role requires at least two in-office days per week and occasional travel, with collaboration across research administration, finance, and compliance partners. The position reports to the Executive Director of MSU Business Connect.