Strategic Assistant Director, Grant & Contract Accounting

University of Washington; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 96,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Washington is seeking an Assistant Director for Grant and Contract Accounting (GCA) to guide post-award financial administration, accounting, compliance, invoicing, and reporting. You will lead a 20-person team, supervise four direct reports, and collaborate with campus stakeholders to ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance across high-volume operations.

This role requires senior leadership, strategic planning, and a deep understanding of GAAP and university policy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree as specified with relevant work experience.
• Demonstrated leadership/management experience in grants or contracts.
• Experience with governmental fund accounting and complex portfolios.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to foster collaboration across diverse teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead post-award financial administration ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Design and monitor internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure GAAP reporting.
• Provide data-driven financial analysis and guidance to leadership.
• Oversee recruitment, training, and professional development of staff.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to improve financial processes and accountability.
• Drive system integration initiatives to enhance data integrity and reporting capabilities.

Skills

Leadership / Management

Analytical abilities

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Public Administration, or related field

Master's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Public Administration

Tools

Workday Finance

Accounting software

Job description

University of Washington is seeking an Assistant Director for Grant and Contract Accounting (GCA) to guide post-award financial administration, accounting, compliance, invoicing, and reporting. You will lead a 20-person team, supervise four direct reports, and collaborate with campus stakeholders to ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance across high-volume operations.

This role requires senior leadership, strategic planning, and a deep understanding of GAAP and university policy.