Strategic Director, Sponsored Projects Office

University of California-Berkeley; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 161,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

University of California, Berkeley seeks an Executive Director for the Sponsored Projects Office (SPO) to lead pre-award and non-financial post-award contract and grant administration. The role oversees budgeting, forecasting, and the management of research portfolios, coordinating proposals, contracts, and sub-awards across campus and external sponsors.

The SPO Executive Director will lead a team of over 20 professionals, negotiate complex agreements, and ensure compliance with federal, state,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in related area or equivalent experience required.
• Advanced degree preferred.
• Strong knowledge of grants, contracts, and research administration policies.

Responsibilities

• Directly reports to the AVC RAC and oversees a staff of 20+ FTE, delegating authority for extramural funding up to $10 million in annual direct costs per agreement.
• Provide leadership and vision to a diverse team managing review, negotiation, and administration of research proposals, grants, contracts, and sub-awards.
• Represent SPO with campus leadership and external sponsors, negotiators, and collaborating institutions on policy and contracting matters.
• Develop and implement training programs for mandated requirements and improve administrative procedures for sponsored projects.
• Build relationships with deans, faculty, and campus stakeholders to understand needs and set clear service expectations.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

People management

Contract administration

Regulatory compliance

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree

Advanced degree

Job description

University of California, Berkeley seeks an Executive Director for the Sponsored Projects Office (SPO) to lead pre-award and non-financial post-award contract and grant administration. The role oversees budgeting, forecasting, and the management of research portfolios, coordinating proposals, contracts, and sub-awards across campus and external sponsors.

The SPO Executive Director will lead a team of over 20 professionals, negotiate complex agreements, and ensure compliance with federal, state,