Strategic Program Planning & Controls Lead

Auburn University; Huntsville (AL); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Auburn University Applied Research Institute seeks a Program Planning and Control Lead in Huntsville, AL to oversee financial, operational, and administrative functions supporting ARI’s research initiatives.

The role partners with university leadership, faculty, government partners, and industry collaborators to drive budgeting, reporting, compliance, and performance analytics, ensuring projects stay on schedule and within budget.

Qualifications

• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance; CPA/MBA/CIA/CFE/CME designation.

Responsibilities

• Develops, administers, and monitors budgets for multiple projects and initiatives; manages financial operations including accounts payable, general ledger transactions, reconciliations, forecasting, and month-end close activities.
• Prepares, analyzes, and distributes monthly, quarterly, annual, and ad hoc financial and operational reports that support project leadership and data-driven decision-making.
• Coordinates the financial administration of contracts, grants, and sponsored projects, ensuring compliance with sponsor requirements, award terms, and applicable University, State, and Federal regulations.
• Supports internal and external audits by maintaining documentation, researching discrepancies, and implementing corrective actions to strengthen financial and operational controls.
• Evaluates business processes, operational workflows, and organizational practices; recommends and implements improvements that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, increase revenue opportunities, and improve overall performance.
• Collaborates with University leadership and stakeholders to develop and implement strategic initiatives, process improvements, and business solutions.
• Develops and maintains project schedules, operational plans, and performance measures to support laboratory activities, program objectives, and successful project execution.
• Analyzes financial, operational, and project performance data; develops reports, dashboards, KPIs, and metrics to identify trends, risks, opportunities, and operational efficiencies.
• Coordinates and supports program operations, special projects, events, meetings, communications, outreach activities, and business development initiatives that advance ARI's mission and strategic goals.
• Serves as a primary point of contact for tenant and stakeholder relations, addressing inquiries regarding leases, payments, services, funding opportunities, and other operational matters while fostering effective partnerships and customer service.

Skills

U.S. Citizenship

Financial analysis

Budgeting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance; CPA/MBA/CIA/CFE/CME designation

Job description

Auburn University Applied Research Institute seeks a Program Planning and Control Lead in Huntsville, AL to oversee financial, operational, and administrative functions supporting ARI’s research initiatives.

The role partners with university leadership, faculty, government partners, and industry collaborators to drive budgeting, reporting, compliance, and performance analytics, ensuring projects stay on schedule and within budget.