Job Description:

• Collaborates with the Dean and other senior leaders to develop and execute long-term strategic plans for The College. Provides financial and administrative insights to support decision-making and ensure alignment between financial resources and strategic priorities.
• Provides strategic leadership for the daily operations of a major organizational unit, primarily in the areas of financial/budgetary planning, purchasing, grants, facilities, human resources, and support services management.
• Establishes policies and protocols to enhance the central pedagogical mission and operational goals of unit and oversees their implementation.
• Develops and implements multi-year financial strategies and policies to support The Collegeâ™s mission and goals. Provides guidance and expertise in budget planning, financial forecasting, resource allocation, and financial analysis. Monitors financial performance, identifies areas for improvement, and recommends strategies for cost optimization and revenue generation. Responsible for budgetary projections and overall budget management for the fiscal year, including day to day operations.
• Ensures compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and University policies. Develops and maintains effective internal controls and risk management practices to safeguard assets, mitigate risks, and maintain the integrity of financial and administrative operations.
• Leads and manages the administrative functions of The College, including human resources, facilities management, information technology, procurement, expenditures and other operational areas. Develops and implements administrative policies and procedures to enhance efficiency, compliance, and operational effectiveness.
• With the Director of Administrative Services, oversees human resources activities for all unit academic and staff employees, including hiring, orientation, performance planning and compensation, staff development, and employee relations.
• Collaborates with faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders to understand their needs and priorities. Fosters strong working relationships and effective communication channels to address concerns, provide guidance, and ensure a positive and supportive environment.
• Oversees facilities management, including renovations, moves, maintenance and ongoing facilities operations.
• Oversees informational technology planning, ensuring necessary operating and information systems and resources are in place to accomplish strategic goals.
• Serves as high-level representative for a unit and structures the framework for partnership development with other academic, research, and administrative units within the unit and of the University.
• Manages employees through senior managers. Oversees the development of performance goals, establishes the structure for allocating resources and assessing division or University policies.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience:

• Working for a large, complex organization.
• Familiarity with academic research and educational programs is advantageous.
• Experience in at least one of the following: financial, administrative, human resources, and/or facilities.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Proficiency in Mac and PC environments.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, Outlook, and online organizational tools.
• Knowledge of Workday or similar human resources information systems.
• Knowledge and experience working with Oracle, the Universityâ™s budget tool.

Preferred Competencies

• Financial Management - demonstrated expertise in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation. Analyze financial data, identify trends, and make informed decisions to optimize financial performance.
• Strategic Thinking - strong strategic mindset with the ability to align financial and administrative functions with the overall goals and mission of the school. Capacity to contribute to the development and implementation of long-term strategic plans.
• Leadership and Management - Proven leadership skills; inspire and motivate a team. Experience in building and managing high-performing teams and fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
• Analytical Skills - exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities. Proficiency in conducting financial analysis, interpreting data, and providing actionable recommendations to support decision-making.
• Compliance and Risk Management - comprehensive understanding of compliance regulations, risk management practices, and internal controls. Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and University policies.
• Communication and Stakeholder Engagement - excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to effectively engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders. Strong relationship-building skills to foster positive working relationships with faculty, staff, students, and external partners.
• Change Management - lead and navigate change initiatives within a complex organizational structure. Adaptability and resilience to manage and drive change effectively.
• Fundraising and Development - experience in fundraising and development activities, including donor cultivation, proposal development, and securing philanthropic support for academic programs and initiatives.
• Technical Expertise - proficiency in financial accounting principles, financial systems, and relevant software applications. Familiarity with technology systems and tools used in administrative functions.
• Stress Resistance - maintain a calm and courteous demeanor while handling competing priorities, a heavy workload, complex problems, and tight deadlines.
• Professionalism - Handle sensitive and confidential situations and information with absolute discretion.
• Time Management/Organization - strong organizational skills with attention to detail, accuracy, and effective prioritization. 

Working Conditions

• Fast-paced office environment.
• Some evening and weekend work.
• Sit at a computer for 4-6 hours.
• Periodic travel to other campus locations.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover Letter, to include interest in position (required)
• References Contact Information (3)(required)

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via the Applicant Inquiry Form.

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.

About University of Chicago (UC)

One of the world's premier academic and research institutions, the University of Chicago has driven new ways of thinking since our 1890 founding. Today, UChicago is an intellectual destination that draws inspired scholars to our Hyde Park and international campuses, keeping UChicago at the nexus of ideas that challenge and change the world.

Connections working at University of Chicago (UC)