Senior Manager, Indirect Cost Management

Location: Northridge

At Areté, we are on the forefront of developing innovative solutions, with great minds from all backgrounds, to help solve the nation's most complex security challenges. We strive for an inclusive, collaborative team environment that approaches differences as opportunities for innovation and excellence. As an employee-owned company, we foster an atmosphere that propels diverse career opportunities and professional growth.

Discover your future with us.

The Senior Manager, Indirect Cost Management will lead planning, analysis, administration, and oversight of key company wide indirect financial activities. This role partners broadly across Finance, HR, Operations, and Executive Leadership to ensure accuracy, transparency, and strategic financial support for indirect cost structures, employee benefit programs, equity administration, and corporate insurance. The ideal candidate brings strong analytical capabilities, operational discipline, and the ability to influence cross-functional leaders.

This is an exempt, full-time position that may be based out of our Tucson, AZ;
Falls Church, VA;
Niwot, CO; or Northridge, CA offices.

Key Responsibilities:

• Builds, leads and mentors a high-performing indirect finance team; establishes clear goals, manages performance, and develops succession and growth plans.
• Lead Indirect Rates Planning and Analysis, including rate modeling, forecasting, scenario assessments, and compliance with internal and external requirements.
• Develop and maintain Indirect Cost Dashboards, delivering real-time visibility into trends, performance drivers, and operational impacts.
• Own General & Administrative (G&A) investment planning and tracking, ensuring alignment with annual operating plans and long-range strategic objectives.
• Oversee ESOP and 401(k) administration, collaborating with HR and external providers to ensure accuracy, compliance, and participant support.
• Manage Stock and Options Administration, including equity grant processing, cap table maintenance, reporting, and coordination with accounting and compensation teams.
• Direct Company wide Insurance programs, including policy renewals, claims management, broker relationships, and annual risk assessments.
• Prepare and present financial insights, risk analysis, and recommendations to senior leadership.
• Drive process improvements, strengthen internal controls, and enhance data accuracy across all indirect-related financial processes.
• Support audits, regulatory filings, and compliance activities across assigned areas.

We have an impressive range of benefits, programs, and perks that we offer:

Health & Wellness:

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Life and Long-Term Disability (LTD)
• Vision Reimbursement
• Fitness Reimbursement

Financial:

• Company-funded 5% contribution to your 401(k) retirement plan
• Company-funded 5% contribution to your Employee Stock Ownership Plan
• Continuing Education Funds

Work-Life Balance:

• Flexible Scheduling
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Parental and Bereavement Leave

What We Value:

• Creativity and innovation in solving challenges
• Integrity and responsibility in all actions
• Collaboration across teams and specialties
• Responsiveness in fast-paced environments
• Passion for national security and excellence

Experiences and Background We Look For (Required Skills):

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field.
  • 8+ years of progressive experience in financial planning & analysis, indirect cost management, cost accounting, or related fields.
• Experience with employee benefit administration (ESOP/401k), equity management, or corporate insurance programs.
  • Advanced proficiency in financial modeling, forecasting, and dashboard/analytics tools.
• Strong understanding of indirect cost structures and associated regulatory considerations.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to interface across all levels of the organization.

Nice to Have (Preferred Skills):

• MBA, CPA, CMA or relevant professional certification.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and drive operational improvements.

The salary range for this role is $175,000 to $210,000; however, Arete considers several factors when extending an offer…