Director of Financial Administration and Operations

Department PSD Data Science:
Systems Administration

About the Department The Data Science Institute (DSI) executes the University of Chicago's bold, innovative vision of Data Science as a new discipline. The DSI seeds research on the interdisciplinary frontiers of this emerging field, forms partnerships with industry, government, and social impact organizations, and supports holistic data science and AI education. The staff in the Data Science Institute support the University's students and scholars, their shared ideals, and the core values that make the University a singular intellectual destination.

The Data Science Institute (DSI) is seeking a talented and experienced Director of Financial Administration and Operations to provide strategic financial leadership and analysis to support the programs and initiatives of the institute and oversee operations. Reporting to the Chief of Staff, the Director of Financial Administration and Operations oversees all department wide financial operations and DSI facilities. This includes budgeting, financial planning and reporting, procurement, revenue generation, and ensures effective and efficient departmental operations and to advance DSI priorities.

This role collaborates closely with DSI leadership and operational teams to ensure effective financial management and decision-making.

• Manages the operations team and oversees the institute's daily operations and space planning.
• Manages the budget process for facilities, including budget forecasting, development, management and reporting.
• Oversees the development of short- and long-range plans for facility development, maintenance and expansion to support the needs and goals of the institute.
• Evaluates and reviews operating practices and processes for their effectiveness and efficiency on an ongoing basis.
• Establishes and implements guidelines and procedures for departmental reporting to ensure compliance and streamline processes within the university's financial systems.
• Leads the development and coordination of financial planning and reporting, including the creation of financial models to support decision-making within the department's leadership.
• Prepares financial statements, activity reports, and forecasts, providing direction on budgeting and accounting responsibilities, with a focus on optimizing use of the financial platforms.
• Collaborates with DSI leadership and budget managers to provide budget guidance, spending analysis, and revenue projections, utilizing expertise in the institution's financial systems.
• Provides financial input based on the development of data collection, metrics, reports and other analytical applications.
• Serves as an experienced liaison interacting with financial administrators within operational units on financial, budget or accounting matters to prepare, advise and recommend.
• Conducts quantitative and qualitative analyses to monitor and manage for expense optimization by identifying market drivers, enhance strategies, or improve revenue generation.
• Stays updated on University procedures, system updates, and compliance requirements, particularly within the financial systems landscape.
• Works in collaboration with the University’s Research Administration team and the PSD Local Business Center to administer, track, and manage DSI's grants and contractual obligations.
• Reviews accounts to identify inconsistencies and recommend strategies to address financial issues, leveraging an understanding of both legacy and new financial systems.
• Represents the institute's financial interests in interactions with internal and external stakeholders, including the Local Budget Office, Financial Services Office, and the PSD's Budget and Finance team while utilizing…