Assistant Director- Grant and Accounting

Position: Assistant Director- Grant and Contract Accounting
## Assistant Director
- Grant and Contract Accounting Apply locations:
Seattle, WAtime type:
Full time posted on:
Posted Todaytime left to apply:
End Date:
July 5, 2026 (8 days left to apply) job requisition :
REQ
- ** Job Description**## Finance, Planning, and Budgeting (FPB) encompasses the major central financial, planning, analytical, and budgeting functions for the University of Washington, including:
* Financial Stewardship & Operations
* Institutional Analytics & Decision Support
* Budget, Policy & Strategy
* University Business Services Grant and Contract Accounting (GCA) is responsible for leading University-wide post-award research administration, providing essential services in accounting, compliance analysis, invoicing, and financial reporting to both internal and external stakeholders. GCA ensures effective and accurate management of research funding, supports institutional compliance, and facilitates financial transparency across the University of Washington.

The
** Assistant Director
** is responsible for implementing strategic initiatives and overseeing operational processes within Grant and Contract Accounting. This role manages a team of twenty, including four direct reports, and ensures the effective execution of post-award research administration activities, including accounting, compliance, invoicing, and financial reporting for the University. This position contributes to the development and implementation of GCA’s strategic direction, ensures adherence to departmental and institutional policies, and plays a key role in maintaining organizational effectiveness across a complex, high volume administrative environment.

The Assistant Director regularly exercises independent judgment in matters related to operational planning, resource allocation, and staff management.
*
* Key responsibilities include:

*** Implement GCA operational practices that align with the University’s goals and ensure consistent, high-quality execution across all functional areas
* Manage the recruitment, training, supervision, and professional development of staff to maintain a skilled, effective and engaged team
* Directly oversee customer service activities, training programs, campus outreach efforts, and the management of escalated issues from internal and external stakeholders
* Serve as a subject matter expert in Workday stabilization initiatives, supporting successful system integration, ensuring operational continuity, and overseeing accounting compliance across post-award research accounting
* Collaborate with the Director on long‐range planning, policy development, and assessment of emerging issues affecting research administration operations across the university
* Ensure compliance with federal, state, and University regulations by developing and enforcing internal controls, monitoring systems, and operational standards
*
* Duties and Responsibilities:

**** Leadership / Team Management
*** Lead and develop a team of post‐award grants and contracts professionals, providing coaching, performance management, and strategic direction in a complex, matrixed environment
* Oversee operational workflows, aligning priorities, training, and staff development to ensure consistent, high‐quality service delivery
* Drive continuous improvement by setting program goals, monitoring key milestones, and adjusting strategies to achieve successful outcomes
* Resolve escalated issues promptly and serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on operational risks, staffing needs, and strategic priorities
* Ensure adherence to institutional policies, interpreting and implementing guidance to strengthen organizational effectiveness and accountability
** Accounting and Program Management
*** Lead post‐award financial administration by ensuring compliance with federal, state, sponsor, and institutional regulations, and coordinating audits to resolve complex financial issues
* Design, implement, and monitor robust internal control frameworks that safeguard assets, ensure accurate reporting, and maintain compliance with GAAP and University policy
* Evaluate and refine reconciliation and accounting processes, identifying gaps and implementing…