Grants Accounting Assistant Director - Military Veterans

Department Name: 3A600:Research Financial Services

Job Summary:

About Research Financial Services:
Research Financial Services plays a critical role in advancing the university's research mission by ensuring the financial integrity and compliance of all externally sponsored projects, including grants and contracts. Our mission is to facilitate the effective management of sponsored funds in alignment with federal, state, and institutional guidelines, supporting groundbreaking research initiatives.

About the Role:
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented professional to contribute to the management of a rapidly expanding research portfolio in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will have expertise in Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Grants ( SEFA ) preparation, federal grant compliance, and leading the Single Audit process. They will collaborate with auditors, strengthen internal controls, and implement corrective actions to mitigate financial risks.

This role focuses on enhancing financial tracking systems, automating processes, and ensuring data integrity. Strong analytical skills, advanced Excel proficiency, and familiarity with financial management systems are essential. The candidate must be adept at interpreting complex regulations, driving compliance initiatives, and fostering a culture of accountability. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills are crucial for effective collaboration.

Key Responsibilities:

• Partner with external auditors, finance teams, university departments, and sponsoring agencies to resolve audit findings and improve financial controls.
• Lead initiatives to optimize financial tracking systems, automate processes, and enhance data integrity.
• Provide strategic leadership in staff development, process improvements, and financial system enhancements to streamline sponsored projects accounting operations.
• Ensure efficient, transparent financial reporting and compliance with evolving regulatory requirements.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to drive meaningful improvements in research financial management, support innovation, and contribute to the university's research excellence. This position is eligible for a hybrid schedule upon completion of orientation period.

Opportunities for Growth:

• Leadership Development: The role offers opportunities to lead and mentor a team, providing valuable experience in leadership and management.
• Skill Enhancement: Continuous learning through implementing the latest federal regulations, financial systems, and compliance best practices.
• Career Advancement: Exposure to high-level financial and compliance operations can pave the way for career advancement within the university.
• Networking: Collaborating with various departments and external auditors provides a platform to build a strong professional network.
• Innovation and Creativity: Leading special projects and process improvement initiatives encourages innovative thinking and creative problem-solving.

Skills /Knowledge/Abilities:

Proficiency with financial systems (e.g., SAP, Workday, or other ERP systems) and advanced Excel skills for data analysis and reporting; strong familiarity with audit processes, both internal and external, and the ability to coordinate and manage audits effectively; excellent staff development, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Position Time Status: Full-Time

Required Education:

BA

Required Related Experience:

6 yrs

Required License/Registration/Certification :

None.

Preferred Education/Experience:

Minimum 5-7 years of total experience in accounting, audit, audit coordination, or financial compliance; staff management; and CPA a plus.

University Community of Inclusion:

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we strongly encourage veterans, individuals with disabilities, women, and all minorities to consider our employment opportunities.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.