Job Information
Colorado State University Director of Strategic Financial Planning and Resource Management in Fort Collins, Colorado
Job Description
Position Summary
Position provides financial oversight, reporting, and high level expense approval for the VP for Research division. Position supports campus wide activities such as managing F&A processes, overseeing the Master Lease program for campus, and commitment funding. Position oversees a staff of approximately 8 departmental accounting and finance positions.
To learn more about the VP of Research, visit: https://www.research.colostate.edu/
Full Consideration Date
For full consideration, please apply by 4/22/26.
Essential Job Duties
As a member of the Leadership Committee for the Research Division, this position provides input on fiscal policy and deployment of resources to achieve strategic goals.
Positions executes oversight to assure substantive compliance with all applicable fiscal regulations, policies and procedures including federal, state, and University and other sponsoring institutions. Position is responsible for the fair presentation of financial information for the division and for conformity with university Financial policies, accounting principles, and sponsor/donor stipulations and restrictions. Financial oversight includes 200+ accounts, multiple sub-funds including Unrestricted Funds, Auxiliary and Self-Funded Funds (Auxiliary, Enterprise, General operations, Recharge, and WIP accounts), and Restricted Funds (Agency funds, Gift funds, and Sponsored Programs accounts), and budget and funding allocations.
Position manages the F&A Calculation and Distribution process for campus. ($85M).
Position creates and reviews financial related MOU’s for division and is responsible for maintaining oversight and management of the MOU’s to include funding calculations and renewals.
Responsible for developing and deploying sustainable budget approaches to meet VPR priorities and oversees the proper classification of financial activity for the division including periodic review of budget to actual expenditures and confirmation of fund balances.
Provides ad hoc reports on strategic initiatives as needed for presentation to CAAG (College and Administration Advisory Group) CRAD (College Research Associate Deans) [P1] and research constituents both internal and external to CSU. Monitor trends, analyze data and compile reports and financial projections including Sponsored Programs annual research expenditures and indirect cost recoveries.
Supervision
- 8 Total FTE supervised
Conditions of Employment
Pre-Employment Background Check
The standard workday for this position is 8 to 5, but the successful candidate may have to work irregular hours and weekends as needed to manage the requirements of this position.
Minimum Qualifications
A Bachelor’s degree in financial management, business, accounting or related area.
At least five years of combined experience coordinating strategic planning, implementation, and assessment, auditing, accounting and information systems and/or other related accounting and administration fields.
At least three years of experience working within a complex organizational structure including functional management of, and/or facilitation with, primary administrative functions including budgets, accounting, human resources and information technology
At least five years of supervision experience.
Working knowledge of Cost Accounting Standards, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, internal controls, and applicable federal and state regulations.
Demonstrated project management skills and managing multiple complex projects.
Preferred Qualifications
An advanced degree (e.g., MBA, J.D.) and/or professional certificate (e.g., CPA, CMA).
Experience in a senior administrative management role.
Five or more years’ experience in a research enterprise setting in higher education.
Power BI experience.
Compliance/regulatory background/experience.
Working knowledge of Federal Uniform Guidance and related compliance requirements.
Analytical abilities, including the use of statistical techniques, financial modeling and data management.
Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel and data mining tools.
Experience in an institution of higher education or government.
An understanding of fund accounting and governmental accounting standards (GASB).
An understanding of the institution’s financial procedure instructions and the knowledge to direct, enter and/or approve transactions on the University’s financial system.
Salary Range
$155,000 to $180,000
Required Application Documents
To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.
Cover Letter, Resume/CV
Employee Benefits
Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.
Review our detailed benefits information here. (http://hr.colostate.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/25/2021/01/benefits-summary-afap.pdf)
Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.
For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator. (http://hr.colostate.edu/total-compensation-calculator/)
Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!
Background Check Policy Statement
Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.
EEO
Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Inspired by its land-grant heritage, Colorado State University is committed to excellence and engagement, setting the standard for public research universities in teaching, research, service and extension for the benefit of the citizens of Colorado, the United States, and the world.
Prospective Employees, click here to learn more about CSU's perks and purpose. (https://hr.colostate.edu/prospective-employees/)
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