Stanford University is hiring a Senior Director of Finance to support the Office of the Vice Provost and Dean of Research—one of the most dynamic and impactful research enterprises in higher education.

This is a high-visibility leadership role overseeing financial strategy, planning, and operations across a ~$325M portfolio of 20+ labs, institutes, and research centers. You’ll partner with senior leadership, lead a talented finance team of 3, and help shape the future of research at one of the world’s most influential universities.

Another Source’s client, Stanford University, is recruiting a Senior Director of Finance to join their team in Stanford, California. This is a hybrid role, with an expectation of working onsite three days per week. 

Here’s a little about Stanford University and the VPDoR: 

Stanford University is seeking a Senior Director of Finance for the Office of Vice Provost and Dean of Research (VPDoR) to lead the financial planning and management for the independent labs, institutes and centers and research administrative and compliance offices within the VPDoR.  Under the direction of the Senior Associate Dean and working alongside three senior financial analysts on the team and finance leads across 20 units, the senior director develops and manages long-range budget plans that inform strategic decision-making, oversees the annual financial cycle that underpins the fiscal health of a growing and evolving organization, and facilitates compliance of financial processes and systems in accordance with university and federal policies. The ideal candidate builds strong teams and mentor talents; collaborates across function to align financial goals; translates complex data into actional insights; tell the “stories behind the numbers”; leverages automation to improve processes and reporting accuracy; identifies and mitigates financial risks; and moves beyond backward-looking reporting to influencing long-term strategy.  Learn more here: https://doresearch.stanford.edu/who-we-are/office-vice-provost-and-dean-research 

Scope & Impact: 

• Design, establish, and maintain an organizational structure and staffing to effectively accomplish the organization's goals and objectives; oversee recruitment, training, supervision, and evaluation of staff. 

• Lead, execute and communicate operational and long range budgets, forecasting and strategy; direct business operation and administration functions; may manage oversight of post award sponsored research administration and services. 

• Identify and resolve strategic problems that affect the overall functioning beyond the immediate school/unit that have potential university wide impact. 

• Make strategic decisions using complex, comprehensive analyses, high level financial modeling; provide information and context to leadership to support senior leadership decisions. 

• Provide strategy, vision and direction that have wide scope and impact, make recommendations, influence issues related to university finance and accounting policy. 

• Partner to design and establish appropriate programs to provide a strong system of internal controls to protect and steward university resources. 

• Partner across the university to determine new and ongoing business and technology initiatives. 

• Direct high-visibility process redesign and innovation projects; champion major initiatives and develop and drive implementation of project initiatives. 

• Represent the school/unit at the university level and to external constituencies. 

Qualifications: 

• Master’s degree and at least eight (8) years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and experience  

• Demonstrated leadership experience, including building and developing high-performing teams  

• Strong background in financial planning, modeling, and analysis within complex organizations  

• Advanced knowledge of financial systems (e.g., Oracle or similar platforms) and Microsoft Office Suite  

• Deep understanding of financial principles, internal controls, and compliance requirements  

• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to present complex information to diverse audiences  

• Proven ability to influence senior leadership and contribute to strategic decision-making  

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and accuracy  

• Experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced, evolving environment  

• Ability to interpret complex policies and serve as a trusted advisor to stakeholders  

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Supervisory experience in large, matrixed organizations  

• CFA or CPA certification  

Compensation & Benefits: 

The expected pay range for this position is $234,433 to $270,414 annually. 

This is a hybrid position that is expected to work onsite three days a week. 

Stanford University offers a comprehensive and highly competitive benefits package. Learn more about the full range of offerings here: 
https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards 

Stanford’s “Cardinal at Work” program highlights a holistic approach to employee well-being, including: 

• Robust retirement plans and generous time-off policies  

• Access to world-class health and wellness resources, including fitness facilities and programs  

• Tuition reimbursement and lifelong learning opportunities  

• Cultural, educational, and community engagement experiences across campus  

• Commuter programs, discounts, and additional perks  

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. 
 
Another Source works with their clients, on a retained project basis. 

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