A cover letter is required and should address your specific interest in the position and outline experience that directly relates to this position. Please upload your cover letter and resume into a single file.

Since 1841, the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA) has been the heart of The Michigan Difference, educating young leaders through a rich liberal arts curriculum and creating new knowledge through world-class research and scholarship. We offer more than 100-degree programs in over 75 academic departments and programs.  Learn more about LSA at http://www.lsa.umich.edu/. 

As part of the largest college at the University of Michigan, LSA Finance employs over 100 staff dedicated to providing financial, procurement, and research administration support across more than 100 units. We seek an experienced professional to join our Business Office as the Manager of Research Administration. In this pivotal role, you will oversee and direct financial and research administration operations for faculty within specified units. Responsibilities include supporting pre- and post-award activities, managing financial transactions, and overseeing research reporting. Working closely with the Director of Research Administration, you will ensure seamless operational efficiency. 

This Manager of Research Administration will lead the business office team, enhancing performance and directing staff while promoting unity amongst the team. This includes mentoring staff and instilling a culture focused on growth, positivity, accountability, and continuous advancement.  

The preferred candidate should demonstrate outstanding interpersonal skills to foster effective collaboration with colleagues across university departments, at all levels. This role requires strategic thinking, impeccable organizational abilities to handle changing priorities, and a proactive approach with a strong focus on customer service. These qualities are crucial for achieving success in this position. 

Flexible Work Arrangements 

As part of the University of Michigan's Future Work Initiative and LSA Finance's Flexible Work Arrangements, you may work either on campus or remotely. There is a requirement to come to campus as necessary throughout the year to facilitate intentional collaboration, team building, and connections. This includes times when the project or work would benefit from on-campus presence, or when requested by the customer. Any travel planning or expenses related to coming to campus are the responsibility of the employee.

Pre- and Post-Award Process Management: 

• Manage pre- and post-award processes. 
• Review research proposals for accuracy as needed and help interpret proposal guidelines. 
• Facilitate proposal and financial management meetings with faculty and administrators. 
• Review budgets for accuracy and compliance with sponsor guidelines. 
• Prepare necessary paperwork (PAFs), obtain required signatures, and submit proposals. 
• Work under pressure of deadlines and manage competing priorities. 

Financial Operations Management: 

• Manage financial operations for faculty. 
• Collaborate with Chief Administrators and LSA Finance support team. 
• Review and approve expenditures and oversee commitments. 
• Resolve billing discrepancies and conduct budget checks. 
• Allocate salaries and effort accurately, including summer salaries. 

Leadership and Supervision: 

• Lead and supervise business office staff. 
• Develop and train staff in research and financial practices. 
• Participate in recruitment, evaluations, promotions, and merit process. 
• Manage team conflicts and conduct regular meetings. 
• Promote a positive culture and high customer service standards. 

Collaboration and Customer Service: 

• Establish partnerships with unit chief administrators. 
• Collaborate effectively with co-workers. 
• Provide excellent customer service. 
• Contribute to process development and special projects. 
• Represent LSA Finance on University workgroups as needed. 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and work experience. 
• Seven years of relevant research administration experience and/or higher-level financial activities. 
• In-depth knowledge of Excel and other Office products. 
• Previous management experience, direct or functional experience. 
• Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities and deadlines. 
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

As one of the world's great liberal arts and sciences colleges, LSA pushes the boundaries of what is understood about the human experience and the natural world, and we foster the next generation of rigorous and empathetic thinkers, creators, and contributors to the state of Michigan, the nation, and the world.

To learn more about LSA's Mission, Vision and Values, please visit lsa.umich.edu/strategicvision.

Mission Statement

The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks.  Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.