Assistant Director of Finance & Administration Harvard Kennedy School

Assistant Director of Finance & Administration

Harvard Kennedy School

64536BR

Position Description

The Assistant Director of Finance and Administration holds a pivotal role within the Taubman Center's team, reporting to the Senior Director of Finance and Administration. This position is responsible for providing comprehensive financial, budgeting, operational, and administrative support for the Center.

It requires proactive identification and action on strategic needs and opportunities, adept execution of recurring tasks, and flexibility to accommodate additional requests within tight deadlines. This role demands both independent work and collaboration within a team setting, emphasizing excellent communication, organizational prowess, problem-solving skills, and business acumen.

Close interaction with faculty, staff, fellows, and students is integral to the position.

Position Responsibilities:

Finance:

• Independently approve financial transactions for the Taubman Center, including the Government Performance Lab (GPL) and the Rappaport Institute for Greater Boston, encompassing invoices, reimbursements, vouchers, credit card expense reports, and other accounts payable and receivables utilizing Harvard's online systems.
• Establish and implement procedures for financial transactions, ensuring adherence to University, HKS, and Center policies and procedures, resolving discrepancies, and recommending remedial measures as necessary.
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• Provide financial analysis and modeling to support the Center and its affiliates, including monthly, quarterly, and annual budget tracking for strategic planning and decision-making.
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• Prepare complex financial reports, analyze data using query tools, and collaborate on the annual budget planning process.
• Oversee financial processes related to board memberships, donations, payroll budget, and special projects such as financial audits.

Human Resources:

• Manage Taubman Center fellows' hires and extensions, advising on hiring procedures, completing required forms, and coordinating the I9 process.
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• Collaborate on employee engagement opportunities, supporting recruitment, onboarding, and exit processes.
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• Process hiring and personnel transactions, including staff appointments across multiple grants and funding sources.

Administration and Operations:

• Oversee the Center's operations regarding information technology and facilities management.
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• Collaborate on operational best practices for data sharing and implement staff training on financial applications and Harvard systems.
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• Lead strategic utilization of Salesforce to enhance operations and programs.
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• Maintain a fiscal master calendar for important deadlines and milestones.
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• Provide oversight support as needed.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience required.
• Minimum of 5 years' relevant work experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Strong organizational and project management capabilities, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team, manage multiple assignments, and prioritize effectively.
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• Proven ability to handle sensitive data with discretion, maintain exceptional attention to detail, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Creative problem-solving skills, interest in identifying operational efficiencies, and implementing innovative ideas.
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• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills.
• Ability to manage regular and unexpected deadlines independently.
• High level of maturity, empathy, and ability to build strong relationships.
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• Strong accounting, budgeting, analytical, and management skills.
• Experience with higher education financial and administration software, Salesforce preferred.
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• Working Conditions: Work is performed in an office setting.

Additional Information:

• Term appointment ending one year from the date of hire, with possibility of renewal.
• Hybrid position based in Cambridge, MA, requiring in-person work on campus at least three days per week during the academic year.

Salary Range: $74,200 - $126,200

Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, health and welfare, retirement, tuition assistance, professional development, commuting and transportation options, and Harvard facilities access.

EEO Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Pre-Employment Screening: Identity verification required.

For more details, visit Harvard Kennedy School’s website.