Finance and Research Administration Manager

Finance and Research Administration Manager Dean of Research, Stanford, California, United States – Finance – Post Date:
Nov 12, 2025 – Requisition #: 107724

Stanford University’s Center for International Security and Cooperation (CISAC), within the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies (FSI), is one of the nation’s leading research centers devoted to addressing the most pressing international security problems. Through the production of policy-relevant research, teaching and training of the next generation of security scholars and leaders, and advice to and engagement with policy makers, CISAC seeks to build a safer world.

CISAC is seeking an experienced Finance and Research Administration Manager to oversee the Center’s financial and grants portfolio. Reporting to the Associate Director for Administration and Finance, this role manages all aspects of CISAC’s financial operations and research administration activities. The Finance and Research Administration Manager contributes to budget development and forecasts for the Center, ensures compliance with university policies and external regulations, and applies financial best practices to support strategic decision-making.

The position also oversees the preparation of budgets for grant proposals and manages post‑award financial reporting for grants, contracts, program projects, and federal awards.

• Participate with principal investigators in the preparation of the administrative components of proposals within parameters of sponsored and non-sponsored research guidelines. Oversee and communicate the submission process, both paper and electronic; review documents for completeness and compliance.
• Develop, prepare, and finalize project budgets, and provide budget justification.
• Serve as liaison and active partner between principal investigators, Office of Sponsored Research, research groups, and other departments; respond to sponsor inquiries.
• Collaborate with Office of Sponsored Research to ensure awards are set up properly and cost-sharing requirements are fulfilled; initiate cost transfers.
• Review and approve expenditures, advise on post‑award spending and commitment activity, and oversee compliance related to fund and revenue.
• Develop and communicate reports supporting project status; create effective forecasting and decision aides.
• Participate in contract closeout process; submit final reports and certificates. Compile information and documents needed for audit inquiries.
• Understand, apply, and advise on university and government policies for projects.
• Serve as a resource on subject area and overall technical resource to principal investigators and other university staff.
• Participate in and contribute to process improvements. Lead other staff in group projects.
• May participate as a mentor and provide cross‑training as needed.

Bachelor’s degree and three years of job-related experience, or a combination of education and relevant experience.

• Basic knowledge of governmental regulations.
• Ability to understand, interpret, and communicate policies and procedures.
• Excellent oral, written, and communication skills.
• Excellent analytical skills; demonstrated proficiency in Excel and web-based tools.
• Strong accounting skills; knowledge of accounting principles.
• Ability to complete Cardinal Curriculum I and II within the first year in role.
• Knowledge of procurement needs, including sole‑sourcing, cost analyses, vendor requirements, and small business reporting.
• Knowledge of property management requirements related to Stanford or non‑Stanford title of equipment and fabrications.
• Competency in project management.
• Extreme attention to detail.
• Ability to work well independently, but also to seek or offer assistance when needed.
• Ability to review a proposal or manage a project with understanding of the overall scope and goal of each sponsored project.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.

• Cardinal Curriculum I and II must be completed to remain in this position.
• Certified Accountant or Auditor or similar…