Operations Manager, IRW
American UniversityAbout the role
American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University
Department:
School of CommunicationTime Type:
Full timeWork Modality:
Hybrid 01 (On Campus 3-4 Days/Week)Union:
ExcludedJob Description:
Summary/Objective
The Operations Manager contributes to the overall success of the Investigative Reporting Workshop (IRW) by effectively overseeing all of the center’s financial, operating, and administrative activities. The incumbent maintains records and oversight regarding the Center’ finances and prepares required reports in conjunction with the Executive Editor and SOC Dean’s Office and Finance team. The position works with the appropriate departments across the University to assure timely processing a range of financial and HR transactions for the center. Manages consultants contributing to the work of the Center.
Essential Functions
1. 50% - Center Business Operations: Manages IRW's general business operations in collaboration with the executive editor and other staff. Ensures that staff, students, and consultants have the necessary administrative resources. Assists in developing and implementing center policies, procedures, and systems. Coordinates student work schedules, oversees daily office needs, and serves as IRW's primary in-person contact for students, faculty, and staff.
2. 30% - Financial Management: Leads the center’s financial operations and develops strategies for fiscal management. Actively monitors the center's financial health by analyzing financial results, ongoing activities, and potential risks, and proactively implements solutions as necessary. Responsible for budgeting, forecasting, reporting, determining internal procedures, and implementing financial controls. Ensures that financial operations comply with university and funder policies and requirements. Actively monitors ledgers, approves transactions, and coordinates with University offices and sponsors on financial matters. Approves consultant contracts, human resources actions, and journal entries prior to routing for University review.
3. 15% - Development: Coordinates with the IRW’s executive editor and director of development to ensure adequate funding for the center’s programs an operations. Provides financial projections, reports, and analysis to IRW staff, university offices, and external funders. Serves as the IRW’s primary financial contact for grant-related accounts. Works with IRW’s director of development to ensure that university approved budgets, financial reports, invoices, and all other financial documents are provided to funders promptly. In conjunction with the executive editor and development director, drives strategic and sustainability planning, fostering agreement on long-term goals and ensuring a successful future for the center.
4. 5% - Other duties and services as assigned to support the strategic priorities of IRW and SOC.
Required Education:
Bachelor's degree or equivalent in experience
Required Experience:
3-4 years of relevant experience
Preferred Education:
Master's degree
Preferred Experience:
5-8 years of relevant experience
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
Full-time, 35 hrs/wk
This position is 100% externally funded by grants and gifts
Some occasional evening and weekend work may be required
Salary Range:
$73,000-$83,000/year (commensurate with experience)
Travel Required:
Infrequent travel required
Additional Eligibility Qualifications:
Financ
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