Lead Cancer Center Grants & Financial Administrator

The Lead - Grants & Contracts Administrator is responsible for assisting in the support of grants, contracts, subcontracts from initial application through termination. Work with faculty/PIs and Administrative Staff to ensure that grant applications are submitted appropriately. Verify that documentation of expenditures are consistent with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (SJCRH) policies and grant limitations. Manage financial processes for the grants and any associated subcontracts of the grants. Works collaboratively with both internal and external customers of the grants to develop and systematically coordinate financial operations and contracts. Responsible for the development of departmental policies and procedures and staff training related to the processing of all grant records while assisting with general and administrative policies, procedures and training. This position has access to and regularly works with information of sensitive and confidential nature. Coordinate administrative activities and/or special projects as assigned or directed to meet the goals and objectives as they relate to the department.

This role is primarily onsite. Relocation is required for candidates who are not local to the Memphis area.

Overview

The Comprehensive Cancer Center at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (SJCCC) is seeking a highly skilled Lead – Grants and Financial Administrator to provide expert leadership in grants administration and budget development. This critical role manages the National Cancer Institute (NCI)-funded Cancer Center Support Grant, a cornerstone of our research infrastructure that drives innovation and collaboration to advance our mission.

Working in the Office of the Cancer Center Director and Executive Vice President, we believe this is an exciting role for someone who wants to use their grant management and financial expertise to support the SJCCC, an innovative Comprehensive Cancer Center ranked “Exceptional” at the most recent NCI review.  In addition to playing a vital role in the administration and financial oversight of the Cancer Center Support Grant, in this position you will have the opportunity to be a part, of a cohesive and talented Cancer Center Administration team; engage world-renowned scientists, clinicians, and thought leaders; build relationships with department leads and stakeholders throughout the institution; participate in administrative retreats and other strategic planning and idea generating activities; contribute new ideas in an open and engaging environment and continue developing skills for your career goals.

Major Responsibilities

• Manage CCSG operations: Manage day-to-day administrative activities for the Cancer Center Support Grant (CCSG) under the guidance of the CCSG Project Director and VP of Cancer Center Administration.
• Budget leadership: Develop, revise, finalize, and monitor budgets for the CCSG, its supplements, and projects funded through the SJCCC’s pilot project program.
• Collaborative Problem-Solving: Partner with Grants and Sponsored Programs and Grants Accounting to resolve issues, ensure accurate budget development, and maintain proper WorkDay setup.
• Key Contact:  Serve as a key contact for grant and financial matters, supporting departmental financial approvals and reconciliation tasks.
• Grant Lifecycle Management:  Coordinate the annual CCSG noncompetitive renewal using effective project management strategies and support planning, application development, and submission of the CCSG competitive renewal and related supplements.
• Process Improvement: Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and operating guidelines for routine grant processes and financial operations.
• Limited Submission Coordination:  Work with the Office of Prizes and Awards on limited submission processes for cancer research funding opportunities.
• Professional Engagement: Participate in NCI-sponsored webinars and attend national meetings relevant to CCSG and grant administration.
• Financial Support:  Assist the VP of Cancer Center Administration with annual financial planning and financial tracking and reporting of Cancer Center budgets and serve as back-up for departmental financial business processes.
• Support other activities critical to CCSG or strategic goals of the SJCCC.

Minimum Education & Experience

Required:

• Bachelor's degree with 5+ years of experience in research administration, particularly in both pre- and post-award processes. Master’s degree preferred.
• Proven experience administering Federal (NIH) grants.
• Demonstrated ability in budget development, monitoring, and management.
• Experience working effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to handle sens