Director, Sponsored Programs

Job Description:

POSITION SUMMARY 

The Chicago School seeks a visionary Director for the Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) to transform and lead the University's grant acquisition, compliance, and administration functions. This position will shape the institution's funding strategy, cultivate high-impact partnerships, and significantly expand our research portfolio and external revenue streams. The Executive Director will serve as a key institutional strategist, identifying emerging funding trends and positioning The Chicago School to capitalize on opportunities that advance our academic mission and institutional priorities. 

Reporting to the Vice President of Academic Affairs, the Director will design and implement a comprehensive sponsored programs framework that elevates our competitive position, drives innovation, and establishes The Chicago School as a recognized leader in securing grants and partnerships.  

This position is a Remote position. Working hours must be flexible to align with multiple time zones, and occasional domestic travel may be required. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

Grant Strategy and Management 

Develop and execute a comprehensive strategy to significantly expand and diversify the University's sponsored programs portfolio, aligned with the University’s mission and strategic priorities.  

Identify emerging funding trends and position the University to capitalize on high-value opportunities. 

Create and maintain a dashboard of key performance indicators to measure progress and demonstrate growth and impact to University leadership and the Board of Trustees. 

Serve as a trusted advisor to University leadership on matters related to external funding and research development 

Grant Portfolio Development  

Lead the strategic identification and pursuit of high-impact funding opportunities that enhance institutional reputation 

Design and implement systems to increase proposal success rates and maximize award values 

Create sustainable funding models that align with the University's strategic plan and long-term financial goals 

Compliance, Training, and Institutional Support 

Ensure compliance with federal, state, and sponsor regulations, institutional policies, and grant requirements. 

Serve as the University’s subject-matter expert on funding policies, contractual obligations, and compliance-related issues. 

Provide training and consultation for faculty and staff on grant writing, proposal submission, and award management. 

Leadership and Team Development 

Supervise, mentor, and develop OSP staff to support an efficient and service-oriented office. 

Establish clear goals, performance metrics, and professional development opportunities for the OSP team. 

Cultivate a culture of collaboration and excellence within OSP and across departments. 

External and Internal Collaboration 

Serve as a key representative and advocate for The Chicago School in engagements with funding organizations, government agencies, and research institutions, proactively building strategic partnerships and securing funding opportunities that advance the university’s mission and priorities 

Collaborate with University leadership, faculty, and staff to develop competitive grant proposals. 

Facilitate interdisciplinary partnerships to expand funding opportunities and enhance institutional research initiatives. 

Operational and Strategic Leadership 

Develop and oversee OSP’s budget, ensuring resources are allocated effectively to support University grant initiatives. 

Implement best practices for research administration, risk management, and financial stewardship of sponsored projects. 

Lead the assessment and continuous improvement of grant-related processes and infrastructure. 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS 

Education: Bachelor’s degree required;  

Experience: Minimum 5+ years of experience in grant development, research administration, or sponsored programs management within a higher education or nonprofit setting. 

Skills: 

In-depth knowledge of federal and state funding regulations (e.g., NIH, NSF, DOE, private foundations). 

Strong grant writing and proposal development skills. 

Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, budgets, and cross-functional teams. 

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and grant management systems. 

Shape 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 

Education: Master’s degree preferred. (e.g., Public Administration, Research Administration, Higher Education Leadership) 

Experience: 

2+ years of experience in a leadership role within research administration or sponsored programs in a higher education or nonprofit setting. 

Experience developing training programs for faculty and staff on grant writing a