Director of Finance

Lead the Strategic and Operational Financial Management of a Mission-Driven Organization

UIDP seeks an experienced, strategic, and hands-on Director of Finance to lead and strengthen the organization’s fiscal management and long-term financial strategy. As a key member of the leadership team, this role is responsible for supporting the organization’s financial health, sustainability, and integrity while remaining actively engaged in day-to-day financial operations.

This position offers a unique opportunity to shape and advance financial strategy within a growing, mission-driven organization at the forefront of global university-industry collaboration. The Director of Finance combines high-level strategic leadership with operational execution, overseeing budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, compliance, and grants management.

Working in close partnership with the President & CEO and senior leadership team, the Director of Finance provides critical financial insight to inform decision-making and support organizational growth. The role also includes direct supervision of the Accounting & Grants Manager, with responsibility for leadership, oversight, and professional development, ensuring the effective and accurate execution of daily financial and grants operations.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement long-term financial strategies aligned with organizational goals and growth objectives.
• Partner with the Treasurer, President & CEO, and Board to support investment strategy, including oversight of reserves and short- and long-term investment approaches.
• Lead annual budgeting and multi-year financial forecasting processes.
• Establish financial policies, systems, and controls that support scalability and sustainability.
• Provide financial insights and scenario modeling to support strategic initiatives.

Financial Management & Operations

• Oversee all accounting functions, including general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and reconciliations.
• Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and reports.
• Maintain and enhance financial dashboards and reporting tools for leadership and board use.
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of financial records and reporting systems (QuickBooks)
• Provide executive oversight of the annual audit process, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and timely completion.
• Oversee organizational banking relationships, ensuring optimal account structures, competitive rates, and cost-effective fee arrangements.
• Monitor cash management practices and liquidity to support operational needs and strategic initiatives.

Grants & Compliance Oversight

• Provide strategic oversight of grant budgeting, financial tracking, and reporting.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and private funding requirements.
• Review and approve grant-related financial reports.
• Strengthen internal controls and compliance frameworks.

Operational Execution

• Maintain direct, hands‑on involvement in financial processes as needed, particularly in a lean team environment.
• Lead financial process improvement and system enhancements, including identifying inefficiencies, implementing scalable solutions, and managing change across the organization.
• Supervise and mentor finance staff.

Other Duties as Assigned

• This position may be responsible for a variety of additional tasks to support the effective operation of the organization. These may include general administrative functions, clerical support, document preparation, data entry, scheduling assistance, meeting coordination, filing, supply management, and other office-related activities. Responsibilities may evolve based on organizational needs, and flexibility and a collaborative approach are essential.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

The successful candidate is both a strategic thinker and a practical executor , someone who can operate at a high level while remaining comfortable managing detailed financial work. You are proactive, analytical, and adaptable, with strong judgment and a commitment to accuracy and accountability. You thrive in a collaborative, mission-driven environment and are motivated to build and improve systems that support organizational success.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field (required)
• Master’s degree (MBA, MPA, or related field) strongly preferred.
• Minimum of 8+ years of progressively responsible experience in finance or accounting
• Demonstrated experience in a senior-level or leadership finance role.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in nonprofit, association, or grant‑funded environments is strongly preferred.
• Experience with National Science Foundation (NSF) grants
• CPA, CMA, or equivalent professional certification

Technical & Professional Skills

• Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, and internal controls
• Experience with cash management, reserves planning, and organizational investment strategies, including working with financial advisors or investment committees.
• Proficiency with QuickBooks Online
• Demonstrated experience leading process improvement initiatives, system implementations, or organizational change management efforts within a finance function.
• Ability to build and optimize financial workflows in a growing or evolving organization.
• Proven ability to lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes.
• Experience managing audits and working with external accounting firms.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and financial analysis tools

WHO WE ARE

UIDP ( ) is a global nonprofit membership association that helps great innovation companies and world-class research universities develop new and better collaboration approaches. UIDP is a recognized convener of thought leaders and practitioners, identifying high-impact strategies so companies and universities (along with other interested parties) can improve the return on investment from their partnerships. UIDP’s operating model is predicated on being agile and producing high-quality products that meet the community's needs.

OUR TEAM

As the quality and impact of UIDP’s work continue to gain recognition, our team has experienced rapid growth over the past five years to keep up with the increasing demand. Despite this growth, we maintain the vibrant spirit and energy of a mission-driven start-up. We’re united by a clear, ambitious vision while embracing the inherent ambiguity and urgency of a highly agile organization.

Exciting growth opportunities await! At UIDP, we believe in investing in our staff to help them achieve their personal and professional goals. Team members are encouraged to enhance their skill sets through professional development initiatives, and we actively promote from within, offering pathways for those seeking greater responsibilities. Join us and be a part of our dynamic journey!

LOCATION

This position is based in Columbia, South Carolina, and applicants must currently reside in the state. UIDP follows a hybrid work schedule, with staff working in the office a minimum of three days per week.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

This full-time, exempt position offers a competitive salary that reflects the value we place on our team members’ contributions. In addition to financial compensation, we provide a generous benefits package designed to support your overall well-being and work-life balance. This includes comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance to ensure you are covered.

We also offer a robust retirement plan to help you plan for your future, along with generous paid time off that encourages you to recharge and enjoy personal time. At UIDP, we are committed to fostering our employees' professional development by providing opportunities for training, workshops, and mentorship programs that support their professional growth.