Director of Accounting Operations - Dietrich College

Applicants, please be aware that this position is a fixed‑term position set initially for a 1‑year duration with a possibility of extending beyond the original duration. The Director of Accounting Operations provides strategic and operational leadership for the financial and accounting functions within the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences. The role ensures the integrity, accuracy and timeliness of the college’s financial records, serves as a liaison between the college and the university’s central Finance Division, and leads efforts to enhance financial processes and internal controls. Core Responsibilities Lead day‑to‑day accounting operations for all Dietrich College departments, centers and programs. Ensure compliance with university accounting policies, GAAP standards, regulatory and sponsor regulations. Manage month, quarter and year‑end close processes, including journal entries, reconciliations and variance analyses. Manage Procure‑to‑Pay function, including vendor relationships and invoice processing. Ensure payroll (including faculty summer salaries and sponsored research commitments), tax and receivable transactions are processed in accordance with university requirements. Produce accurate and timely financial statements and reports for college and university leadership. Collaborate with FP&A to develop models for indirect cost recovery and support college financial sustainability. Develop, implement and monitor internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure data integrity. Partner with university Controller and finance leadership to maintain strong financial stewardship, controls and compliance practices. Coordinate with grant and contract accounting, including pre‑award budget review, post‑award expense tracking, effort reporting and closeout. Coordinate with internal and external auditors to ensure audit readiness and resolution of findings. Identify and execute initiatives to streamline accounting processes and enhance operational efficiency, leveraging technology and best practices to drive continuous improvement. Lead or support the college implementation of financial systems, tools and automation initiatives in conjunction with the finance division. Champion the use of data analytics and business intelligence to translate data into actionable insights for cross‑function teams. Collaborate with the Budget and Financial Planning teams to ensure data consistency and process integration across systems (e.g., Workday, Oracle, Tableau). Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track operational performance and service delivery. Provide operational and analytical support to the Chief Business Officer and Director of FP&A for financial planning, forecasting and scenario analysis. Assess resource utilization and staffing models to align operations with evolving organizational needs. Serve as a trusted advisor to the Chief Business Officer, Dean’s Office and department heads on accounting matters, translating academic and research priorities into sustainable financial strategies. Provide analytical support and financial insight for audits, facilities projects, space utilization, grant management and special projects. Coordinate with the Office of Sponsored Programs on post‑award financial management for research activity. Supervise and mentor accounting and business operations staff within the college. Set clear goals, provide regular feedback and recognize achievements. Promote professional growth, accountability and service excellence within the finance team. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration or related field required; Master’s degree preferred. CPA, CMA or equivalent financial certification preferred. 7–10 years of relevant experience in accounting or financial operations. 5–7 years of management experience. Demonstrated ability to cultivate credibility and build collaborative partnerships across academic, administrative and central university functions. Proven experience developing, mentoring and retaining a high‑performing team, fostering a culture of accountability, professional growth and service excellence. Demonstrated mastery in managing complex accounting operations, including financial close cycles, reconciliations, transaction processing and compliance with GAAP and regulatory standards. Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and projects in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment. High proficiency with advanced Excel functions, financial systems (e.g., Workday or Oracle), data analytics and reporting tools (e.g., Tableau), and automation technologies. Successful background investigation. A combination of education and proven experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered. Benefits Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental and vision insurance. Generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Tuition benefits. Paid time off and observed holidays. Life and accidental death and disability insurance. Free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass. Family Concierge Team for childcare needs. Access to fitness center. Additional perks. Location Pittsburgh, PA Job Function Financial Planning, Analysis, Accounting and Reporting Position Type Staff – Fixed Term Full Time/Part Time Full time Pay Basis Salary Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran. #J-18808-Ljbffr 6AM City, LLC