Consulting Manager, Education Research-FINOPS

Huron•Chicago, IL

20h•$168,000 - $222,000•Remote

About The Position

Huron’s Finance & Operations team supports colleges and universities during leadership transitions, often after finance leaders in the CFO’s Office depart. Engagements may begin as interim staffing and grow into broader financial operations projects. Managers quickly enter complex environments, stabilize accounting and reporting functions, and guide clients and engagement teams through change. They provide interim financial leadership, manage projects, mentor staff, and deliver technology and financial solutions aligned with client goals. The role focuses on accounting, finance, budgeting, reporting, and enterprise systems in higher education, with opportunities for professional development and mentorship. Travel of up to 50% annually and extended hours may be required to meet client and project demands. The estimated base salary is $140,000–$185,000. The position is eligible for Huron’s annual incentive compensation program; the estimated total compensation range, including incentive opportunity, is $168,000–$222,000. The role is also eligible for benefit plans that include medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as other wellness programs.

Requirements

U.S. work authorization is required.
Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field from an accredited college or university, or equivalent relevant work experience.
Significant experience in accounting and finance roles within consulting and/or higher education.
Strong experience in a Program Controller, Accountant, Auditor, Assurance, or Financial Reporting capacity.
Experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial management.
Hands-on experience with financial systems such as Ellucian/Banner, Oracle, Workday, or similar platforms.
Passion for and commitment to the higher education industry.
Ability to travel up to 50% annually and work extended hours as needed to meet client and project demands.

Nice To Haves

MBA or another relevant advanced degree in accounting or finance.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license.
Assistant Controller or Controller experience.
Audit experience as a practicing auditor or in an institutional role collaborating directly with external auditors.
Experience participating in a financial system implementation or major system transition.

Responsibilities

Serve in interim leadership and senior individual contributor roles, such as Controller, Associate/Assistant Controller, or Budget Director, at higher education institutions.
Act as a subject matter expert in accounting and budgeting, with an understanding of university operations, governance, and regulatory considerations.
Resolve complex financial reporting issues and respond to financial inquiries through detailed analysis in general ledger and financial reporting systems.
Identify root causes of accounting and reporting issues, reconcile data, and improve processes.
Develop project plans to address client challenges and maintain project momentum.
Train, mentor, and supervise client staff and Huron engagement team members, including junior resources.
Perform or oversee day-to-day accounting operations, including close processes, reconciliations, budget support, and financial reporting.
Use audit experience to support external audit coordination, respond to auditor inquiries, and strengthen internal controls.
Contribute finance system implementation or transition experience, including supporting end users and validating data.
Present financial information, findings, and recommendations to senior administrators and executives, explaining detailed analysis and broader strategic implications.
Communicate project work clearly and concisely in writing and verbally to non-technical audiences.
Collaborate with FinOps and broader Huron teams to identify opportunities for expanded support as interim engagements evolve.