Senior Manager - Finance & Business Operations

Iowa State University•Ames, IA

About The Position

Iowa State University Research Park (ISURP) is currently accepting applications for a Senior Manager, Finance and Business Operations. This position is a senior finance leadership role responsible for financial management, financial reporting, and enterprise-wide financial planning and analysis (FP&A) for ISURP. This highly complex and critical role ensures accurate, timely, and decision-useful financial information while strengthening financial controls, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and technology-enabled workflows across the organization. The position reports to and serves as a strategic partner for the ISURP President by providing financial oversight for complex leases, major capital projects, and other financial activities, thus ensuring alignment with ISURP financial policies and reporting requirements. The role works closely with Iowa State University partners, including the Controller’s Office and departments that report to the Senior Vice President for Operations & Finance, to ensure consistency, compliance, and strong coordination on Iowa State University related activities. The successful candidate will have: A substantial number of years with progressive experience in financial management, reporting, FP&A, or business operations Demonstrated experience preparing and interpreting financial statements and management reports A strong background in internal controls, SOP development, and process improvement Experience overseeing complex leases, capital projects, or large-scale financial initiatives

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and 8 years of related experience
A substantial number of years with progressive experience in financial management, reporting, FP&A, or business operations
Demonstrated experience preparing and interpreting financial statements and management reports
A strong background in internal controls, SOP development, and process improvement
Experience overseeing complex leases, capital projects, or large-scale financial initiatives
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field
Experience in a university-affiliated, research park, nonprofit, or public-private environment
Familiarity with enterprise financial systems, project accounting, and lease accounting standards
Familiarity with start-up companies and entrepreneurial ecosystems

Responsibilities

Administers business affairs of a $13M+ operational budget.
Prepares operating and project budget drafts.
Monitors budgets and reports any significant deviations from approved budgets.
Performs monthly close and provides quarterly reports.
Formulates policies and guidelines to carry out the department's mission.
Manages complex, leases, major capital projects, and governmental/University reporting as required.