Assistant Vice President for Budget and Finance - ...

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) u2013 a global leader in education, research, and innovation across computing, artificial intelligence, engineering, science, business, arts, and public policy u2013 invites applications for the position of Assistant Vice President for Budget and Finance . The successful candidate will provide strategic direction and oversight for the financial affairs of CMUu2019s Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) and the university-wide research and innovation enterprise. The Assistant VP will support CMUu2019s research mission and strategic goals by advising leadership on business and financial strategies that align with research priorities and sustainable operations both within the OVPR and across campus. They will foster operational excellence by developing and implementing effective and efficient financial practices, processes, and policies as well as by building and managing innovative business and operating models for university-wide research initiatives and infrastructure. Reporting to CMUu2019s Vice President for Research (VPR) with a dotted line to the Vice Provost for Academic Budget and Finance and working in close partnership with CMUu2019s Finance Office and College leadership, this position is one of CMUu2019s top financial officers that supports data-driven solutions that balance long-term strategy with near-term priorities and needs. About Carnegie Mellon University CMU is a top-ranked private research-intensive university based in Pittsburgh, PA, with a vision of fostering a transformative impact on society through continual innovation in education, research, creativity, and entrepreneurship. The university is internationally recognized for its computer science, artificial intelligence, engineering, business, science, humanities, and fine arts programs, with a strong emphasis on innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. With more than a dozen degree-granting locations and a growing number of partnerships around the world, CMU is truly a global university. CMU provides undergraduate students with a distinctive interdisciplinary approach and an emphasis on research and entrepreneurial experiences. Its world-renowned faculty also deliver a full complement of graduate and postgraduate programs and conduct research that pushes the frontiers of technology, science, and the arts. Its footprint fosters cooperation across borders, including from its campuses in Silicon Valley, CA; Education City, Doha, Qatar; and Kigali, Rwanda, East Africa. CMUu2019s confluence of scholarly excellence, robust federal and industry partnerships, and heritage of innovation consistently place it among the most dynamic and impactful research institutions in the world. The university is ranked #20 in National Universities and the #4 Most Innovative Schools by U.S. News & World Report in 2026 and is considered a top 25 university globally by Times Higher Education in 2025. It has #1 ranked programs in Computer Science and Business u2013 including AI, software engineering, cybersecurity, programming languages, mobile applications, business analytics, and management information systems u2013 with 14 additional top 10 programs across Engineering, Computer Science, and Business. CMU views its 125-year legacy as a beginning: with innovation and entrepreneurship in the universityu2019s DNA, it thrives on agility to seize pivotal moments and embrace the future in its persistent pursuit of excellence. _For additional information about CMU, please visit_ _ _._ Research and Entrepreneurship at Carnegie Mellon University Carnegie Mellon University is known as an epicenter of innovative and societally transformative research and technologies u2014 from the birthplace of AI through the pioneering work of Simon and Newell in the 1950u2019s, to the home of autonomous and self-driving vehicles in the 1980u2019s, to the first wireless campus in the 1990u2019s, all the way to AI-powered cognitive tutors and AI-enabled robotic scientific labs today. The entrepreneurial mindset and approach of its faculty, staff, and leadership have enabled CMU researchers to drive innovation at the frontiers of science, technology, and society. Its interdisciplinary research enterprise spans AI, robotics, computer science, engineering, life sciences, social systems, and the arts u2014 tackling challenges that support a safer, more secure and resilient future. Last year, CMUu2019s research expenditure exceeded $720 million , which included support from industry partners across all major sectors, federal agencies such as the NSF, DOW, DOE, NIH, and ARPA-H , as well as non-profit foundations and international organizations. CMUu2019s reach and impact are extended through its large applied and translational research units that include the National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC), the Software Engineering Institute (SEI), a national federally funded research and development center, and the Advanced Robotics Manufacturing (ARM) Institute, a national manufacturing innovation institute. CMUu2019s collaborative culture accelerates progress, enabling researchers and students to move seamlessly from idea to implementation. The result is a university whose innovations donu2019t just advance knowledge u2014 they redefine industries, inform national policy, and improve lives worldwide. The university has a rich history of successful startup founders and investors who are CMU alumni, faculty, and students. This includes 67 CMU-affiliated unicorns like Duolingo, Skild AI, Nest, Cognizant, and Aurora, and startups with CMU IP or equity that have exited with more than $38 billion in cumulative value. _Read more about CMU research on the_ _Work That Matters site_ _._ ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Financial Strategy and Management + Advise and guide CMU leadership on effective, efficient, and transparent operational and financial practices to support a leading research enterprise. + Lead the OVPRu2019s budgeting, forecasting, and other financial planning processes. + Oversee data-driven allocation of budgets across OVRPu2019s units, focusing on rational and equitable distribution of resources. + Analyze financial performance and recommend strategies to optimize OVPRu2019s financial position. + Ensure integration and roll-out of Finance Division initiatives to OVPRu2019s units and partner with the Vice Provost on work with academic units. + Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation of budget and financial processes. + Ensure compliance with requirements and regulations of external agencies and adherence to CMU policies, procedures, and practice guidelines. + Provide training and guidance to OVPRu2019s units on financial processes and best practices. + Lead financial scenario planning efforts for VPR and Vice Provost by evaluating, modeling and contingency planning for different types of scenarios (i.e. enrollment shifts, inflation, research funding changes, etc.). Strategic Financial Leadership + Partner with the Vice Provost for Academic Budgets and Financial Planning to plan short- and long-term financial strategies. + Build and maintain relationships with key university stakeholders, including the Finance Division, Provostu2019s Office, Presidentu2019s Office, and academic units. + Provide counsel on financial implications of strategic initiatives, growth, program development, and faculty hiring and retention. + Oversee the OVPR monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close, including reconciliations, journal entries and reporting. + Oversee the OVPR procurement and purchasing, including requisitions, vendor set-up, contract routing, and P-card administration. + Oversee the OVPR Accounts Payable (AP) and Accounts Receivable (AR) functions, ensuring timely invoice processing, collections, and vendor payments. + Provide guidance on financial aspects of major capital expenditures, building/lab renovations, and other research investments. + Identify, analyze and mitigate financial risk to the Vice Provost and the VPR by developing and implementing risk management strategies and communicating risk findings accordingly. + Lead special financial projects, system implementations, or process improvement initiatives. + Develop accessible reporting tools to support data-driven decision making throughout the research enterprise. Research Administration Oversight + Oversee financial administration of sponsored research projects, gifts and endowments under the OVPRu2019s portfolio. + Oversee financial model and administration of high-performance research computing, experimental shared user facilities, and applied research units. + Ensure compliance with sponsor regulations and university policies, collaborating with the Vice Provost, Office of Sponsored Research, and Finance. + Oversee resource allocation processes, including cost sharing, effort, and space. Management/Team Leadership: + Lead and manage a team of finance professionals, ensuring alignment organizational goals and delivery of high-quality financial analysis, reporting, and operational support. + Coordinate with OVPR, HR and Payroll on hiring, onboarding, and compensation allocations. + Provide ongoing coaching, mentoring, and professional development to enhance team capabilities, foster engagement, and promote a culture of accountability and excellence. + Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to support growth, recognize achievements, and address performance gaps effectively. + Cultivate a service-oriented culture that balances compliance and stewardship with CMU policies and regulations with responsiveness to audits. EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS + Masteru2019s degree in business administration, finance, or related field; CPA or CRA preferred. + Minimum of ten years of relevant experience with at least five years in operational financial leadership; FFRDCs, FAR 32.1 (commercial contracting), recharge centers, academic research institute or higher education experience preferred. + Strong analytical and strategic planning skills; advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with financial systems and reporting tools. + Knowledge of university financial systems, sponsored research administration, and compliance regulations. + Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills; ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines. Accountability: Manages an OVPR budget of more than $100 million. Direction: Works independently with regular meetings with the Vice Provost and VPR. Decision Making: Handles responsibilities independently and escalates unique or high-impact issues to the Vice Provost and VPR. Supervisory Responsibility: Oversees OVPRu2019s finance and financial operations staff; responsible for performance evaluation, hiring, and salary recommendations. NOMINATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES: Interested candidates are invited to apply with a cover letter, resume, and through the CMU Workday application portal. Contact: Ferra Executive Search has been retained to manage the search. If you have any inquiries or nominations, please send an email to: Kevin Ferra, Founding Partner Ferra Executive Search Please use u2018AVP for Budget and Finance, Office of Vice President for Researchu2019 as the subject line when you contact Kevin. Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits. Benefits eligible ( employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance ( as well as a generous retirement savings program ( with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits (, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off ( and observed holidays (, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team ( to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access ( , and much more For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page ( . At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; itu2019s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations. Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization? Apply today Location Pittsburgh, PA Job Function University Administration and Management Position Type Staff u2013 Regular Full Time/Part time Full time Pay Basis Salary More Information: + Please visit u201cWhy Carnegie Mellon (u201d to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world. + Click here ( to view a listing of employee benefits + Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran . + Statement of Assurance ( Interested in a career with Carnegie Mellon University but not finding anything that currently aligns with your interests, background, or experience? Learn how to sign up for Job Alerts (through your candidate profile. If your heart is in your work, come work with us. Carnegie Mellon University isnu2019t just one of the worldu2019s most renowned educational institutions u2013 itu2019s also a hotspot for some of the most talented doers, dreamers, and difference-makers on the planet. When you join our staff, youu2019ll become an important part of our mission to create a healthier, safer, and more just life for all. No matter what your role or location, youu2019ll connect and collaborate with dedicated, passionate colleagues u2013 and youu2019ll have the satisfaction of delivering work that truly matters. We cultivate a vibrant, welcoming environment where everyone is valued and encouraged to contribute and achieve. In addition to competitive benefits and a robust support network, youu2019ll have access to many tools and resources to sharpen your abilities and professional skills, as well as opportunities to engage and share perspectives with a dynamic and inspiring community of uniquely talented staff, faculty, students, and alumni. The future is awaiting your expertise and intellect. Come join the architects of whatu2019s next. Apply now. Learn more about Student Employment (. Please see Faculty Careers. ( For technical assistance, email HR Services () or call 412-268-4600. If you are an individual with a disability and you require assistance with the job application process, please email Equal Opportunity Services () or call 412-268-3930. Prospective Employee Disclosures (

Created: 2026-01-29