Director of Finance

Salary/Position Classification

• $110,000+ annual, Exempt
• 40 hours per week
• This position will work onsite the Grand Forks, ND campus.

Purpose of Position

The Director of Finance serves as the College of Engineering and Mine's senior financial leader, providing strategic oversight of budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, compliance, and grant administration. Reporting to the Dean, the Director partners with College and University leadership to develop financial strategies that support growth, innovation, and operational excellence. As a key advisor, the Director provides financial insight, forecasting, and resource planning to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of the College.

Duties & Responsibilities

•  Strategic Financial Leadership
  • Lead the College’s financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation processes to support strategic priorities and long-term sustainability.
  • Partner with College and University leadership to provide financial analysis, modeling, and recommendations that inform strategic decision-making and operational effectiveness.
  • Develop and monitor the College budget, evaluate financial performance, communicate financial trends and risks, and promote transparency and accountability across the organization.
  • Provide financial guidance to department leaders and support planning efforts related to enrollment, revenue generation, and resource utilization.
  • Foster collaboration and effective communication between the College and University finance teams.
• College Liaison to UND’s Central Finance Team
  • Serve as the primary financial liaison between the College and UND’s central finance offices, including Resource Planning & Allocation and the Associate Vice President for Finance.
  • Collaborate on budget planning, financial administration, policy implementation, and process improvement initiatives.
  • Communicate financial policies, procedures, and institutional changes to College departments and stakeholders while promoting best practices and operational efficiency.
• Financial Support for External Funding
  • Provide oversight and financial support for grants, contracts, and other externally funded activities, ensuring compliance with University and sponsor requirements.
  • Support faculty and research teams in budget development, proposal preparation, and financial administration related to external funding.
  • Monitor grant-related financial activity, including Facilities & Administrative (F&A) revenue, and advise College leadership on funding strategies, policy development, and resource distribution.
• Supervision
  • Lead, develop, and supervise finance staff, including hiring, performance management, training, and professional development.
  • Establish clear expectations, assign responsibilities, and promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Required Competencies

• Demonstrated strong data processing/analytical skills
• Demonstrated high degree of self-direction and motivation
• Organizational Leadership Skills
• Business Development Skills in confidentiality with sensitive information
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, including active listening, critical thinking, and the ability to write and speak concisely and express thoughts clearly across various levels
• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and work on multiple projects at one time

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Economics or another business-related field
• 5 years of senior-level experience in the accounting or finance field
• CPA, MBA or MAcc
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including significantly advanced knowledge of data analysis functions of Excel, including pivot tables, what-if scenarios, etc., with the ability generate a management summary of data
• Successful completion of a Criminal History Background Check

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the US and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. This position does not support visa sponsorship for continued employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Financial planning experience in higher education and research-intensive environments
• Experience working with PeopleSoft Finance
• Experience using PowerBI
• Experience with Responsibility Centered Management (RCM)

To Apply

Please include a cover letter and resume with your application.