Director of Operations, Research Institutes and Centers

Job Requisition:

JR101557 Director of Operations, Research Institutes and Centers (Open)

Job Posting Title:

Director of Operations, Research Institutes and Centers

Department:

CC00041 WM001 | PROV | Vice Provost Office

Job Family:

Staff - Fiscal Administration

Worker Sub-Type:

Regular (benefited)

Job Requisition Primary Location:

Blow Memorial Hall

Primary Job Posting Location:

Blow Memorial Hall

Job Description Summary:

The Director of Operations for Research Institutes and Centers, serves as a senior administrative leader reporting to the Vice Provost for Research (VPR). The Director will oversee the operational, financial, and administrative management of research centers and institutes under the VPR’s purview, ensuring they function efficiently, comply with institutional and regulatory requirements, and align with the university’s strategic goals for research excellence and sustainability.
The Director provides strategic and operational leadership across a portfolio that includes: the Applied Research Center Core Labs, the Institute for Integrative Conservation, the Whole of Government center, the Virginia Coastal Resilience Collaborative, the Global Research Institute, AidData, the Entrepreneurship Hub, the W&M Center for Archaeological Research, and the Center for Conservation Biology. This position also manages F&A (Facilities and Administrative) funds, oversees space utilization for research, and advises on financial and policy matters that affect the research enterprise.

Job Description:

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, public administration, or a related field; or comparable education, training, and/or experience.

• Several years of progressive leadership and managerial experience and demonstrated fiscal and operational responsibility.

• Strong understanding of business and financial principles, including budgeting, cost analysis, and research administration.

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders.

• Demonstrated critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.

• Proven capacity to work independently, prioritize multiple projects, and operate in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

• Detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy and accountability.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree (MBA or related advanced degree).

• Experience in higher education administration or research management.

• Demonstrated success in building and maintaining effective relationships across academic and administrative units.

• Familiarity with university research operations, sponsored programs, and compliance frameworks.

Conditions of Employment: 

• This position may require working outside of normal business hours.

Job Duties: 

40%- Financial Leadership and Oversight:

• Directs and oversees all budget administration, financial forecasting, and cost management for centers and business units reporting to the VPR.

• Serves as Budget Director for University F&A funds and VPR Office budgets, ensuring proper distribution, monitoring, and compliance.

• Develops and implements effective financial strategies and controls to ensure fiscal integrity and sustainability.

• Advises the VPR on F&A rate proposals, research space surveys, and research productivity metrics.

• Prepares and presents financial analyses and performance benchmarks for research centers and institutes.

 

25%- Operational Management and Compliance:

• Ensures that all centers and units comply with university, state, federal, and standards and requirements.

• Develops and enforces standard operating procedures (SOPs) to support consistent, compliant, and efficient research operations.

• Identifies, analyzes, and resolves operational challenges proactively, fostering a positive, solutions-oriented environment.

• Conduct policy and regulatory research to inform VPR decision-making.

• Manages facility improvements and space allocations to maximize the use of research space to support research growth.

 

25%- Strategic Planning and Advising:

• Serves as a key advisor to the VPR on matters affecting research administration, financial performance, and policy implementation.

• Represents the VPR on internal and external research committees upon request.

• Provides data-driven insights and recommendations on strategic initiatives, performance benchmarks, and organizational improvements.

• Collaborates with internal and external stakeholders—including faculty, administrators, and partners—to enhance research infrastructure and impact.

 

5%- Performance Management:

• Ensures that expectations are clear, well communicated, and relate to the goals and objectives of the department or unit. 

• Provides staff with frequent, constructive feedback, including interim evaluations as appropriate. 

• Confirms that staff have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to accomplish goals. 

• Verifies that the requirements of the performance planning and evaluation system are met and completes evaluations by established deadlines with proper documentation. 

• Addresses and documents performance issues as they occur. 

• Reviews safety issues and communicates as appropriate to ensure a safe and healthy workplace. 

 

5%- Other Duties:

• All other duties as assigned.

The expected salary range for this position is $100,000-$125,000 commensurate with experience.

For full consideration, submit your cover letter and resume/CV with your application and apply by the priority review date of 05/11/2026.

Additional Job Description:

Job Profile:

JP1033 - Financial Manager II - Exempt - Salary - S16

Qualifications:

Compensation Grade:

S16

Recruiting Start Date:

2026-04-07

Review Date:

2026-05-11

Position Restrictions:

Continuing E&G funded position and not term-limited

EEO is the Law.  Applicants can learn more about William & Mary’s status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the "Know Your Rights" poster published by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. https://www.eeoc.gov/know-your-rights-workplace-discrimination-illegal

Background Check: William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check. 

Remote Work Disclaimer: Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.