| Position Summary: |
UDRI is a national leader in scientific and engineering research, serving government, industry and nonprofit customers. UDRI contributes to the fulfillment of the University’s commitments to education, research and public service through the involvement of students, faculty and external partners. Established as the research arm of the University of Dayton in 1956, UDRI achieved $2.75 billion in cumulative sponsored research in 2020. Sponsored research for 2020 alone exceeded $169 million. UDRI is ranked first in the nation among all colleges and universities for sponsored materials research, according to the National Science Foundation. In Ohio, UDRI is number one among colleges and universities receiving contracts and grants from the Department of Defense.
The Institute has a tradition of research excellence with an uncompromising commitment to providing customers with quality products while maintaining the highest ethical standards. It is keenly aware that compliance with applicable laws and regulations is an essential condition for performing its business. Its commitment to compliance is based on providing a supportive environment, the integrity of its employees, and their support of the University's policies and applicable laws and regulations of the United States.
The Director of Contracts and Grants is responsible for providing leadership and oversight of the Contracts and Grants Office while delivering on strategic initiatives within a culture that is consistent with the values of the University. The Contracts and Grants Office is responsible for pre-award activities, including the development and timely submission of technical and cost proposals that are compliant with customer requirements; negotiation and award of contracts and grants; administration of contracts and grants from account set up through closeout; and negotiation, award, and administration of subcontracts.
The Director of Contracts and Grants provides legal, regulatory and business guidance on a variety of issues related to the University’s sponsored programs, including UDRI’s portfolio of federal contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, and other awards. The Director provides expert guidance on strategies and methodologies for bidding complex government and commercial programs, contributes to developing policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance with government regulations, and ensures that sponsored projects are established in a timely fashion. The Director maintains a high degree of knowledge of federal regulations, including the Federal Acquisition Regulations and the OMB Uniform Guidance. The Director ensures that all functions in the office are meeting business and customer needs. Finally, the Director sets the example for others to follow in terms of professionalism, work ethic, integrity and a culture of service to internal and external customers.
Specific duties assigned to the Director of Contracts and Grants include:
• Provides leadership to the Contracts and Grants Office to include developing and mentoring employees and ensuring the office supports strategic initiatives and research execution within a culture that is consistent with the values of the University
• Ensures the terms of all contracts, research agreements, nondisclosure agreements, teaming agreements, and other formal agreements or legal instruments are favorable to the University and conform to University policies
• Maintains productive relationships and provides expert advice and counsel to researchers, staff, faculty and senior management on the interpretation of contract terms and conditions, risk mitigation, and government regulations; monitors proposed legislation and developing issues that could affect the University
• Sets a high standard for ethical conduct and maintains a highly productive staff through mentorship, development, and clear communication of expectations and feedback on performance.
• Reviews, redlines and negotiates more complex government and commercial contract terms and conditions
• Interfaces with auditors and ensures the University maintains compliant business processes and systems
• Assists with the development, refinement and implementation of policies and procedures to ensure University compliance with applicable laws and regulations
• Works collaboratively across the organization, particularly with division heads and principal investigators to quickly resolve issues as they arise
• Represents the University and UDRI in business relationships with government, commercial and professional organizations
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| Minimum Qualifications: |
• Juris Doctorate Degree
• At least 12 years of relevant experience including significant federal government contracting research administration experience
• Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of contracting principles and all contract types including Firm Fixed Price, Time and Material, Cost Plus Fixed Fee, and Cost Reimbursable. Strong knowledge of current Federal Acquisition Regulations and other laws and regulations applicable to contracts.
• Extensive knowledge of the federal acquisition process, government contracting principles, the bid and proposal process (including budget development), and governing regulations (including FAR/DFAR)
• Strong analytical skills, and the ability to communicate clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing
• Demonstrated experience prioritizing and managing work activities in a fast-paced environment and communicate effectively at all levels of an organization
• Proven ability to develop high-performing teams and efficient business processes
• Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills
• At least 5 years demonstrated supervisory experience including goal setting, coaching and monitoring of progress/performance.
• Proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite, especially Excel, Word, and Outlook
Due to the nature of this position, U.S. Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a secret clearance are required.
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| Closing Statement: |
Informed by its Catholic and Marianist mission, the University is committed to the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Informed by this commitment, we seek to increase diversity, achieve equitable outcomes, and model inclusion across our campus community. As an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer, we will not discriminate against minorities, women, protected veterans, individuals with disabilities, or on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity.
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