Penn State Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) is hiring a Chief Financial Officer and Director of Business Services to drive business services strategy and operations for our national security research mission. You will provide vision and leadership for developing and implementing business solutions aligned with ARL and University goals, overseeing a staff of over 90 employees across proposal development, contract negotiation, financial planning, analysis, and accounting.

What You'll Do

Partner with the ARL senior leadership team to deliver financial and contractual management solutions in support of the research mission.
Participate in strategic and operational governance processes as a member of the senior leadership team.
Develop strong relationships with government representatives responsible for UARC oversight and internal cost controls.
Develop, enhance, and oversee business financial management controls to ensure successful and compliant finance operations.
Lead strategic and operational business planning to achieve ARL goals by fostering innovation and prioritizing business initiatives.
Develop and maintain an organizational structure that effectively serves research sponsors.
Grow, train, mentor, and maintain a business services workforce consistent with organizational goals.
Stay current on emerging federal regulations affecting ARL contracts and financial management.
Provide leadership and management of the ARL Business Services Organization aligned with policies and procedures.
Provide financial management for planning, direct contract, and internal overhead budgeting, performance, compliance, and internal controls.
Establish departmental goals, objectives, and operating procedures for business services.
Oversee staff recruitment, retention, training, development, and performance management for all business services staff.
Ensure quality delivery of business services, monitor performance, and adjust as needed.
Define and communicate strategies, plans, policies, and standards for business services.
Develop, implement, and monitor a comprehensive business services program compliant with federal, University, and industry standards.
Coordinate consultation with stakeholders to define business and systems requirements for new technology implementations.

What We're Looking For

Success as a CFO, Deputy CFO, or in financial management of a large organization, leading the entire business enterprise.
A minimum of ten years proven success in a senior-level business management position.
Considerable knowledge of business theory, processes, management, budgeting, and business office operations.
Experience in strategic planning and execution.
Extensive experience in financial management of a large organization.
Proven success in senior-level business management, financial management, and strategic planning.
Knowledge of commercial information technology business systems.
In-depth knowledge of applicable laws and regulations related to federal contracting.
Detailed knowledge of contract management and compliance.
Excellent understanding of project management principles.
Strong knowledge and experience with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.
Strong understanding and experience with human resource management principles, practices, and procedures.
Proven leadership skills and experience leading teams through complex business issues and process improvements.
Success in office environments requiring flexible communication, leadership, negotiation, and organizational skills.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret and Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance, including a government polygraph examination.
A Bachelor's Degree.
10+ years of relevant experience, including 5+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination.
Successful completion of a credit history check in addition to standard background checks.
All positions at ARL require the ability to obtain a government security clearance.
You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.

Nice to Have

A Master’s degree in business, accounting, finance, or a related field.
Previous experience in a Department of Defense (DoD) business environment with federal contract management and accounting.
Detailed knowledge of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Cost Accounting Principles and 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance.
Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher.

Team & Environment

You will lead a team of over 90 employees and report within the ARL senior leadership team. The ARL mission supports national security, economic competitiveness, and quality of life through education, scientific discovery, technology demonstration, and transition.

Benefits & Compensation

Compensation range: $109,300.00 - $164,000.00
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
Robust retirement plans
Substantial paid time off including holidays, vacation and sick time
Generous 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members

Work Mode

This is an onsite position located in State College, PA.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.