Director of Financial Operations - Core Admin

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Position Summary

The Department of Medicine at Columbia University Irving Medical Center-the largest and one of the most dynamic departments within the institution-is seeking a motivated and detail-driven Director of Financial Operations to join our leadership team.

Reporting directly to the Department's Chief Financial Officer, this position plays a pivotal role in ensuring the integrity, compliance, and efficiency of the Department's financial operations. The Financial Operations Director will lead and support the financial close process (monthly, quarterly, and annual) in collaboration with the analytical team; strengthen internal controls; and uphold adherence to University, CUIMC, and federal compliance requirements, including Uniform Guidance.

This role is ideal for a highly organized, analytical, and collaborative professional who brings both precision and leadership to complex financial environments. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills, the ability to train and guide divisional teams, and the drive to enhance scalability and automation across processes.

Work Arrangement : On-site initially, with potential hybrid flexibility

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all aspects of the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes in coordination with the Department's analytical and finance teams.
• Ensure financial operations comply with University, CUIMC, and federal regulations, including Uniform Guidance and other relevant policies.
• Review and approve departmental account reconciliations, including bank reconciliations for contract physician arrangements and other key financial activities.
• Propose and implement enhanced internal controls and process improvements to strengthen the Department's financial integrity and efficiency.
• Provide training, mentorship, and policy guidance to divisional finance staff to raise overall skill levels and ensure consistent compliance and accuracy.
• Collaborate with Division Administrators and department leaders to communicate policies, share insights, and promote best practices.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to the CFO, providing data-driven recommendations and supporting strategic decision-making.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement across the finance function.
• Lead, develop, and support a small but growing team, encouraging professional growth and fostering operational excellence.
• Perform other related duties and special projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required, preferably in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.
• At least 5 years of progressive experience in accounting, financial management, or operations, with demonstrated leadership or supervisory experience.
• Strong understanding of accrual accounting principles.
• Proven ability to manage complex financial processes and ensure compliance with institutional and regulatory standards.
• Exceptional attention to detail, analytical reasoning, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other financial analysis tools.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders at all levels.
• Demonstrated initiative, integrity, and a collaborative approach to leadership.

Preferred Qualifications

• CPA or public accounting experience a plus.
• Experience with PeopleSoft or similar ERP systems.
• Deep familiarity with Columbia University or CUIMC systems and policies strongly.

Other Requirements

• Successful completion of applicable compliance and systems training requirements.

Why Join Us

The Department of Medicine at Columbia University Irving Medical Center is one of the nation's premier academic departments - consistently ranked among the top five in NIH funding. Our faculty and staff are deeply committed to advancing medicine through exceptional clinical care, groundbreaking research, and world-class education.

Under the visionary leadership of our new Chair of Medicine, the department is entering an exciting period of strategic growth and innovation, expanding into cutting-edge areas such as genetics, genomics, and precision medicine.

Joining our finance team means being part of this transformative era - supporting the financial foundation that fuels discovery, clinical excellence, and educational advancement. You'll work alongside some of the most respected leaders in academic medicine, in a department that values professionalism, collaboration, and continuous learning.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a finance leader who is teachable, adaptable, and eager to make a meaningful impact - not just on processes and controls, but on the mission of improving human health through science and compassion.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.