The McCain Institute is a nonpartisan organization inspired by Senator John McCain and his family’s dedication to public service. We are part of Arizona State University and based in Washington, D.C. Our programs defend democracy, advance human rights, and empower character-driven leaders. Our unique power to convene leaders across the global political spectrum enables us to make a real impact on the world’s most pressing challenges. Our goal is action, not talk, and like Senator McCain, we are fighting to create a free, safe, and just world for all.

The McCain Institute, a part of Arizona State University, seeks a full-time Director of Finance. The Director of Finance will oversee all financial operations, ensuring the fiscal health and sustainability of the organization. This role involves strategic financial planning, budgeting, reporting, compliance, and managing financial risk. The Director of Finance will collaborate closely with senior leadership to provide financial insights that support organizational growth and development.

This position is based in Washington, DC, and is eligible for a hybrid work schedule.

Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with the organization’s long-term goals and mission.Responsible for all elements of financial management and oversight, including:Budget preparation, authorization, execution, and accountability.Compliance with ASU and ASUF financial procedures.Managing relationships with KE and ASUF Finance and Procurement staff as well as the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs Administration (ORSPA) to ensure accurate reporting, accounting, and budget management.Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for leadership, the board, and external stakeholders, ensuring accuracy and transparency.Identify and mitigate financial risks by managing cash flow, reserves, and insurance policies.Oversee the financial management of grants and contracts, ensuring proper allocation, documentation, and compliance with grantor requirements.Supervise payroll processing, benefits administration, and other compensation-related functions in collaboration with HR.Maintain and improve financial systems, internal controls, and processes to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.Lead and mentor the finance/grants team, fostering a culture of professional growth and collaboration.Work closely with department heads and project managers to provide financial insights and support for project and program budgeting.

Bachelor's degree in a field appropriate to the area of assignment AND eight (8) years of related administrative experience, which includes five (5) years of supervisory experience; OR, Twelve (12) years of related administrative experience, which includes five (5) years of supervisory experience; OR, Any equivalent combination of education and/or experience from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.

Demonstrated knowledge of financial regulations, non-profit accounting standards (GAAP), and grant management.Experience with financial software and systems, with strong proficiency in Excel and financial modeling tools.Experience in leadership skills with the ability to manage and develop a team.Evidence of effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders.Experience in thinking strategically and work collaboratively across departments.Evidence of high level of integrity and commitment to ethical financial management.Experience working in a university-affiliated or public-sector environment.Familiarity with Workday or similar ERP systems.

ASU is an inclusive enterprise with a wide variety of work and learning modes, locations, and a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and employee work-life balance. We are determined to maintain our position as an employer of choice in a competitive labor market, as such the following options may be offered dependent on department needs: 

Flexible work options:  

Alternative work schedules can include four, 10-hour workdays in a workweek; a nine-day, 80-hour schedule over two workweeks for exempt employees only; and staggered start and stop times.  Hybrid work is an arrangement where employees spend a minimum of 60% of their regular workweek at their primary ASU work location. Dean or vice president-level approval is required.  Remote work is an arrangement where the employee spends less than 60% of their regular workweek at a regularly assigned ASU work location. Executive vice president-level approval is required.Standard Working Environment: Climate-controlled office setting subject to extended periods of being in a stationary position.Constantly detects and operates a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine and computer printer.   Ability to clearly communicate and exchange accurate information to perform essential duties.   Expected to be responsive to customers, engaged in work production, resourceful, flexible, and respectful of others. For the tenth year in a row, ASU has been named the most innovative school in the nation, recognizing the university's culture of groundbreaking research and partnerships, as well as its commitment to helping students thrive in college and beyond. U.S. News and World Report has named ASU as the most innovative university all nine years the category has existed. 

ASU Knowledge Enterprise advances research, innovation, strategic partnerships, entrepreneurship, and international development. Our success arises from solutions-focused, interdisciplinary research; an entrepreneurial approach that is embedded in every school and department; and a commitment to transform society in a positive way. To learn more about how Knowledge Enterprise is a place for your career to grow, visit https://research.asu.edu/about-us/careers.  

McCain Institute at Arizona State University is dedicated to building an inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly, we encourage you to apply anyway. We value your unique background and perspective, and you may be just the right candidate for this position or other roles on our team. 

Working at ASU has additional perks and OUTSTANDING benefits, which include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; sick leave and holidays; ASU/UA/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; state and optional retirement plans; access to ASU recreation and cultural activities; and more. To estimate the value of your total compensation, please visit https://cfo.asu.edu/compensation-estimator. 

Arizona State University is a new model for American higher education, an unprecedented combination of academic excellence, entrepreneurial energy and broad access. This New American University is a single, unified institution comprising four differentiated campuses positively impacting the economic, social, cultural and environmental health of the communities it serves. Its research is inspired by real world application blurring the boundaries that traditionally separate academic disciplines. ASU serves more than 100,000 students in metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona, the nation's fifth largest city. ASU champions intellectual and cultural diversity, and welcomes students from all fifty states and more than one hundred nations across the globe.

ASU is a tobacco-free university. For details visit https://wellness.asu.edu/explore-wellness/body/alcohol-and-drugs/tobacco

Arizona State University is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.

Notice of Availability of the ASU Annual Security and Fire Safety Report
In compliance with federal law, ASU prepares an annual report on campus security and fire safety programs and resources. ASU’s Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available online at https://www.asu.edu/police/PDFs/ASU-Clery-Report.pdf. You may request a hard copy of the report by contacting the ASU Police Department at 480-965-3456.

Relocation Assistance – For information about schools, housing child resources, neighborhoods, hospitals, community events, and taxes, visit https://cfo.asu.edu/relocation-services.