Research Finance Manager Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Duke University:

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As the Financial Management Analyst III (Working Title: Associate Director, Area Management Center), you'll be a vital part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team that provides high-level financial leadership across the Provost organization.

The Associate Director plays a key role in advancing Duke's academic mission through expert financial management, strategic analysis, and thoughtful consultation. Your work will strengthen fiscal accountability, support complex decision-making, and ensure sound stewardship of University resources.

• Guide unit leadership through complex financial analysis and budget preparation including annual budgets, projections, long-range planning, and capital planning.
• Track financial performance, analyze trends, and prepare materials for senior leadership.
• Provide guidance on Provost and University financial policies, accounting compliance, and budget practices.
• Review monthly financial performance including variance analysis, overdrafts, and spending controls.

• Track and report on endowments, gifts, grants, and operating funds ensuring compliance and stewardship.
• Support year-end close processes, prepare documentation, and coordinate with central administration.
• Collaborate with grants administration on project closeouts, effort changes, and cost-sharing.
• Strengthen fiscal controls and identify risks across units including auxiliaries and international programs.

• Use SAP BW Analysis, SAP Portal, and SAP tools to develop monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports.
• Create standardized templates for variance reporting and financial oversight.
• Prepare unit-specific reporting and review insights with unit staff.
• Conduct financial modeling for new and existing programs, grants, academic initiatives, and international operations.

• Consult on business operations, payment processes, and administrative workflows.
• Recommend improvements to accounting structures, fund flows, and reporting impacts.
• Review domestic and international contracts with legal, finance, and academic partners.
• Recommend efficiencies in procurement, payments, and financial controls.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum of six years of experience in financial management, financial analysis, reporting, budgeting, and financial modeling, or equivalent education/experience.
• Excellent customer service skills and ability to work effectively with diverse groups.
• Ability to manage high-volume workload, multitask, and meet deadlines.
• Substantial familiarity with academic programs in higher education.
• Proficiency in Microsoft tools, advanced Excel, SAP, and Analysis for Office Reporting.
• Ability to interpret and present large data sets clearly for senior leadership.
• Strong communication, organizational, and administrative skills.

• Strong analytic and modeling skills; ability to manage complex budgets and commitments.
• Familiarity with Duke systems and policies.
• Experience in international operations and higher-education finance.
• Ability to analyze and resolve complex issues.
• CPA and/or MBA preferred.

Duke University provides an annual base salary range for this position of USD $74,251.00 to USD $139,220.00. Duke considers factors such as scope and responsibilities of the position; candidate experience, education, and key skills; internal equity; and market considerations when extending an offer.

Your total compensation goes beyond your paycheck. Duke provides comprehensive medical and dental programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs. Learn more at: https://hr.duke.edu/benefits/

Apply now and help us build a stronger, smarter, and more connected future.