Executive Director, Pre-Award Research Administration

About the role

The Office of Research Administration at the University of Miami seeks an Executive Director to lead its Pre‑Award function. This senior leader will provide strategic oversight for all proposal submissions and related administrative actions before award acceptance, ensuring compliance with university policies and external regulations.

Key responsibilities

• Lead teams that review, approve, and submit proposals for sponsored awards.
• Act as liaison with external funding agencies and identify new funding opportunities.
• Serve as the Authorized Organization Official for sponsor‑system submissions and other pre‑award actions.
• Develop and maintain relationships with the Office of General Counsel, Tech Transfer, Business Services, and departmental leadership.
• Recruit, train, mentor, and evaluate staff, removing obstacles to organizational effectiveness.
• Design and implement procedures to improve efficiency, internal controls, and the faculty experience.
• Monitor regulatory trends, update policies, and provide training on compliance.
• Coordinate documentation, approvals, record‑keeping, data quality, and reporting for internal and external stakeholders.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in research administration, preferably in a university setting.
• Deep knowledge of federal regulations such as 2 CFR 200 (Uniform Guidance) and the FAR.
• Proven leadership ability to manage large, cross‑functional teams.
• Strong communication and relationship‑building skills with internal and external partners.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape the university’s research mission at a senior level.
• Collaborative environment with academic and administrative leaders.
• Access to professional development and mentorship programs.