Director, Administration and Finance
Content + Source + Freshness • 14 Dec 2025 • 95% confidence
Offer value
High value based on the seniority of the role, outstanding reputation of the organization, and the extensive responsibilities in administration and finance.
- Responsible for vital operations at MIT’s Chemistry department
- Highly competitive compensation for senior roles
- Lead initiatives that shape finance and administration strategies
Pros
- Comprehensive oversight of a vital department in an esteemed institution
- Potential for significant impact on administrative and financial operations
- Excellent compensation package for qualified candidates
Cons
- High pressure due to the nature of the role
- Need for extensive experience may limit potential applicants
- Complex internal dynamics at the university
Who it's for
Senior/Management • Full-time/On-campus
Good fit
- Senior finance professionals with leadership experience
- Candidates passionate about academic administration
- Professionals who thrive in high-responsibility roles
Not recommended for
- New graduates with no executive experience
- Individuals seeking low-stress positions
- Candidates preferring remote work options
Motivation fit
Key skills
About the job
DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE , Chemistry , to serve as the department's senior operations administrator, with comprehensive responsibility for the administrative and financial operations, including finance, human resources (HR), events planning, communications, building operations, space allocation, academic operations, faculty affairs, and research administration. Responsibilities include working closely with the Department Head as a senior member of the department leadership team.
The full job posting is available here: https://science.mit.edu/contact/employment-opportunities/
REQUIRED : Bachelor's degree and a minimum of seven years of experience in an executive or management position for university administration; demonstrated leadership capabilities and ability to promote team-building and facilitate consensus; ability to effectively promote diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging; prior experience supervising staff including recruiting and selecting staff as well as managing their performance, training and professional development; diplomacy, tact, and discretion with sensitive and confidential matters; ability to work effectively and collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students; strong problem solving, goal setting, and decision-making skills; ability to manage conflicting and changing priorities; strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills; ability to develop, integrate and operationalize new concepts, guidelines, and policies; excellent written and oral communication skills; strong computer skills; experience with the latest financial and HR information systems and database software; advanced-level knowledge of databases, spreadsheets, and accounting principles; ability to meet deadlines and maintain excellent performance while under time pressure; and knowledge of financial and research administration in an academic or research environment with federal, corporate, and foundation sponsors. PREFERRED : Master's degree; MIT experience and knowledge of financial, HR, and operational systems; and experience with SAP, Brio Query/Cognos, COEUS, and Roles Database.
10/27/2025
