Director of Business Operations, Comparative Medicine Animal Resource Program

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POSITION SPECIFICS The Director of Business Operations plays a key leadership role in supporting the strategic operations, compliance, and institutional alignment of the College of Medicine's comparative medicine animal research program. This position helps inform and execute the strategic direction of the program while ensuring the ethical and humane care of animals used in research, facilitating investigator success, and promoting institutional compliance with federal and state regulations. Specifically, the role will be responsible for: Strategic operations Identify opportunities for program growth, including expansion of facilities, services, and research capabilities Lead initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service delivery across animal care units Address programmatic changes as outlined in the comparative medicine review from Jan 2025 Create a data and technology support program to provide actionable insights into the strategic operations of the program Develop and leverage strategic partnerships with affiliated university programs, outside animal programs, and industry collaborators to standardize and streamline operations Financial management Steward and manage the finances of the animal resource program to ensure efficient and effective use of funds, increasing cost recovery, and proforma financial modeling Oversee and manage the annual cost recovery efforts including service line definitions, bill rate calculations and leadership approvals, and facility implementation Drive the annual business planning and budget process to support program growth and efficiency Review and manage financial performance details to derive actionable insights to inform strategy In concert with the director of ARP and facilities, develop long-range capital plan to support the program and oversee procurement and inventory management Institutional alignment Align program goals and offerings with institutional research priorities and strategic initiatives Collaborate with the Director and institutional leadership to develop long-term strategic plans for the animal research program, aligning with the universitys research priorities and compliance standards. Plans should address facility upgrades, staffing needs, and programmatic expansion Contribute to grant applications and funding proposals that support infrastructure and innovation Promote interdisciplinary research by facilitating access to shared animal resources and specialized services Continue and enhance culture of service Represent the program in institutional committees and external collaborations Compliance and education Support the Director in developing and implementing policies and procedures aligned with USDA, AAALAC, IACUC and other applicable standards Anticipate and address regulatory changes that may impact the program Work with the director to implement residency program changes from an operational, reporting, and financial perspective MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS Bachelor's Degree 8+ years of relevant experience, includes 3+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None Qualifications Experience in research administration or animal research programs (preferable in academic or biomedical settings) Proven ability to develop and execute strategic plans for complex programs Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills for working with faculty, leadership, and external partners Experience managing large programs with proven track record of enhancing program success and driving operational improvements Expertise in budgeting, cost recovery models, and financial forecasting Ability to implement technology solutions for data analytics and operational insights Preferred experience: Prior leadership in a comparative medicine or animal resource program Familiarity with animal care standards (AAALAC, IACUC, USDA, etc.) Experience supporting accreditation processes and compliance audits BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check. Due to the financial and fiduciary responsibilities of this position, successful completion of a credit history check will be required in addition to standard background checks. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. SALARY & BENEFITS The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $97,100.00 - $145,700.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here. EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. 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