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Job Description:

It is an especially exciting time at Brown University and the School of Engineering where together, we are leading efforts to enhance academic excellence through innovative education and increased interdisciplinary research to address complex societal challenges. We are pleased to announce an excellent opportunity for a new Executive Dean of Finance and Administration to join our dynamic team and mission-driven organization to help us shape a community that is essential for educating and preparing future engineers.

The Executive Dean of Finance and Administration is the chief operating and financial officer for the School of Engineering. The Executive Dean will have oversight of financial management and processes across the School, including the centers, research groups, and IMNI. The Executive Dean is a strategic leader and ensures the successful implementation of new processes, procedures, and organizational structure. The Executive Dean provides leadership and is a change agent, creating a dynamic and flexible administrative and financial structure to support the School as it grows. The Executive Dean will drive operational and financial excellence.

Reporting to the Dean of the School of Engineering and a member of the Dean’s Executive Committee/Leadership Team, the position has overall responsibility for a budget of approximately $80 million including sponsored funding and total staff of approximately 90. The School of Engineering’s budget is independent from the University and will increase with fundraising and research growth. The Executive Dean will be responsible for managing the financial planning in this growth period for the School. The Executive Dean leads and directs the School’s offices and positions responsible for administrative support, diversity and inclusion, educational initiatives, communications and external relations, financial planning and analysis, fundraising, human resource management, facilities planning and management, research administration, risk management, strategic planning, computing & information services, faculty appointment processing and student affairs.

The Executive Dean works closely with the School’s Leadership and Management Teams to ensure programs and services are aligned with the School’s and University’s goals and initiatives, and operating in compliance with all relevant policies, state and federal regulations. The Executive Dean is responsible for ensuring the Dean of the School of Engineering and leadership has relevant information to inform decision-making.

The Executive Dean is the representative of the School at standing and ad-hoc committees. The Executive Dean works collaboratively with key members of the University leadership.

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance.

The successful candidate, as a minimum, should have the following background:

+ At least 15 years of progressively responsible financial, human resources, and operations management experience, ideally in an academic environment, along with higher education, and research institution experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

+ A Bachelor’s degree is required; an advanced degree -- MBA and/or other related advanced degree is preferred.

+ Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the principles, processes, and requirements of strategic planning, budgeting, financial planning and analysis, change management, and research administration, for an organization of similar size and complexity of funding streams.

+ Data analytics skills, evidenced by a nuanced understanding of empirical analysis and a track record of applying such skills to drive operational decisions.

+ Knowledge of grants administration and fund accounting, including direct and indirect cost allocation; a keen understanding of academic University Human Resources systems and an appreciation for the distinct provider components. Knowledge of the funding of graduate education, especially in STEM.

+ Demonstrated leadership ability with a proven record of success in communicating to and working with all levels of a rapidly changing organization.

+ Strong interpersonal skills; a record of integrating and unifying individuals with diverse agendas around creative solutions to difficult problems.

+ Strong supervisory and management skills and commitment to developing and motivating a large and diverse team.

+ Proven ability to facilitate and reach consensus in committee structure, with senior administration and with peers both internally and externally.

Please submit a cover letter, specifying which position you are applying to and a resume with your application.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a criminal background check and education verification satisfactory to Brown University.

For current information on Brown's vaccine requirements and other community health matters, please refer to the Healthy Brown website.

Why Brown?

Brown University is a leading research university that is distinct for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty, and staff are driven by the idea that their work will impact the world.

Brown University offers a flexible work/life balance, summer hours, winter break, and a comprehensive Benefits package, including time off and annual paid holidays. Benefit offerings include health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts, and more.

Benefits of Working at Brown:

Information on the Benefits of Working at Brown can be found here (https://www.brown.edu/a-z/benefits-working-brown) .

Recruiting Start Date:

2025-10-14

Job Posting Title:

Executive Dean Finance & Administration

Department:

School of Engineering

Grade:

Grade 14

Worker Type:

Employee

Worker Sub-Type:

Regular

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

37.5

Position Work Location:

Hybrid Eligible

Submission Guidelines:

Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any staff position at Brown University you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application.

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact [email protected].

EEO Statement:

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.