News by Council/Committee
news
August 8, 2006
The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, Inc. ("AURA"), founded in 1957, is a consortium of universities, as well as educational and other non-profit institutions that operates world-class astronomical observatories available for use by all qualified researchers and serves the community through public outreach and education. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., our members include 32 U.S. institutions and 7 international affiliates. Through contracts with government agencies, including the National Science Foundation and NASA, AURA currently operates the following centers: Gemini Observatory in Hawaii and Chile, National Optical Astronomy Observatory/National Solar Observatory in Arizona, Chile, and New Mexico and Space Telescope Science Institute, science operations center for the Hubble Space Telescope, in Maryland. We view ourselves as acting on behalf of the science communities that are served by our centers, and as trustees and advocates for the centers' missions. Our mission is "To promote excellence in astronomical research by providing access to state-of-the-art facilities."
We are currently seeking an experienced professional to serve as Vice President of Administration. This individual will be primarily responsible for overseeing the administrative functions of AURA including Finance and Accounting, Human Resources, Contracts, Risk Management, and Regulatory and Governance Compliance. Responsibilities include oversight of corporate office administrative operations as well as leadership in coordination of center administration. Proficiency with negotiating and interpreting contracts and agreements, particularly government contracts and insurance agreements, facilitating corporate and center operational issues, serving as a liaison with various governing boards and councils, managing inter-organizational projects, operations, policies and activities, providing guidance and interpretation on policy issues, access to legal counsel and business strategy initiatives to corporate and center management and overseeing relationships with insurers, auditors, consultants, etc. is critical to success in this position.
A Master's Degree in Business Administration and a minimum of an eight to ten year track record of success in a senior line or staff management capacity within an academic credential rich environment and in depth knowledge of United States Government Contract regulations (an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience will be considered) are a must. The ability to successfully manage and maintain momentum with multiple projects is essential. The position requires the ability to generate creative and innovative results, a high standard of ethical behavior that engenders trust, strong negotiation, interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to thrive in a complex and evolving environment. The position will require travel, nationally and internationally, 15-20% of the time. The ideal candidate will have experience and familiarity with science and engineering management issues especially within the context of astronomical science. Proficiency in Spanish is a plus. AURA offers an exceptional compensation and benefits package. Consideration of applications will begin 21 August 06 and will continue until the position is filled. Interested applicants should forward resume with salary requirement to:
E-mail resume to: execjob@stsci.edu
or Mail to:
VP for Administration Search Committee
Human Resources, Req. # 517
1212 New York Avenue, Ste 450
Washington, DC 20005
Minorities and women are strongly encouraged to apply. EEO/M/F/D/V
