Business Operations and Finance Manager, HBS Foundry at HarvardUniversity

Job Summary: The Business Operations and Finance Manager, HBS Foundry is responsible for leading and optimizing the department’s core administrative, financial, and operational functions. This role ensures efficient contract administration, accurate and timely invoice processing, strong budget tracking, support and preparation, and effective HR coordination. Acting as a trusted partner to Foundry leadership, the Business Operations and Finance Manager drives operational excellence, builds scalable processes, and ensures compliance with institutional policies and financial controls. This role requires a proactive, detail-oriented leader who can manage competing priorities while improving systems, managing budgets, and supporting team effectiveness.   Job-Specific Responsibilities: Financial Management & Budget Ownership • Lead annual budgeting, forecasting, and ongoing financial tracking for Foundry • Create budget projections, monitor performance, identify variances, and recommend corrective actions • Oversee expense management, ensuring alignment with financial policies and targets • Develop and maintain financial reporting and dashboards to support decision-making • Partner with central finance teams to ensure compliance and accurate financial operationsContract Administration & Procurement • Manage end-to-end contract lifecycle, including drafting, review, execution, and renewal tracking • Coordinate vendor onboarding and ensure adherence to procurement policies and standards • Support negotiation processes to achieve optimal cost, terms, and service outcomes • Maintain organized contract records and ensure compliance with institutional requirementsInvoice Processing & Payment Operations • Oversee invoice intake, review, coding, and submission for payment • Ensure timely and accurate processing of vendor payments and expense reimbursements • Serve as subject matter expert on financial systems and tools used for procurement and payments • Identify opportunities to streamline and improve invoice and payment workflowsHR Management & Talent Operations • Coordinate HR processes including hiring, onboarding, offboarding, and personnel changes • Partner with HR to support performance management, training, and employee development • Ensure compliance with HR policies, reporting requirements, and documentation standards • Support a positive, inclusive, and high-performing team cultureBusiness Operations & Process Optimization • Design, implement, and continuously improve operational processes and systems • Serve as the primary point of contact for operational inquiries within Foundry • Develop tools, workflows, and documentation to improve efficiency and transparency • Lead or support special projects aligned with departmental priorities • Ensure operational alignment with broader organizational policies and practices • Build trust and collaboration by being present on-site and engaging directly with colleagues and various constituents • This role is responsible for other duties as assigned