Director of Finance & Contract Operations - Akumen, Inc.

Director of Finance and Contract Operations

Overview:

The Director of Finance and Contract Operations will oversee Akumen's financial management and contract administration functions, ensuring compliance, accuracy, and efficiency in all related activities. Reporting to the Executive Director of Strategy & Operations, this role will play a pivotal part in aligning financial and contractual practices with Akumen's strategic objectives. The Director will also provide regular financial insights to the CEO to support company-wide decision-making.

Responsibilities:

Financial Management:

• Oversee all financial operations, including accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and general ledger management.
• Ensure compliance with Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) regulations and other federal requirements.
• Prepare and present financial reports, budgets, and forecasts to the CEO, Executive Director, and other leadership to support strategic decision-making.
• Lead audits (DCAA and external) and ensure timely resolution of findings.
• Manage bank reconciliations, journal entries, and month-end/year-end financial closing processes.
• Provide financial insights and recommendations directly to the CEO for aligning company finances with organizational goals.

Contract Administration:

• Manage the lifecycle of government contracts (CPFF, T&M, FFP, IDIQ) from award to close-out.
• Ensure contract compliance and support contract modifications, budget tracking, and cost analysis.
• Serve as the primary liaison with customers, subcontractors, and auditors for contract-related matters.
• Develop and maintain efficient contract management systems using Unanet to streamline workflows.

Operational Support:

• Collaborate with program managers to monitor project costs, budgets, and performance metrics.
• Supervise and mentor finance and contract staff, fostering professional development.
• Work closely with the Executive Director of Strategy & Operations to align operational practices with strategic goals.
• Contribute to the development of corporate policies and procedures to enhance operational efficiency.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent experience). Advanced education or certifications (e.g., CPA) preferred.
• At least 10 years of progressive experience in finance and government contract administration, with significant leadership experience.
• Proficiency in Unanet, Microsoft Office Suite, and financial reporting systems.
• Strong knowledge of FAR/DFARS compliance and DCAA regulations.
• Exceptional organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work collaboratively across teams.

Reporting Relationship: This position reports directly to the Executive Director of Strategy & Operations and collaborates closely with the CEO to provide financial insights and strategic recommendations.

Akumen is a leading management and technology consulting firm that specializes in serving the federal government. We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.