The expected pay range for this position is $120,276 to $135,000 per annum.
Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.
At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanford's extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.
Introduction
Stanford University seeks people committed to excellence and to improving our world and, in turn, is dedicated to supporting its employees as they develop their careers and enrich their lives.
Stanford's Business Affairs provides administrative policies, infrastructure, systems, services, and support for the benefit of the university community.
Financial Management Services (FMS), a department within Business Affairs, is responsible for creating an ecosystem which promotes innovative and sound financial administration policies and practices that balance controls, compliance, and customer service. FMS is primarily responsible for financial policy oversight, quality assurance and financial services at Stanford University and its affiliated entities. It also serves as a liaison to the hospitals and the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center (SLAC). The FMS work environment is grounded by core values that include cultivating growth, celebration and appreciation, and collaborating with curiosity in order to nurture an inclusive environment where everyone is valued, respected, and can thrive.
About Our Team: Gift Securities Operations
The Gift Securities Operations team is a vital partner in Stanford's philanthropic mission. We are the operational engine that ensures the seamless and secure management of complex gift securities. We are looking for a proven leader to enhance our capabilities and guide a team dedicated to operational excellence.
Our Mission: To manage complex gift securities with operational excellence, creating a seamless and fulfilling giving experience for every donor.
Our Vision: To define the future of philanthropic operations, leading the industry through innovative execution, compassionate partnership, and unwavering integrity.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Philanthropic Assets Team Manager is a hands-on leadership role responsible for managing, coaching, and developing a team of operations associates who handle the end-to-end processing of complex philanthropic assets for Stanford University. This position provides daily operational leadership while fostering a culture of excellence, precision, and continuous improvement.
Reporting to the Director as a key operational partner, this manager oversees the receipt and processing of publicly traded gift assets--including US equities, mutual funds, and securities on foreign exchanges--ensuring accuracy, security, and compliance at every step. The manager serves as the Director's operational backup for critical functions including gift approvals, liquidation decisions, sale instructions to brokers, and fund movements.
More than a supervisor, this role is a coach, process architect, and champion for operational excellence. The manager will also gain exposure to highly complex assets, such as private equity and cryptocurrency, by managing their documentation and submission processes in partnership with the Director.
This is a unique opportunity to shape a critical university function, build strong partnerships across Development and the Controller's Office, and lead a specialized team dedicated to supporting Stanford's philanthropic mission.
Your Core Responsibilities Will Include:
Team Leadership & Development:
Lead, coach, and mentor a team of 2-3 operations associates, with responsibility for performance management and career development. This role provides critical input and feedback on all hiring decisions to the Director.
Champion a culture of precision and professionalism in all internal and external communications, ensuring the team represents the high standards of Stanford.
Foster a collaborative environment focused on problem-solving, accountability, and continuous learning.
Operational Management & Process Improvement:
Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Gift Securities team, managing the end-to-end workflow to ensure gift assets are liquidated and processed accurately, securely, and on schedule.
Proactively analyze business processes to identify opportunities for improvement; design and propose solutions to enhance efficiency and mitigate risk; and collaborate with the Director to prioritize and implement them.
Serve as the primary subject matter expert for gift securities operations, resolving complex issues and providing alternative solutions as necessary.
Analyze operational data and trends to advise leadership and develop recommendations for staffing, technology, and administrative functions.
Analyze operational data and prepare management reports for the Director to support strategic decision-making and provide visibility into team performance.
May independently or in collaboration with human resources managers, guide analysts and associates in the interpretation and implementation of human resources policies, procedures and programs.
Stakeholder Partnership & Communication:
Serve as the primary operational liaison for publicly traded assets, managing relationships with Development Officers, brokerage partners, the Charitable Trust program, and donors to ensure a seamless gift experience.
Partner with the Director by coordinating documentation and communication flows for highly complex gifts, engaging with stakeholders such as the Office of Planned Giving and investment attorneys as needed.
Represent the program's business operations within the organization and to external constituencies, building and maintaining strong professional partnerships.
Serve as a resource to resolve accounting-related issues and ensure clear communication with local units and other departments.
Risk Management & Compliance:
Interpret, implement, and ensure compliance with university administrative policies, industry regulations, and data security protocols.
Partner with the Director to review non-public gift documentation, offering documents, and investment agreements to ensure proper application of terms and risk mitigation.
Identify gaps and recommend internal policies and guidelines to strengthen controls; collaborate with the Director and other university partners to develop and implement approved changes.
Note: Not all unique aspects of the job are covered by this job description
Ideal Candidate Profile
We recognize that exceptional candidates come from diverse backgrounds. To excel in this role, we are seeking professionals who bring at least two of the following three key qualifications:
1. People Management Experience (2-3 years)
Proven track record leading, coaching, and developing high-performing teams
Experience with performance management, conflict resolution, and talent development
Ability to foster a collaborative culture focused on accountability and continuous improvement
2.Higher Education or Nonprofit Experience (2-3 years)
Customer service or operations experience in a university, foundation, or nonprofit setting
Understanding of the philanthropic mission and donor relations
Ability to communicate with sensitivity and professionalism in an academic environment
3.Brokerage Back Office or Brokerage Operations Experience (1-2 years)
Knowledge of securities processing, custody operations, or investment back-office functions
Familiarity with publicly traded assets including equities, mutual funds, and other exchange-traded securities
Understanding of financial industry regulations and compliance requirements
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education & Experience:
Bachelor's degree and three years of people management experience in brokerage operations, higher education, or related fields, or a combination of education and relevant experience.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Demonstrated Supervisory Skills: Proven ability to lead, coach, and motivate a team, including conflict resolution and career development.
Impeccable Judgment: A track record of making sound business decisions, especially concerning risk management, data security, and donor confidentiality.
Exceptional Communication Skills: The ability to convey complex information with clarity, precision, and professionalism suitable for a high-caliber audience of alumni, donors, and financial professionals.
Operational & Analytical Mindset: Excellent planning and organizational skills with a passion for process improvement. Strong ability to analyze complex problems and develop innovative solutions.
Financial Acumen: A broad understanding of investment products, complex financial instruments, and the fundamentals of investment operations or custody environments. Knowledge of accounting principles is a strong plus.
Effective Interpersonal Skills: A collaborative nature with the ability to build strong working relationships with colleagues, clients, and external partners.
Proficiency with Technology: Strong expertise in business applications such as Microsoft Office (especially Excel) and Google Suite, with the ability to quickly learn new systems like Oracle.
In Addition, Preferred Qualifications Include:
1-2 years of experience in brokerage back-office operations or a related financial services field.
Experience working in a university or non-profit environment.
Demonstrated project management skills and experience as part of a project team.
A strong customer-oriented approach to managing solutions and partnerships.
Certifications and Licenses:
None
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*
Constantly perform desk-based computer tasks.
Frequently sitting.
Occasionally stand/walk, reach/work above shoulders, use a telephone, writing by hand, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 10 pounds;
Rarely twist/bend/stoop/squat, sort/file paperwork or parts, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh 11-20 pounds.
* - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
May work extended hours and require increased on-site presence during peak business cycles.
WORK STANDARDS:
Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned.
Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.
WHY STANFORD IS FOR YOU
Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and how it enriches the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture and unique perks empower you with:
Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or audit a course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.
A healthier you. Climb our rock wall or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits.
Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.
Redwood City. Our new Stanford Redwood City campus, which opened in 2019, is the workplace for approximately 2,700 staff, including FMS, whose jobs are important to supporting the university's mission.The campus will offer amenities such as onsite cafes and a dining pavilion, a high-end fitness facility with an outdoor pool, and a childcare center for Stanford families.
The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.
Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Why work at Stanford?Stanford University has changed the world, over and over again.We are one of Silicon Valley's largest employers - and also one of the most unique. Our mission is to educate future leaders and promote interdisciplinary, world-class research and teaching. This passion makes Stanford an intensely creative, rewarding, and challenging place to work. At the same time, our traditions of respect and collaboration sustain a humane, supportive environment in which to pursue your life and your career.At Stanford you'll work with bright, diverse, dedicated people. You'll find encouragement to learn and grow. You'll enjoy excellent benefits and an outstanding environment. How will it change you?
