Business Manager

The Institute of American Civics

The Institute is a natural extension of the work the Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy has done since its beginning, and the Institute is designed to build on the University of Tennessee's capabilities in politics, economics, philosophy, American history and American government. The legislated mission of the Institute is to provide a comprehensive civic education for University of Tennessee undergraduates and the state at large, including America's founding principles, the economic and political institutions that maintain American democracy and the basics of civic engagement.

About the Institute of American Civics

Since its founding in 2003, the Howard H. Baker, Jr. Center for Public Policy has served as the Knoxville campus's hub for civic engagement and education.

In 2022, legislation creating the Institute of American Civics received strong bipartisan backing in the 112^th Tennessee General Assembly.

Lawmakers from both parties spoke in favor of the Institute's mission to strengthen civic education and participation while reviving thoughtfulness, civility and respect for opposing viewpoints in national discourse. Senator Baker's legacy of conciliation and respect for opposing viewpoints, along with his deep patriotism and commitment to public service, provide an ideal foundation for the Institute's activities.

Who We Are

We are a dynamic and close-knit team of dedicated and hardworking individuals who are devoted to research, education, and public service initiatives that address real world problems in local, state, national, and global communities. Each member of our team is a valuable contributor to achieving our mission and we work together to find innovative approaches to moving the Center forward. We are fast-moving and growing. Our work is constantly evolving to meet changing needs.

Who We Are Looking For

We are in search of a solution-finder, someone who enthusiastically embraces opportunities to address novel situations through teamwork and collaboration. We need a hardworking and flexible professional, who thrives in developing out-of-the-box approaches to addressing new challenges. We are looking for an achiever, someone who is searching for a chance to grow their skills and who is open to learning from others. We need a critical thinker who exercises good judgment and who can be relied upon and trusted to provide sound counsel to colleagues and leadership. We need a teammate who is dedicated to public service.

Description: This Business Manager serves as an integral member of the Institute of American Civics finance and administrative team. The Business Manager serves as an expert financial and administrative resource while providing professional guidance and management of all financial and administrative processes. This position assists with fiscal operations including, but not limited to, the oversight of budgets, financial planning, and other financial and accounting operations as assigned by the Institute. The position also provides assistance with human resources activities, human capital budgeting, and other human resource operations. The Business Manager will provide direction on the development and implementation of administrative improvement initiatives, departmental policies and budget planning. This position will monitor and ensure that departments and units comply with relevant University and department policies and procedures and external regulations. Additionally, the Business Manager will work closely with the finance and human resource specialist of the Center, providing guidance and backup for processes. Working with the Executive Director of the Institute, the Business Manager will provide guidance and expert advice in formulating strategic plans and priorities. Duties include financial modeling, forecasting, and developing and disseminating data to inform decision making across the Institute. The Business Manager is responsible for ensuring division-wide adherence to university HR and fiscal policies and developing innovative solutions to enhance operational and technological efficiencies to provide "best practices."