The Director of Shared Services is responsible for the design, implementation and execution of the Shared Services function through Lean and process improvement methods and techniques to identify ways we can work smarter and more efficiently to unlock value for our customers. The position will lead a team of 30+ junior to mid-level analysts who provide activities which include General Ledger entries, Accounts Payable functions and fixed asset responsibilities, as well as other shared services as identified through future customer value initiatives.

The position requires collaboration and partnership with all levels of the business and interacts directly with senior finance and business unit leaders to drive operational improvements to meet changing business unit and leadership demands.

• Builds world class functional operations in the Shared Service Center, ensure services defined in the service catalog are delivered at cost and quality levels consistent with Service Level Agreements
• Drives process improvement, sets targets for annual improvement and drives & supports efforts aimed at achieving these targets; ensures process consistency
• Measures performance, oversee meaningful regular discussions with Business Partners and coordinated with the Chief Accounting Officer
• Oversees technology initiatives and outsourcing as required, ensures technology is used to achieve efficiency and effectiveness goals. Leverages outsourcing opportunities as they arise
• Migrates work from legacy teams, oversees migration efforts from legacy teams to shared service organization
• Manages team according to Lean principles, ensures continuous improvement, processes standardization, visual management, metrics & performance drivers are a key component of team management
• Maintains a well-managed environment, maintains updated documentation and compliance with regulation & internal practices
• Influencing business decision-making process
• Leverages fact-base to influence business units as they go through their decision-making
• Maintains relentless customer service mentality and ensures customer requirements and SLAs are met
• Delivers continuous improvement of operations against benchmark best practice goals and metrics
• Develops, monitors, and reports detailed KPIs to business partners to ensure exceptional customer service
• Develops and implements action plans to improve performance results
• Ensures information delivered meets a threshold of accuracy and integrity of accounts and entries
• Manages talent by attracting, retaining and coaching junior and mid-level analysts and other professionals at the Shared Service Center (SSC)

Required

• Bachelor’s Degree required
• 5+ years of demonstrated experience leading a team in a high process, high production environment (e.g. shared service center, call center or similar)
• Strong knowledge and experience in accounting and finance.
• Experience in a service operations environment
• Experience in the development and implementation of metrics and standards
• Demonstrated ability to develop and lead a high performing team
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Strong process oriented and organizational skills
• Strong problem solving skills with the ability to navigate through a complex organization.
• Demonstrated ability to quickly learn and assimilate new information
• PC Tools Skills: Medium proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel
• Requires travel to NiSource facilities, up to 5-10% of the time

Preferred

• CPA, MBA or Accounting Degree
• Lean, Six Sigma experience or certification
• Prior experience in a Shared Services Center, Global Business Services Center or similar
• Prior experience in the Utilities sector
• Knowledge of regulated accounting environment (e.g. GAAP, FERC, DOE)
• Experience coaching and developing junior and mid-level staff
• Prior experience with automation of processes
• Familiarity with PowerPlant

Work Authorization

• Authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship.