Contract Approval and Signature Authority
Emory University policy 1.2 outlines who may sign agreements with outside organizations on behalf of Emory and the responsibilities that accompany this authority.
Policy 1.2 Contract Approval and Signature Authority
What is an agreement?
"Agreement": Any written arrangement or instrument that creates, or may create, a financial obligation, legal commitment, or institutional risk on behalf of the University, including contracts, amendments, statements of work, purchasing agreements, memoranda of understanding, licenses, and similar documents.
Every agreement signed on Emory’s behalf carries risk to the University. This policy ensures the right people authorize the right commitments and that agreements follow established governance processes and applicable University policy and oversight requirements.
Who is authorized to sign an agreement?
Only Emory employees in specified roles (outlined in the authorized delegated signature authority matrix) WITH formally documented and delegated authority may approve or sign agreements on Emory's behalf.
Signature Authority Delegation Process
As established by policy 1.2, letters that delegate signature authority must be collected, stored, and maintained.
Process Overview
| Steps | Description |
| 1. Review signature authority needs | Identify the roles within your unit that require delegated/sub-delegated signature authority. |
| 2. Complete delegation letter(s) | Use the authorized delegated signature authority matrix and standard template to document delegated authority. |
| 3. Obtain required signatures | Ensure all required approvals and acknowledgements are completed before submission. |
| 4. Submit through the central process | Send completed delegation/sub-delegation letters to finance@emory.edu. Required subject line: Signature Authority Submission | School/Unit Name | FY27 |
| 5. Respond to validation requests | Address any questions or corrections identified during the review process. |
| 6. Complete all required training | Ensure all delegates complete signature authority training before Jan. 1, 2027. |
| 7. Maintain & update | Submit updates when roles, authority levels, or organizational structures change. Complete annual attestation when contacted by the Finance Division. |
Resources
Related links:
Contact the Finance Administration & Initiatives team by emailing finance@emory.edu for help with the signature authority delgation process.