Emory updates policy regarding contract agreements on behalf of the university
November 10, 2026
Emory University made a significant update to Policy 1.2: Contract Approval and Signature Authority that became effective Sept. 3, 2026. The updated policy establishes clear requirements regarding who is authorized to enter into agreements on behalf of Emory and strengthens accountability for contract approvals and signature authority.
This policy update applies to all faculty and staff who currently enter into, review, approve or may be involved in agreements on behalf of Emory.
Why this matters
Contracts and other agreements can create significant legal, financial and reputational obligations for the university. The updated policy provides greater clarity around contract ownership, signature authority and the delegation process to help ensure agreements are executed appropriately and in compliance with university requirements.
What has changed
Key updates to the policy include:
- A new Authorized Delegated Signature Authority Matrix that clearly defines who may enter into agreements on behalf of Emory.
- Only employees in designated roles and with a formal delegation letter on file are authorized to sign agreements on behalf of Emory.
- A formalized sub-delegation process to ensure consistency and adherence to established protocols.
- Required training for all employees with delegated signature authority before they may sign agreements.
- Centralized oversight by the university’s Finance Division, which now owns the policy, manages delegation records, and will provide training and implementation support.
Next steps
If your role involves entering into agreements, engaging vendors, approving contracts or otherwise obligating Emory, please review the updated policy and confirm whether you have the appropriate authority before signing or committing Emory to any agreement.
Employees who do not have delegated signature authority may not enter into agreements on Emory’s behalf.
Current delegations remain valid through Dec. 31, 2026, unless an earlier expiration date applies. Updated delegations/sub-delegations are required to be submitted by Dec. 31, 2026.
To learn more, review Policy 1.2: Contract Approval and Signature Authority and visit the Contract Approval and Signature Authority webpage. These resources provide important information about the policy, implementation requirements, signature authority delegations, required training and available toolkits. Whether you are responsible for entering into agreements or supporting the contract approval process, these materials will help ensure you understand your responsibilities and comply with Emory's updated requirements.
Email the Finance Division with any questions or to ask for assistance.
