Manage complex, institution-wide strategic initiatives requiring cross-unit coordination and accelerated timelines.
Develop comprehensive project plans, charters, timelines, workflows, and accountability structures.
Manage and coordinate leaders across academic and operational divisions, ensuring alignment of priorities, information flow, and timely decision-making.
Synthesize feedback and operational details from multiple units and translate them into clear, actionable recommendations, as appropriate.
Anticipate barriers, propose innovative solutions, and maintain momentum toward 'go-live.'
Serve as a connector across university divisions, academic schools, governance bodies, and executive leadership to ensure alignment and clarity.
Facilitate cross-functional meetings and working groups, guiding leaders toward consensus and unified institutional direction.
Gather, analyze, and integrate input from unit leaders to produce concise summaries and recommended courses of action.
Engage stakeholders early to secure institutional buy-in and ensure transparent communication of all decisions and timelines.
Translate complex executive decisions into actionable, well-structured workflows for cross-functional teams.
Prepare recommendations for the Vice Chancellor of Institutional Effectiveness and Chief Strategy Officer and other senior leaders as appropriate based on synthesized input from multiple divisions and diverse perspectives, highlighting options, impacts, and readiness considerations.
Provide concise executive-level briefings, reports, and presentations.
Maintain proactive, clear communication with all levels of the university to ensure shared understanding of timelines, deliverables, and decisions.
Ensure project plans incorporate federal regulations, accreditation standards, and governance requirements.
Collaborate with Academic Affairs, Financial Aid, Enrollment, Registrar, and Student Success to align compliance and operational requirements.
Translate regulatory and accreditation requirements into clear action steps for team leads and unit leaders.
Perform other duties, as assigned.

Requirements

5-7 years' experience in project management or strategic operations, with increasing responsibility, preferably in higher education.
Bachelor’s degree required.
Master’s degree preferred in higher education, organizational leadership, or related field.
PMP Certification or similar certification preferred.
Demonstrated knowledge of non-traditional and online models serving working adult learners.
Demonstrated knowledge of institutional planning, project lifecycles, including workflow design, timeline development, and cross-functional implementation.
Strong analytical skills, with exceptional judgment and the ability to support rapid decision-making.
Excellent communication and facilitation skills able to engage stakeholders at all levels.
Strong proactive leadership skills that promote innovative problem-solving and outside-the-box thinking.
Proven ability to coordinate and influence leaders at all levels across all university divisions.
Proven ability to think proactively, strategically, and creatively to overcome barriers.
Proven ability to navigate ambiguous, fast-paced environments and guide teams through change.

Benefits

Health: Medical, dental, and vision coverage with spending account options.
Work-Life Balance: Flexible schedules, 1/2 day Fridays (biweekly), remote options, generous time off, and a paid winter break.
Financial Security: Life, disability, and supplemental insurance, legal and identity protection, and student debt support.
Retirement: 403(b) plan with a Roth option. 3% non-elective contribution and up to a 6% match for a 9% total employer contribution!
Education: Tuition discounts for employees and family and Tuition Exchange program with other universities.
Wellness: Counseling services, Calm app access, and year-round wellness programs.

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard skills

project managementstrategic operationsworkflow designtimeline developmentcross-functional implementationanalytical skillsdecision-makinginstitutional planningregulatory requirementsaccreditation standards

Soft skills

communication skillsfacilitation skillsleadership skillsproblem-solvingstrategic thinkingcreativitystakeholder engagementinfluenceproactive thinkingadaptability

Certifications

PMP CertificationMaster’s degree in higher educationMaster’s degree in organizational leadership