Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Executive Director – Business Innovation

Vanderbilt University Medical Center

full-time

Posted on:

Location Type: Hybrid

Location: Nashville • Tennessee • United States

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Job Level

Lead

About the role

  • Define and lead DAR’s approach to business process improvement, aligning initiatives with strategic priorities and organizational goals.
  • Partner with DAR leaders to assess current-state operations, identify inefficiencies, and design scalable, sustainable solutions.
  • Develop and manage a prioritized portfolio of process improvement and innovation initiatives.
  • Apply structured methodologies to drive measurable gains in efficiency, effectiveness, and service.
  • Translate business needs into technology-enabled solutions that enhance operations and user experience.
  • Partner with technology teams to ensure tools and systems support optimized business processes.
  • Identify, evaluate, and implement emerging technologies—including AI, automation, and workflow tools—to improve performance and scalability.
  • Pilot and scale innovative solutions that support DAR’s evolving operational needs.
  • Ensure alignment between business processes, systems, and DAR strategic priorities.
  • Partner with leadership to identify opportunities for increased efficiency and effectiveness across functional areas.
  • Support implementation of university and DAR growth initiatives by aligning operational processes with strategic objectives.
  • Lead change management strategies to ensure the successful adoption of new processes, systems, and tools.
  • Collaborate with DAR Training and departmental leaders to design and deliver training programs and support resources.
  • Create communication plans, feedback loops, and adoption metrics to maintain the long-term success of implemented changes.
  • Partner closely with DAR stakeholders, including Data Strategy, our CRM VandyQuest Operations (VQO), and the Project Management Office (PMO), to align process, technology, and data efforts.
  • Act as a liaison across teams to ensure coordinated execution of cross-functional initiatives.
  • Work with Data Strategy leadership to ensure process improvements are driven by data insights and consistent with data governance practices.
  • Stay current on emerging trends in business innovation, automation, AI, and digital transformation.
  • Identify and introduce leading practices from higher education and other industries.
  • Foster a culture of innovation, experimentation, and continuous improvement across DAR.

Requirements

  • 10 years of progressively responsible experience in business process improvement, operations, innovation, or related fields, preferably in a complex organization such as higher education.
  • Demonstrated success leading cross-functional initiatives in matrixed environments.
  • Expertise in process improvement methodologies, change management, and organizational effectiveness.
  • Experience implementing technology-enabled solutions, including automation and workflow tools.
  • Ability to translate strategic goals into operational execution and measurable outcomes.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and facilitation skills.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to influence at all organizational levels.
  • High level of discretion and ability to manage sensitive, confidential information.
  • Demonstrated success in working across teams and disciplines – facilitating solutions, designing new ideas, and driving forward priorities.
  • Ability to work independently, take initiative, manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and adapt to ever changing priorities are essential
Benefits
  • Health insurance
  • 401(k) matching
  • Flexible work hours
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development opportunities
Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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

Hard Skills & Tools
business process improvementoperations managementchange managementprocess improvement methodologiestechnology-enabled solutionsautomation toolsworkflow toolsdata governanceanalytical skillsproblem-solving skills
Soft Skills
communication skillscollaboration skillsinfluence skillsfacilitation skillsinitiativeproject managementadaptabilitydiscretionleadershipcreativity