Head of Operations Lifelong, Interdisciplinary, and Digital Programming

Title: Head of Operations: Lifelong Interdisciplinary and Digital Programming

Executive Area: Academic Affairs

College/School/MBU: Admin Support Units

Department: Online Education

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule:Full time

Work Arrangement:Onsite

Job Summary

The Head of Operations serves as a strategic advisor and operational partner to the Vice Provost and units that comprise Lifelong Interdisciplinary and Digital Programming (U-LiID) a comprehensive portfolio with degree pathways alternative and non-traditional educational programming and all digital and online offerings of the university. This role leads executive-level initiatives manages cross-functional projects directs day-to-day operations and drives the execution of Vice Provost and university strategy and priorities.

Essential Functions

Serves as a key strategic aide to the Vice Provost for U-LiID who leads high-impact institution and community-valued initiatives programs and priorities.

Provides executive administration and strategic management for the Vice Provost including effective and efficient operations driven by fiscal choices personnel commitments academic priorities policy as well as program and initiative strategies.

Working closely with the Vice Provost and U-LiID leadership assesses and advises on impact of faculty and organizational structures and actions under applicable collective bargaining agreements and university policy; gives due consideration to sensitive information related to change management that drives innovation and fiscal sustainability.

Exercises independent judgment to develop recommendations with significant personnel fiscal policy and academic implications that advance university-wide portfolio strategy and revenue initiatives across diverse program offerings including Pre-College Early College Professional Programs micro-credentials and online modalities. Supports comprehensive portfolio planning and resource allocation that strengthens institutional competitiveness and reach through innovative delivery models and interdisciplinary programming.

On behalf of U-LiID strengthens relationships that align university priorities through diplomacy and consistent engagement and communication with the Provosts Office Office of the CIO/IT Administration & Finance Office of the Registrar IDEAS/CTL Enrollment Management Student Success Human Resources Institutional Research and other campus and university offices/institutes (e.g. Charles River Campus Henry M. Thomas Center at Springfield and the Donohue Institute etc.) as well as appropriate faculty leadership and governance.

In collaboration with the Vice Provost leads and project-manages high-priority efforts through tracking deliverables and success metrics; monitors progress; prepares reports to ensure timely execution and consistent messaging of institutional priorities and outcomes.

On behalf of the Vice Provost implements change management initiatives by coordinating stakeholder engagement training sessions conference/professional development activities including those that impact employee work practices and conditions including handling confidential information related to leadership decision-making and change management strategies.

Representing the Vice Provost manages a key of set of high-value/high-impact cross-function meetings that advance strategic priorities representing the impact of portfolio leadership (execution includes oversight of agendas scheduling and follow-up specific to deliverables).

Directs day-to-day operations including calendaring; ensures effective workflow communication and coordination across the Vice Provosts portfolio that includes maintaining and improving the efficiency and effectiveness of office systems and processes.

Supports personnel searches and procurement activities as needed.

Other Functions

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Understands is committed to and supports affirmative action and non-discrimination goals.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelors degree and more than 7 years of experience OR Masters degree and more than 5 years of related experience;

Strong facilitation analytical writing and interpersonal skills;

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in complex environment;

Experience handling confidential information with appropriate judgement;

Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in public higher education or public sector;

Experience working in a unionized environment;

Experience with incident management involving sensitive professional situations.

Additional Details

This position is subject to final budgetary and administrative approval.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a standard office or indoor university environment and involves minimal physical exertion.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

Monday-Friday 8:30AM-5:00PM

Salary Information

Pay Grade:PSSAP Grade 30

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Special Instructions for Applicants

Along with the online application please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide the contact information for three professional references.

This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.