Executive Director, Office of Institutional Research

Position Summary

The Executive Director of the Office of Institutional Research provides leadership to advance the strategic use of data and analytics at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC). This role is responsible for establishing and maintaining a data-driven culture that enhances decision-making across the institution. In collaboration with senior leadership the Executive Director oversees the development and management of UIC's data governance framework, institutional data infrastructure, and analytics strategy to ensure compliance, efficiency, and strategic alignment with the University of Illinois System and UIC's mission. Develops an actionable data and analytics strategy that includes clear metrics for measuring return on investment and business value of data and analytics initiatives. The Executive Director collaborates with senior leadership to define and implement strategic data initiatives, including the integration of predictive analytics, data integration, incorporation of AI into institutional data processes, and data literacy initiatives that drive long-term institutional success.

Duties & Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Data Governance

• Develop and execute a comprehensive institutional data strategy that aligns with UIC and University of Illinois System goals, ensuring seamless integration of core data models and fostering a culture of data-informed decision-making.
• Partner with the CIO, System Chief Data Officer, and other senior leadership at UIC and the University of Illinois System to implement federated data governance initiatives, ensuring consistency and compliance with federal and state regulations.

• Under the direction of senior leadership, establish a data governance initiative, which includes incorporating elements of federated data governance with the University of Illinois System.
• Establish a sustainable data literacy program to cultivate institutional analytical capability across the university, empowering stakeholders to leverage data effectively in operational and strategic contexts.

• In collaboration with the System Office and key UIC stakeholders, work to develop and implement the use of core data models.
• Work with executive leadership to enhance the use of data as an asset and to leverage data and analytics capabilities to maximize value. This includes efforts to scale the use of existing investments in data and analytics platforms.
• Centered within the context of institutional data, lead efforts to align institutional data management practices with evolving AI policies and procedures, safeguarding the quality, transparency, and ethical use of data in decision-making processes.

Institutional Research and Data Analytics

• Oversee the design, development, and maintenance of advanced analytical tools, dashboards, and visualization platforms to support data-driven insights and reduce ad hoc reporting demands.
• Direct large-scale, high-impact institutional studies to inform leadership decisions in regards to the establishment of policy, and resource allocation.
• Identify emerging trends and best practices in higher education analytics, assessment, and accreditation practices to ensure UIC maintains a competitive position among peer institutions.

Collaboration and Institutional Alignment

• Serve as a strategic advisor to senior leadership, providing actionable insights that inform institutional priorities and initiatives.
• Foster partnerships across academic, administrative, and system-level units to ensure seamless integration of data processes and alignment of institutional research with UIC’s strategic goals.
• Represent UIC in statewide and national higher education data initiatives, contributing expertise to advance institutional research practices and policies.

Operational Oversight and Financial Management

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the Office of Institutional Research, ensuring the effective execution of key initiatives and timely delivery of high-quality data solutions.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets, ensuring resource optimization and alignment with institutional priorities.

• Oversee staff recruitment, development, and performance management to cultivate a high-performing, collaborative team.

• Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.