Chief of Staff Provost Office

Application Deadline: Friday, February 28th

About the Role:
We are seeking a highly skilled and strategic Chief of Staff to support the Provost's Office at University of Richmond. As a key partner and trusted advisor to the Provost, the Chief of Staff will work closely with the Provost and Associate Provosts to manage complex projects, drive academic and institutional priorities, advance operational and communications excellence, and ensure the smooth functioning of the Provost's Office.

This leadership role will act as a critical liaison between the Provost and Academic Deans, VP for Planning and Policy, Institutional Effectiveness (IFX), Office of Planning and Budget, other academic affairs leaders, and faculty and staff. The Chief of Staff will play an essential role in facilitating communication, decision-making, operational acumen, and the execution of strategic initiatives that further the University's academic mission.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as a strategic partner and advisor to the Provost ensuring alignment of priorities across the university.
• Manage complex projects and initiatives, overseeing their successful execution and impact.
• Foster collaboration and communication among the Provost, Associate Provosts, Deans and other academic affairs units.
• Provide high-level support in the preparation of presentations, reports, and other key communications.
• Facilitate decision-making processes and ensure efficient operations within the Provost's Office.
• Develop and implements communications strategy for the Provost's Office, including messaging to faculty, staff, and students, managing board communications, and aligning messaging with the President's Office.
• Serve as a member of University Communications' editorial committee and storyboard group and other communications and marketing- based committees as needed.
• Work in partnership with Human Resources and IFX to ensure effective administration of faculty administrative services, including hiring processes and policies related to hiring, retirement and faculty benefits.
• Collaborate with key campus partners including the offices of Budget and Planning, Emergency Management, Facilities, and Campus Operations.

Qualifications:

• Proven success in administration and strategic planning, organizational development, and leading teams effectively.
• Demonstrated success in communications strategy and implementation.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion within teams and across constituent groups.
• Proven ability to solve complex problems, analyze data, and lead successful projects and initiatives.
• Strong integrity, sound judgment, advocacy, and the ability to represent units professionally and ethically.
• Proven success in negotiation, consensus-building, and fostering community across diverse stakeholder groups.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate the complexities of higher education environments and institutional structures.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Ability to lead complex initiatives that support the academic mission in higher education.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders.
• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Critical and strategic thinking with solutions-oriented approaches to institutional challenges.
• Strong leadership skills, with experience managing teams and promoting cross-departmental collaboration.
• High level of discretion and confidentiality, with an understanding of the sensitive nature of the Provost's work.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other relevant software tools.
• Exceptional strategic communication skills for crafting messages that align with institutional goals and address high-stakes issues.
• Deep understanding of higher education governance, structures, regulations, and practices.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment while maintaining a collaborative approach to problem-solving.

Education & Experience:

• Advanced degree required; terminal degree strongly preferred.
• At least 7 years of experience in academic administration, including a proven record in leadership, strategic planning, and project management.
• Previous experience in a senior administrative role at a university or higher education institution is preferred.

Work Schedule:
Monday-Friday, 8:30 am-5:00 pm, with occasional evening and weekend work required.

Salary Structure:
Pay Grade 10 (Hiring Range: $88,109 to $154,211 annually)

Why Join Us:
At University of Richmond, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our academic programs and advancing the university's mission. We offer a dynamic and supportive work environment where innovation, collaboration, and leadership are highly valued.

How to Apply:
Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume, and cover letter through our online application portal by Friday, February 28th.