Executive Director, Dialogue Vanderbilt

Position Summary:

Dialogue Vanderbilt is a university-wide initiative to advance Vanderbilt’s long-held values of free expression and civil discourse through a series of programs designed to foster a culture of open dialogue, respectful disagreement and intellectual curiosity. Dialogue Vanderbilt programs include the Vanderbilt Project on Unity and American Democracy, the Open Dialogue Visiting Fellows Program, the Vanderbilt Civil Discourse Lab and through a partnership with StoryCorps, the One Small Step Program. In addition, a thirty-member student advisory board plays an active role in shaping programming, engaging with guests and piloting new efforts. Vanderbilt is recognized as a national leader for its work in civil discourse and Dialogue Vanderbilt is a key university priority. 

The Executive Director of Dialogue Vanderbilt is a strategic leader responsible for the design and execution of Dialogue Vanderbilt’s programming and events. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of current events, a proactive approach to program development, strong relationship-building skills, and the ability to foster collaboration both internally and externally. The Executive Director will work closely with the faculty involved in the programming and interface with many stakeholders throughout the university. This position reports directly to the Vice Chancellor for Administration.

About the Work Unit:

The Division of Administration at Vanderbilt University is committed to upholding the University's vision by excelling in management, strategic initiatives, and operational success. The unit, which includes Vanderbilt University Public Safety, Auxiliary Services, the Office of Equal Access, Dialogue Vanderbilt and other strategic initiatives, such as Vanderbilt University-NYC, embodies the core values and mission of the university, working closely with key stakeholders to address complex issues that span across the University and its affiliates.

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

• Provide leadership and oversight for Dialogue Vanderbilt, ensuring alignment with institutional goals, mission and the Chancellor’s vision.
• Drive the day-to-day operations of Dialogue Vanderbilt, a large and multifaceted program with components that engage students, faculty, and administrators.
• Oversee program management of core Dialogue Vanderbilt programs such as the Civil Discourse Lab and One Small Step, including implementation with cross-functional teams.
• Work closely with faculty director of Dialogue Vanderbilt to build a faculty advisory board and integrate Dialogue Vanderbilt into academic settings.
• Motivate and support Dialogue Vanderbilt team members as they navigate the university environment.
• Build relationships throughout the university; interface with other departments on behalf of Dialogue Vanderbilt, managing information flow and enhancing organizational visibility. 
• Ensure clear communication of key issues and results organization-wide, maintaining strong advisory relationships with key administrative offices.
• Build and maintain relationships with a wide vast range of external stakeholders, speakers, and leaders driving strategic mission-oriented partnerships.
• Create innovative educational programs, speaker series, and public events, orchestrating a dynamic roster that reflects a broad range of differing perspectives.
• Evaluate program impact through data and metrics analysis, continually assessing and reporting on outcomes. 
• Oversee the execution of dozens of events per year, ranging from small dialogues to 1000 person VIP speaker events.
• Interface with VIPs to design and arrange their visits to campus, ensuring a positive experience for all involved.
• Supervise 2-3 staff members who assist with event execution, marketing and student programs.
• Attend Dialogue Vanderbilt events, including some nights and weekends.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Relationships:

This position does have supervisory responsibility, this position reports administratively and functionally to the Vice Chancellor for Administration.

Education and Certifications

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required. 
• A master’s degree in a related field is preferred.

Experience and Skills:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in a leadership role, preferably in higher education, strategic planning, program development, event management or public engagement.
• Proven track record in leading organizational change, managing complex projects, and navigating strategic priorities is necessary. 
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with high-level stakeholders and advance institutional priorities is necessary. 
• Strong communication, management, and problem-solving skills are essential. 
• Experience in creating and managing high-profile events or programs with minimal supervision is necessary. 
• Proficiency in data analysis and project management, with the ability to multitask in a dynamic environment, is necessary.