New

Director of Operations and Special Projects

University of Kansas
United States, Kansas, Lawrence
1450 Jayhawk Boulevard (Show on map)
May 23, 2025
Position Overview Reporting directly to and serving at the pleasure of the Vice Chancellor for Research (VCR), the Director of Operations and Special Projects (DOSP) serves as the VCR's principal liaison, both internally and externally. This role ensures the operational efficiency of the KU Office of Research (KUOR), leads process improvement efforts, and aligns operational functions with KUOR's strategic goals. The DOSP plays a critical role in advancing the VCR's vision and priorities by coordinating strategic operations, tracking key initiatives and projects, and fostering alignment across the KUOR leadership team and staff. The DOSP maintains frequent communication with the VCR to remain informed of evolving priorities, enabling them to provide informed counsel and, when authorized, act or communicate on the VCR's behalf. Working independently and exercising sound judgment, discretion, and decision-making, the DOSP provides comprehensive support to the VCR across a wide range of operational areas including human resources, IT, compliance, facilities, and strategic initiatives. The DOSP also coordinates communications and logistics for internal and external stakeholders to promote transparency, collaboration, and institutional alignment. The role requires building and sustaining strong partnerships with university offices. This is a full-time, in-office position with occasional responsibilities that may extend beyond standard working hours. The role demands a high level of confidentiality, professionalism, and attention to detail. Job Description 30% - Leadership and Strategy Lead the execution of strategic initiatives across the Office of Research, from concept and planning through implementation, evaluation, and logistics to promote collaboration and efficiency. Serve as a key advisor to the VCR and leadership team, offering strategic advice on wide ranging issues and providing guidance on navigating unexpected challenges or opportunities. Represent the VCR in responding to routine inquiries and requests; partner with communications staff to develop materials promoting KUOR priorities and achievements. Collect and analyze stakeholder feedback to guide continuous improvement of strategic initiatives. Design and implement process improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and resource utilization. Research and apply innovative strategies and best practices to optimize organizational performance. Develop and implement operational policies and best practices to improve productivity, support university-wide priorities, and ensure alignment with institutional goals. 25% - Project Support and Change Management Lead and manage new initiatives, programs, or projects as directed by the VCR. Manage complex projects involving organizational change and multiple stakeholders. Partner with the VCR and executive assistant to align scheduling with strategic priorities; ensure the VCR is fully prepared for meetings, events, and engagements by providing relevant materials and briefings. Review and coordinate the VCR's calendar and commitments to maintain alignment with key goals and project timelines. Prepare and maintain reports, correspondence, records, and digital tracking systems to support informed decision-making and accountability. Take on special assignments from the VCR or senior leadership, ensuring timely and high-quality execution. 20% - Research Data Reporting and System Support Manages the Research Data Reporting and System Support team, consisting of the Data Analytics & Integrity group and the System/Functional Administration group. Coordinates the implementation, maintenance, and integrity of complex information-gathering, reporting and analysis, and workflow/communication systems that support organizational services. Ensures the integration of these reporting and system teams with central KU data and IT offices. Serve as primary liaison between KUOR Research Data Reporting and System Support team, AIRE, and KUIT. 15% - Operational Liaison Manage staffing processes by coordinating with the HR liaison to post vacancies, screen applications, conduct interviews, and facilitate hiring and onboarding activities. Coordinate and liaise with Faculty Affairs to manage faculty appointment, review, and promotion processes. Coordinate and liaise with Facilities to schedule and manage research facilities meetings and projects. Foster a high-performing, collaborative team environment through mentorship, coaching, and effective leadership. Collaborate with the VCR to establish goals, policies, and service standards for administrative support. Ensure accurate and up-to-date position descriptions; address performance issues and administer disciplinary actions as necessary. Monitor and continuously improve workflows and processes to enhance operational efficiency and service quality. 10% - Other Duties as Assigned Support emerging priorities and special projects as directed by the VCR, demonstrating flexibility and responsiveness to organizational needs to ensure the success and continuity of KUOR operations. Position Requirements This position is on-site. Required Qualifications Master's degree and 5 years of related experience OR Bachelor's degree and 7 years of related experience in project management or academic leadership. Five years of progressive leadership responsibility as demonstrated through career progression history, interview, and references. One year experience with project management and reporting. One year supervisory experience. Excellent writing and communication skills as evidenced in application materials and confirmed by references. Experience in handling sensitive and confidential information with discretion and integrity as evidenced by past positions or references. Preferred Qualifications Project management certification. JD, or other professional terminal degree. Experience in a leadership role in higher education administration as evidenced by previous work history. Previous experience in data interpretation and collection, as evidenced by application materials. Previous work experience that required strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. Previous work experience managing multiple priorities and tasks simultaneously. Previous work experience that required interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build key relationships and communicate effectively with all levels of the organization and stakeholders. Additional Candidate Instructions In addition to the online application, the following documents are required in order to be considered for this position: resume cover letter list of three professional references Review of applications begins on June 1, 2025. To ensure consideration, please apply prior to this date. Contact Information to Applicants Theresa Woolley theresa.woolley@ku.edu Advertised Salary Range Starts at $110,000 Application Review Begins Sunday June 1, 2025 Anticipated Start Date Tuesday July 1, 2025