Deputy Director

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

The NC Collaboratory disseminates the policy and research expertise of the University for practical use by state and local government. A collaboratory is a center without walls in which researchers can perform their research without regard to physical location, interacting with colleagues, accessing instrumentation, sharing data and computational resources and accessing information in digital libraries in a collaborative manner.

The Deputy Director oversees the operational and administrative functions of the NC Collaboratory, directly supporting the Executive Director in managing a statewide research enterprise funded by the North Carolina General Assembly ( NCGA) under NCGS 116-255. This position ensures the effective execution of the Collaboratory's mission to address urgent and complex policy challenges through applied research and cross-sector collaboration.

Responsibilities include overseeing the design, implementation, and strategic direction of research initiatives across all Collaboratory-funded projects. The Deputy Director develops and executes strategic plans, identifies emerging areas for investment, legislative priorities and stakeholder needs. This includes managing a diverse portfolio of programs such as, but not limited to, opioid remediation, K-12 education, foster care reform, water quality, disaster recovery, energy innovation, and commercialization of IP/technologies developed across all Collaboratory-funded projects.

Other duties include supervising staff through performance management and fostering a high-performing, accountable team culture. The Deputy Director leads recruitment, professional development, and mentorship efforts, including oversight of staff managed by external consultants. Internally, the role manages personnel, budgets, and compliance; externally, it builds strong relationships with legislative leaders, grantees, university officials, State agencies, local governments, community organizations, and private businesses.

The position also manages the Collaboratory's grantmaking programs and research contracts, ensuring compliance with University, State, and federal regulations. Responsibilities include overseeing grant solicitations, negotiating terms, monitoring performance, and reviewing reports. The Deputy Director liaises with grantees, University leadership, and public sector partners to support communication and research dissemination. In collaboration with legal, finance, and program staff, the Deputy Director mitigates risks, streamlines processes, and maintains documentation to ensure transparency and accountability.

The position supports grantees and research partners by coordinating training sessions on research impact, public policy communication, and collaborative models such as research-practice partnerships. The Deputy Director contributes to legislative reporting, fundraising efforts, and the public representation of the Collaboratory.

As a key advisor and thought partner in guiding the future of the Collaboratory, the Deputy Director serves as acting director in the Executive Director's absence and is expected to uphold high standards of professionalism, accountability, and public service.

Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent research productivity or professional-level background in sponsored research administration, will accept a relevant Bachelor's degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution.

Progressive leadership experience within complex organizations. Demonstrated experience in organizational management, including strategic budgeting, human resources administration, performance management, and compliance oversight.

Strong understanding of the grantmaking process, State budget transfer and oversight, and demonstrated experience with contract, program and project management.

Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders, including State and local government agencies, University faculty and staff, nonprofit organizations, and policymakers. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex research into clear, policy-relevant insights and actionable outcomes.

Proven ability to collaborate across sectors, building consensus and driving cross-functional initiatives forward.

This position requires a strategic thinker with deep understanding of public policy, higher education research, and government operations, supported by a strong track record of organizational leadership and a demonstrated commitment to public service.

A doctoral or professional degree (e.g., PhD, JD) in public administration, public policy, law, social sciences, physical sciences, public health, or a closely related discipline.

Experience with progressive leadership within complex organizations, preferably in research, higher education, philanthropy, or a public sector setting. Experience in higher education grants management, preferably within one or more UNC System campuses. Familiarity with the UNC System and its governance structure.

Experience developing and managing public-private partnerships. Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and/or managing collaborative research across institutions.

Prior experience with the NC Collaboratory, including familiarity with its mission, mandate, and procedures, as well as experience navigating North Carolina's public policy landscape or managing State-funded research programs. Strong understanding of the NC Collaboratory's key program areas, such as opioid response, K-12 education, and environmental policy.

Knowledge of federal and State grant compliance regulations. Experience in higher education grants management, preferably within one or more UNC System campuses.

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The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.