The Special Assistant to the Vice President for Strategic Initiatives of Academic and Instructional Services (AIS) is an exempt position. The position reports directly to the Vice President in meetings, on committees, and in other functions as directed. The position will assist the Vice President in developing a vision and ensuring AIS’ positive contributions to the university system, including broad range of special initiatives. The Special Assistant has direct responsibility for the Office of USU-Online, serving its administrative lead and supervisor to all employees. Additionally, the position will have working, internal knowledge of all areas of responsibility within AIS and will be assigned a variety of leadership assignments related to AIS’ mission within the institution. Examples of focus areas will be: external partnerships/initiatives, academic program development, strategic planning and implementation, the teaching and learning ecosystem, and the assessment of AIS’ effectiveness in meeting its goals. The position will be held by someone who has broad higher education experience, advanced standing with peers and proved leadership and organizational qualities.
- Serve as the administrative lead for the Office of USU-Online
- Act in leadership role in a variety of assignments as directed by the VP
- Supervise directors, other exempt and non-exempt employees as required by the assignment(s)
- Work directly with the VP in developing a vision and strategy for AIS within the University system
- Serve on the administrative council for AIS and represent the VP as assigned
- Represent AIS on institutional committees, working groups, and special assignments
- Develop and nurture effective internal and external partnerships that advance the mission and goals of AIS and the university system
- Other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications
- Master’s degree in a related field plus 10 years of related experience
- Proven track record of successful leadership experiences, including exempt and non-exempt employees
- A deep knowledge of higher education, teaching, and learning
- Experience leading innovation in higher education
- Effective oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills
- Excellent customer service skills
- Experience supervising employees and managing systems
- Ability to work in a variety of settings (organizationally) with limited supervision
- Excellent problem solving skills
- Ability to be a team player and willing to work in a team environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Doctorate degree (or in process of attaining degree) in a related field plus 5 years of related experience
- Proven experience in developing, implementing, and leading significant initiatives in the higher education setting
- A demonstrable and deep understanding of the higher education teaching and learning ecosystem
- Successful experience leading and managing projects and personnel in an office setting
- Proven ability to work collaboratively with diverse constituencies as well as a member of a team
- High level of planning and organizational skills including the ability to follow through on assigned tasks and to complete projects on time
- Ability to innovate
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously with successful, measured outcomes