Director of Institutional Research

The Director of Institutional Research provides leadership to structure a cohesive, comprehensive system for data collection and analysis to inform academic compliance and operational imperatives. The Director is responsible for facilitating an appropriate data framework to address data collection and integrity; operational definitions for institutional data use across the University; key questions to inform decision making, contribute to goal development and evaluate outcomes. S/he provides analytical guidance and direction on academic issues and matters to collect, analyze, and synthesize multiple data points for the purpose of guiding actionable improvements across the institution.

Position Accountabilities

Institutional Research Leadership 

• Oversee the vision, direction, and priorities for Institutional Research. 

• Manage unit’s operating budget. 

• Lead comprehensive Academic and Operational Effectiveness initiatives that provide key measurables to inform a change and improvement model 

• Coordinate the work of and provide supervision of the IR team, comprised of an Associate Director of Reporting & Compliance and a Research Analyst. 

• Collaborate closely with colleagues in Academic Affairs and Registrar’s Office on compliance matters, data quality, data sharing, and reporting. 

• Provide leadership on data consistency across institutional units (e.g., Enrollment Services, Information Technology, and other offices) as needed. 

 

 

Compliance and Reporting 

• Provide leadership for, and collaborate with institutional partners, to compile, validate and submit data in accordance with state and federal requirements, institutional and programmatic/specialized accreditation (e.g., HLC, IPEDS, MSBE, CCNE, DESE, etc.), and other regulatory bodies (e.g., athletics, VA compliance visits, etc.). Collaborate with partners to assure that essential data and outcomes are published, as required. 

• Assist with prioritization, coordination, and completion of external marketing surveys (e.g., US News & World Reports, Best for Vets, KC Business Journal, etc.) and ad hoc data requests for institutional stakeholders. 

 

 Data Governance 

• Lead an institution-wide data governance strategy, including policy, standardized definitions, data accuracy, use of systems for reliable data, and accessibility of data for analysis and decision making. 

• Work closely with data stewards and IT to ensure data integrity and security through policies, standards, and procedures.  

 

Data Collection  

• Collaborate with data owners to identify primary sources of institutional data (e.g., LMS, SIS, CRM, etc.). 

• Facilitate data collection and reporting for identified academic initiatives supporting student success (e.g., retention, course completion, graduation rates, etc.).  

• Recommend changes to data collection, maintenance and use to improve data quality and integrity. 

 

Data Analysis 

• Conduct advanced analyses to provide insights into trends, student outcomes, and key performance indicators; forecast future trends. 

• Inform and maintain a comprehensive plan for data analysis and dissemination. 

• Interpret results and make recommendations to serve institutional needs and strategic priorities, inform decisions, and enhance academic and operational functions. 

• Utilize data to inform policy development and decision-making at all levels of the i