Presidential Lead Scheduler & Executive Assistant

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

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Here is what we offer: 

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match 
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us! 

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

Presidential Lead Scheduler & Executive Assistant

Reports To: University President with dotted line to Chief of Staff

Position Summary:

The Senior Special Assistant (Lead Scheduler) is responsible for the strategic management of the President’s calendar, ensuring optimal time management and prioritization of engagements. This role requires a deep understanding of institutional priorities, exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and availability outside customary work hours when necessary to fulfill emerging scheduling needs for the President. The Senior Special Assistant (Lead Scheduler) will work in close collaboration with the Chief of Staff and Senior Special Assistant (Travel Scheduler & Executive Assistant) to ensure that the President’s scheduling and travel arrangements are strategic, seamless, and integrated. This role also works closely with university leadership, members of the board of trustees, and external stakeholders.

The Senior Special Assistant (Lead Scheduler) works very closely with the Senior Special Assistant (Travel Scheduler & Executive Assistant).  Together they provide the Office of the President with critical redundancy to manage scheduling, travel, and administrative functions in the Office of the President to ensure seamless operations when either is on leave. 

Key Responsibilities:

Integrated and Coordinated Presidential Scheduling

* Oversee scheduling requests and ensure timely responses to internal and external stakeholders.

* Oversee and review the external facing President’s inbox on a daily basis, triaging, forwarding, and responding to requests and inquiries in a timely and professional manner on behalf of the President and the President’s Office.

* Facilitate and manage the President’s scheduling process, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.

* Assess and prioritize meeting requests in consultation with the Chief of Staff, determining which engagements require the President’s direct involvement.

* Assist in managing sensitive or urgent scheduling issues, working closely with the Chief of Staff to address emerging priorities.

* Ensure seamless coordination with the Senior Special Assistant – Travel Scheduler for travel-related calendar adjustments.

Presidential Preparation

* Research, track, and prepare briefing materials for meetings, including attendee profiles, agendas, key discussion points, and any prepared formal remarks.

* Ensure the President has a full view and understanding of his weekly schedule, is fully briefed before meetings, and has all materials in a weekly briefing binder.

Strategic Planning and Analysis

* Create and conduct weekly briefings for the Chief of Staff.

* Conduct daily, weekly, and 3-month strategic reviews of the President’s schedule to ensure accuracy and preparedness for upcoming commitments.

* Prepare overviews and conduct a weekly strategic scheduling briefing with the President, the Chief of Staff, the office of external affairs, the office of university communications, and the office of development and