Institutional Project Manager

Position Summary:

The Institutional Project Manager is a key individual contributor in the Office of the Chancellor. This position is responsible for planning and managing the day-to-day administrative and operational activities across multiple initiatives. The Project Manager is responsible for planning, tracking, data analysis, reporting, and overseeing the administration and implementation of programs and projects. The Institutional Project Manager works with both internal and external partners to successfully set and meet project milestones to meet the goals set by the Chancellor, Chief of Staff and Senior Counselor.  The position is a full-time, benefits-eligible, on-campus position and reports directly to the Senior Director, Strategic Projects.  

About the Work Unit:

The Office of the Chancellor at Vanderbilt University is responsible for the management and business operations to support the work of the Chancellor in executing the mission of Vanderbilt University. Each team member plays an integral role in executing the strategic initiatives and outreach that drive the University forward. The team works alongside the Chancellor and Vice Chancellors in planning and operations of Vanderbilt University and its affiliates as well as coordinating with the Board of Trustees on complex and cross-institutional issues.

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

• Plans, implements, and leads special projects for the Office of the Chancellor to ensure successful outcomes.

• Develops program overviews and guidelines and manages program administration and implementation timelines.

• Oversees tracking and maintaining program data, metrics and outcomes and assesses program impact to ensure achievement of goals.

• Identifies potential process improvements for projects, proposing enhancements and reporting on concerns.

• Drafts project communications and reviews summaries to the Chief of Staff, Senior Counselor and leadership.

• Maintains positive and collaborative working relationships with campus and external partners and solicits feedback to improve projects and programs. 

• Identifies, analyzes, and improves upon existing project management processes.

• Provides professional and/or technical support in the execution of day-to-day project activities.

• Conducts research and prepares reports and white papers for review. 

• Works with partners across the university and externally to coordinate resources needed to execute projects and manage programs.

  Supervisory Relationships:

• This position does not have supervisory responsibility; this position reports administratively and functionally to the Senior Director, Strategic Projects.

• Education and Certifications:

• A Bachelor’s degree in management, communications, or a related field is required. 

• Master’s degree in management, higher education policy/administration, or related field is strongly preferred.

• Experience and Skills:

• At least 5 years of directly comparable experience is necessary.

• Ability to think strategically to manage multiple projects/initiatives with changing priorities and strict deadlines in a rapidly changing environment is necessary. 

• Excellent organizational and planning skills are necessary.

• Ability to multi-task, meet deadlines, and adapt to shifting project requirements is necessary.

• Superior project management and time management skills are necessary.

• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to interact with individuals across the university and externally is necessary.

• Superior organizational skills, verbal and written communication skills, and the ability to articulate and present information to various and diverse audiences is necessary. 

• Evidence of exceptional judgment and decision-making skills is necessary. 

• Demonstrated ability to handle high level sensitive and confidential information is necessary. 

• Proficiency in office so