APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

The Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) is accepting applications for an exciting new opportunity as a Business Analyst for the Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff!

Penn State is a top-ranked research university and Pennsylvania's sole land-grant institution, founded with a mission of high-quality teaching, expert research, and global service. This position offers a unique opportunity to work closely with senior leadership, drive impactful change, and contribute to the strategic direction of the organization. The ideal candidate will be a versatile, proactive professional with a passion for and knowledge of higher education, and exceptional written communication skills.

The successful candidate will serve as a strategic partner to the Senior Vice President, supporting in the execution of critical initiatives and driving forward key projects across the enterprise. This role requires a deep understanding of higher education dynamics, exceptional writing skills, and the ability to synthesize information quickly to facilitate decision-making processes. The Business Analyst will collaborate closely with the Senior Vice President and other executives, playing a pivotal role in transforming ideas into actionable plans, conducting research, and managing confidential matters with utmost discretion.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Translate conceptual ideas into actionable plans, including conducting research and initial planning phases for new projects and initiatives.

• Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to gather information, analyze data, and synthesize findings into concise summaries, action plans, committee charges, and other written materials.

• Develop and maintain a deep understanding of the higher education landscape, including trends, challenges, and opportunities relevant to the institution.

• Take initiative in identifying areas for improvement and proposing solutions to streamline processes and enhance organizational effectiveness.

• Provide high-level triaging of important matters, and drafting responses on behalf of the Senior Vice President.

• Attend meetings with the Senior Vice President to facilitate discussions, drive agendas forward, and take notes on action items and decisions made.

• Assist in crafting agendas for meetings, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and priorities.

• Uphold the highest standards of confidentiality and professionalism in handling sensitive information a