Lead Strategic Initiative Specialist, Academic Projects and Administration

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

Job Location (Full Address):

220 Hutchison Rd, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14627

Opening:

Worker Subtype:

Regular

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Department:

200101 Ofc for Academ Fin Admn & Plng

Work Shift:

UR - Day (United States of America)

Range:

UR URG 116

Compensation Range:

$108,483.00 - $162,725.00

The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job's compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.

Responsibilities:

GENERAL PURPOSE
Reports to the Executive Vice Provost for Academic Finance Administration & Planning and is responsible for prioritization of project plans and end-to-end project management, including designing, implementing, and leading the structure necessary to achieve multiple project goals in a timely manner including prioritization of project plans. Collaborates with leaders in academic services, schools, and central administration offices across the University to lead the process transformation of academic systems in alignment with the University strategic plan and priorities and in support of students, faculty and staff. Operates with significant latitude for independent judgment and action to identify and prioritize projects based on the University and academic strategic plans and/or objectives of the provost or deans.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

PROJECT PLANNING

• Develops appropriate structure and overall project planning process to facilitate the selection, initiation, execution, monitoring, success metrics, and completion of multiple projects within the Office of the Provost and throughout Academic Services.
• Incorporates concepts of continuous improvement and change management best practices into a project management framework.
• Reviews, assesses, and makes recommendations for change on key project plans to ensure alignment with strategic goals.
• Manages relationships and builds coalitions for projects

PROJECT DELIVERY

• Manages all parts of identified projects, in coordination with operational stakeholders and managers.
• Develops project deliverables including charters, project plans, communication plans, success measures and reporting, facilitating governance committees and working groups as appropriate.
• Builds and leads project teams spanning across all academic center divisions and relevant central administration offices.

PROJECT REPORTING

• Provides consistent reporting and communication on overall project plan and assigned projects. Develops reporting and communication processes and plans, as appropriate.
• Creates and delivers presentations for faculty, students, staff, senior leadership, and board of trustees' members as appropriate.
• Identifies, communicates, and manages issues that arise within projects in collaboration with Academic leaders throughout project planning and delivery to minimize overall project risk and ensure collaboration and transparency.
• Facilitates remediation and resolution of risks/issues and escalates to the provost and other key stakeholders as needed.

ADMINISTRATION

• Leads the development and execution of strategic plan tactics for academic functions across multiple divisions, ensuring alignment with the University’s mission and strategic goals.
• Synthesizes information to create and distribute routine and ad hoc reports from various units for presentations to University leadership groups.
• Drives continuous improvement efforts across academic functions, leveraging data analytics, industry best practices, and stakeholder feedback to optimize operations.
• Partners with Academic Finance Administration & Planning team(s) as appropriate.
• Serves as a liaison between the academic divisions and the broader University community, ensuring administrative functions support the institution’s academic and research missions.
• Represents the divisions in high-level meetings, committees, and external engagements, advocating for administrative needs and contri