Executive Director

Department

PSD Applied Data Science: Staff Leadership

About the Department

The MS in Applied Data Science program (MS-ADS) is a professional graduate program within the Data Science Institute (DSI) and Physical Sciences Division (PSD) at the University of Chicago. The DSI executes the University of Chicago’s bold, innovative vision of Data Science as an evolving discipline; the PSD explores new frontiers in the physical and mathematical sciences to lead the world in inquiry and impact. The purpose of MS-ADS is to advance the careers of diverse students for technical- and/or management-focused careers in data science and AI. Students may apply for full- or part-time admissions for the In-Person Program, Online Program, or a Joint Degree program. Admitted students benefit from a dedicated, full-service team in support of robust student and alumni outcomes. The MS-ADS program is located at the university’s NBC Tower space in downtown Chicago, IL.

Job Summary

The Executive Director of the Master of Science in Applied Data Science (MS-ADS) oversees all aspects of the administration and management of the MS-ADS programs which currently enrolls over 500 students, including both in-person and online pathways, joint degrees, and new degree programs. Reporting to the Faculty Director, the Executive Director leads a team of over 23 professional staff, directs program operations, and acts as a senior liaison to faculty, staff, students, and university leadership. This role oversees academic affairs, student affairs, career services, external partnerships, marketing and communications, operations, IT, program evaluation and assessment, curriculum development, talent development and retention, finance, procurement and vendor oversight. Serves as a strategic leader, advising the program faculty on instructional design and development, new programs, external proposals and other opportunities. Oversees a budget of $20M and ensures that the program meets its targets. Works closely with leadership in the Data Science Institute to execute the shared vision of creating distinctive and impactful educational programs that leverage the strengths of the University of Chicago. The ideal candidate excels in both strategic and operational leadership, and thrives in a challenging, intellectually dynamic role.

Responsibilities

• Manages a team of professionals to oversee the day-to-day MS-ADS program operations across enrollment, academics, student experience, partnerships, career services, marketing, HR, IT, facilities, and budgeting.

• Advises professional staff on process improvement, staff development, and short- and long-term planning to ensure that the programs are successful.

• Supervises the Director of Student affairs to oversee and optimize the student experience through the entire student lifecycle from recruitment through graduation for all program modalities including part time, full time and online students.

• Works with the PSD Dean of Students to escalate complex student concerns and consult on the evolving University landscape related to masters program development and student affairs.

• Manages and oversees a $20million annual budget, working collaboratively with the PSD’s Associate Dean for Budget & Finance to ensure accurate budgeting, financial forecasting, and vendor management.

• Oversees the student capstone experience, boot camps, and non-credit course offerings, working closely with the Director of Career Services and External Partnerships.

• In partnership with the Director of Enrollment Management & Analytics, directs and oversees the comprehensive admissions lifecycle that includes recruitment and outreach activities, application evaluation, financial aid, and student enrollment.

• Guides and directs the staff who oversee instructional services, developing and optimizing business processes to enable the program to function and grow.

• Serves as a strategic thought partner to the Faculty Director, guiding the development of new educational offerings and proposals from inception to implementation.

• Works closely with leadership in the Data Science Institute to collaborate on strategic initiatives and optimize educational offerings.

• Develops and implements program strategy, policies, and new initiatives in collaboration with the leadership team.

• Drives program growth and diversification, including evaluating market research and developing proposals for new offerings.

• Oversees marketing, advertising, and communications to support enrollment and program visibility.

• Works with University of Chicago’s Advancement team to enhance alumni engagement and support fundraising efforts.

• Manages other managers and pr