Director of Strategic Operations - Office of Academic Innovation - Penn Engineering

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America’s Best Large Employers in 2023.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.

Posted Job Title

Director of Strategic Operations - Office of Academic Innovation - Penn Engineering

Job Profile Title

Information Technology Manager Senior

Job Description Summary

The Office of Academic Innovation (OAI) at Penn Engineering leads the strategy, growth, and operations of a rapidly expanding global portfolio of online and professional education programs. We are seeking a Director of Strategic Operations to join our leadership team. The ideal candidate is a disciplined strategist and clear communicator who can balance technical analysis with strong interpersonal leadership and community building.

This senior leadership role sits at the center of strategy execution, partnering closely with the Executive Director to translate bold institutional priorities into strong operational systems, financial discipline, and a thriving office culture. The Director ensures that vision becomes reality across a complex, fast-growing portfolio while serving as a primary ambassador for OAI, building vital professional networks across the University to further our mission.

Job Description

Organizational Leadership & Culture

• Serve as a senior integrator across OAI’s functional teams, ensuring alignment between strategy, enrollment growth, and operational execution.

• Directly supervise the operations team, providing strategic oversight and support for core functions including event planning, TA and faculty hiring processes, office administration, and the coordination of internal reporting workflows.

• Cultivate a vibrant workplace by designing initiatives that promote professional development, inclusivity, and team cohesion, ensuring a strong commitment to the team’s well-being.

• Lead annual operational planning cycles, including goal-setting, all-staff meetings, and manager forums designed to enhance internal transparency.

• Act as a high-level representative for OAI, networking across Penn Engineering and the wider University to build strategic relationships and advocate for OAI’s initiatives.

• Handle sensitive and confidential matters with the discretion and political judgment required in a complex Ivy League environment.

Financial Strategy & Performance Management

• Oversee financial performance for a dynamic portfolio, including P&L management, enrollment-driven revenue forecasting, and expense modeling.

• Directly manage key organizational contracts and provide operational support to teams for vendor selection, negotiation, and compliance with University procurement policies.

• Lead monthly and annual financial reviews, translating complex financial data into actionable insights for senior lea