Director of Special Projects

Brown University   Providence, RI   Full-time     Information Services / Technology (IT)
Posted on April 11, 2024
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Job Description:

About Brown:

Brown University is a leading research university distinct for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty and staff are driven by the idea that their work will have an impact in the world.

Brown University offers a flexible work/life balance; summer hours, winter break and a comprehensive Benefits package including time off, annual paid holidays; benefits offerings including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts and more. To learn about Brown University's benefits, visit the University Human Resources web page here for further information.

About the Opportunity:

We are in an especially exciting period in Brown's long and rich history. Guided by Building on Distinction, our strategic plan, the University is positioned to address critical societal issues through rigorous teaching, research and service. The plan maximizes Brown's capacity and inclination to approach pressing societal problems from multiple perspectives by bringing together exceptional scholars with diverse knowledge, backgrounds and experiences. The Office of the Provost is central in this work, collaborating with senior academic leaders, faculty, staff and students to create a vibrant scholarly community. In carrying out this work, the provost has established as priorities advancing academic excellence, building intellectual community and ensuring financial sustainability.

Responsibilities:

The Director of Special Projects leads and executes strategic initiatives as well as short and long-term projects of varying size, scope and scale to advance academic priorities and operational excellence of Brown University. These initiatives include large, complex, university-wide, or interdepartmental projects or programs that have strategic importance and significant impact. Reporting to the deputy provost, the Director of Special Projects works closely with the provost, deputy provost, and other senior leaders. This position involves high interaction with leadership in the Office of the Provost, cross-campus project teams and key campus partners to advance strategic priorities.

At the direction of the provost and deputy provost, the director will conduct research, analyze and present data, and lead, manage or facilitate projects or portions/phases of projects for the Office of the Provost and affiliated areas.

The director provides high-level project management and strategic support for the provost; leads, facilitates, manages and/or tracks high-priority projects and activities in which the provost has jurisdiction, including new initiatives, working groups, ad hoc committees, leadership searches, and major events; communicates critical project updates and changes that require escalation to the provost, and works closely with the provost's leadership team to support and ensure follow-through for projects and activities.

The director is responsible for translating their own rigorous analysis and research into preparing high-level briefings and developing reports and presentations for the provost. The director will manage one or more administrative support staff in the office.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree is required, an advanced degree is preferred.
  • Minimum 8+ years of administrative experience in higher education or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • A minimum of 3 years of managerial experience is required.
  • High-level project-management skills and the proven ability to lead the implementation and prioritization of organizational initiatives.
  • Demonstrated success with defining/leading projects of varying scope and size, in large and complex organizations.
  • Demonstrated capacity to work both collaboratively and independently, to exercise sound judgment, and to handle sensitive and confidential matters.
  • Proven track record as a consensus builder who can foster relationships and move forward collaborative projects and areas of work with clear goals and outcomes.
  • Demonstrated ability to exercise a positive service-oriented attitude, exercise solid judgment, and handle challenging situations with tact and diplomacy.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a complex and diverse community.
  • Demonstrated ability to support a community of diverse perspectives and cultures in an inclusive environment.
  • A capacity to embrace change and identify creative and innovative solutions to complex problems.
  • Track record of integrity, reasoned judgment, humility, adaptability, and the ability to make and explain challenging decisions.
  • High degree of attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to set priorities and handle multiple assignments and deadlines.
  • Proficient in technologies that support project management, reporting and presentations.
Salary Grade:

12

Additional Information:

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Please include a cover letter and resume with your application.

This is a hybrid position based on Brown's Providence campus.

Recruiting Start Date:

2024-02-16

Job Posting Title:

Director of Special Projects

Department:

Office of the Provost

Grade:

Grade 12

Worker Type:

Employee

Worker Sub-Type:

Regular

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

37.5

Position Work Location:

Hybrid Eligible

Submission Guidelines:

Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any staff position at Brown University you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact employment@brown.edu.

EEO Statement:

Brown University is an E-Verify Employer.

As an EEO/AA employer, Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person's race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, and caste, which is protected by our University policies.


Brown University

Providence , RI