Director of Business Innovation & Process Excellence

Vanderbilt University; Nashville (TN); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Vanderbilt University’s Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) seeks an Executive Director of Business Innovation to drive enterprise-wide process improvement, technology enablement, and organizational effectiveness. You will partner with DAR leaders to translate strategic goals into scalable, data-driven solutions and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

This hybrid role based in the Nashville, TN area requires strong collaboration across functions, change management expertise, and a

Qualifications

• 10 years of progressively responsible experience in business process improvement, operations, or related fields.
• Experience leading cross-functional initiatives in matrixed environments.
• Expertise in process improvement methodologies and change management.
• Experience implementing technology-enabled solutions, including automation and workflow tools.
• Ability to translate strategic goals into operational execution with measurable outcomes.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and facilitation skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills across organizational levels.
• Discretion handling sensitive donor and student information.

Responsibilities

• Define and lead DAR’s approach to business process improvement.
• Translate business needs into technology-enabled solutions.
• Pilot and scale innovative digital transformation initiatives.
• Ensure alignment of processes with DAR strategic priorities.
• Lead change management and staff training programs.
• Collaborate with Data Strategy, CRM VQO, and PMO for integrated solutions.

Skills

Business process improvement

Operations management

Innovation leadership

Change management

Cross-functional collaboration

Data-driven decision making

Strategic planning

Education

Bachelor's degree

Advanced degree

Job description

Vanderbilt University’s Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) seeks an Executive Director of Business Innovation to drive enterprise-wide process improvement, technology enablement, and organizational effectiveness. You will partner with DAR leaders to translate strategic goals into scalable, data-driven solutions and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

This hybrid role based in the Nashville, TN area requires strong collaboration across functions, change management expertise, and a