Executive Assistant to the Dean and Graduate School Office Manager

Brown University; Providence (RI); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Brown University is seeking an Executive Assistant to the Dean and Graduate School Office Manager to provide high-level administrative support. The role includes managing calendars, coordinating meetings, preparing materials, and serving as a liaison for graduate programs and leadership within Brown.

The position requires a Bachelor's degree with 3–5 years of executive support experience, preferably in higher education, and strong discretion, communication, and organizational skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree and 3 to 5 years of administrative experience, particularly supporting an executive or related experience, or equivalent combination of education/experience.
• Higher education experience preferred.
• Experience managing a difficult calendar, coordinating complex travel arrangements, and drafting correspondence, or related experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-level administrative support to the Dean of the Graduate School.
• Provide selective administrative support for senior leadership in the Graduate School.
• Manage the Dean’s calendars and scheduling; coordinate meetings and prepare materials.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication

Organizational skills

Discretion/confidentiality

Multitasking

Calendar management

Office software

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Excel

PowerPoint

Google Calendar

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.

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.

Job Description

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 for further information.

Responsibilities

This position is responsible for providing critical, high-level administrative support to the Dean of the Graduate School, selective administrative support for senior leadership in the Graduate School, and central management of the office of the Graduate School. We are seeking an outstanding professional who is excited to support the Dean and Office of the Graduate School in advancing the interests of graduate programs and graduate students at Brown.

The Graduate School supports the operation and oversight of all graduate degree programs and graduate students at Brown, in coordination with partners in the School of Professional Studies, School of Engineering, School of Public Health, and the Division of Biology and Medicine. The Dean of the Graduate School is a senior leader who reports directly to the Provost and who serves on multiple senior-level University committees and on external bodies, representing graduate education within and outside of Brown.

The Executive Assistant manages the Dean’s calendars and scheduling; coordinates meeting preparation and follow up, including gathering background materials, preparing meeting materials, and keeping minutes; is a collaborative partner and advocate for the Dean’s initiatives; makes travel arrangements; assists with special projects and events; supports searches for staff positions in the Graduate School; and supports the Dean in financial processes in the School. The Executive Assistant serves as the first point of contact for meeting requests and general inquiries to the Dean. The individual is often privy to sensitive and confidential information requiring a high level of professional discretion and judgment.

The Executive Assistant also serves as Graduate School Office Manager, with administrative support for Graduate School senior leadership and logistical support for Graduate School events. In this capacity the position provides project management support, including scheduling support for Graduate School senior leadership level meetings and office-wide meetings. The individual also provides support for Graduate School event planning, conference room management, facility requests, office supply ordering, as well as supplier and expense report management. Additionally, the position assists with the general reception of visitors to the Graduate School’s Office.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree and 3 to 5 years of administrative experience, particularly supporting an executive or related experience, or equivalent combination of education/experience.
• Higher education experience preferred.
• Experience managing a difficult calendar, coordinating complex travel arrangements, and drafting correspondence, or related experience preferred.

Job Competencies

• Extremely high level of analytical, planning, and organizational skills with a strong customer service orientation.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills with the ability to effectively support and serve a diverse population.
• Excellent organizational, project management, communications, and production skills involving multiple, simultaneous projects.
• Computing proficiency with strong knowledge of Microsoft Office software programs, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Advanced knowledge of Google calendar management.
• Demonstrated high-level of discretion, confidentiality, attention to detail and the ability to take initiative in problem solving.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively to ensure effective management of all office functions.
• Ability to learn new processes with minimum supervision.
• Close attention to detail and follow-through on projects and tasks.
• Strong interpersonal skills in order to work successfully with colleagues and represent the Graduate School with tact, discretion and professionalism.
• Capacity to multitask, keep calm under pressure, prioritize and confidence to seek assistance/guidance when needed.

Salary Grade

9

Additional Information

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

Benefits of Working at Brown

Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.

Recruiting Start Date

2026-09-03

Job Posting Title

Executive Assistant to the Dean and Graduate School Office Manager

Department

Graduate School

Grade

Grade 9

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type

Regular

Time Type

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Position Work Location

Onsite

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact [e-mail].

Brown is an E-Verify Employer

Brown is an E-Verify Employer.

EEO Statement

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, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.