Executive COO & Assistant Dean, School of Fine Arts

University of Connecticut; Storrs (CT); On-site; USD 142,000 - 155,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Connecticut invites applications for the role of Assistant Dean and Chief Operations Officer (COO) for the School of Fine Arts. Based in Storrs, the AD/COO advises the Dean and senior leadership on strategic planning, resource allocation, and operational continuity across finance, HR, facilities, and IT.

The role combines strategic leadership with hands-on management of budgeting, personnel, and compliance, including oversight of school operations at UConn regional campuses.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in business administration, accounting, human resources, public administration, higher education administration, arts administration, or related field.
• Bachelor’s degree and equivalent work experience accepted.
• Demonstrated communication, problem-solving, and policy interpretation skills.
• Experience with strategic planning, organizational process improvement, or operational efficiency initiatives.
• Experience in higher education administration or similar complex organizations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and enforce school policies, procedures, and strategies in collaboration with the Dean and leadership.
• Oversee fiscal management, budgeting, financial analysis, and internal controls for the school.
• Supervise professional staff in finance and operations and coordinate IT personnel.
• Lead HR processes, staffing, evaluations, and compliance with regulations.
• Direct IT services, facilities, and space management with central ITS support.
• Represent the school on university committees and manage external partnerships.
• Manage risk, contracts, and regulatory compliance in a university setting.

Skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Policy interpretation

Strategic planning

Education

MBA or related master’s degree

Bachelor’s degree + equivalent experience

Job description

University of Connecticut invites applications for the role of Assistant Dean and Chief Operations Officer (COO) for the School of Fine Arts. Based in Storrs, the AD/COO advises the Dean and senior leadership on strategic planning, resource allocation, and operational continuity across finance, HR, facilities, and IT.

The role combines strategic leadership with hands-on management of budgeting, personnel, and compliance, including oversight of school operations at UConn regional campuses.