Executive Director – Business Innovation

Jobtailor

Nashville (TN)

On-site

USD 110,000 - 160,000

Full time

9 days ago

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Job summary

Jobtailor in Nashville is seeking a senior leader to define and spearhead a comprehensive approach to business process improvement. You will partner with DAR and other leaders to assess operations, identify inefficiencies, and design scalable, technology-enabled solutions that align with strategic priorities.

This role demands strong cross-functional collaboration, change management, and a data-driven mindset.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent required.
10 years of progressive experience in process improvement, operations, innovation, or related fields.
Demonstrated success leading cross-functional initiatives in matrixed environments.
Expertise in process improvement methodologies, change management, and organizational effectiveness.
Experience implementing technology-enabled solutions, including automation and workflow tools.
Ability to translate strategic goals into operational execution and measurable outcomes.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and facilitation skills.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to influence at all organizational levels.

Responsibilities

Define and lead DAR’s approach to business process improvement.
Partner with DAR leaders to assess operations, identify inefficiencies, and design scalable solutions.
Develop and manage a prioritized portfolio of initiatives.
Apply structured methodologies to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and service.
Translate business needs into technology-enabled solutions; partner with technology teams to optimize processes.
Pilot and scale AI, automation, and workflow tools to support DAR’s operations.
Lead change management strategies and adoption of new processes and tools.
Collaborate with Training and departmental leaders to design and deliver training resources.
Create communication plans, adoption metrics, and feedback loops.
Ensure data governance and confidentiality for donor and student information.
Monitor emerging trends; introduce leading practices from higher education and industry.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Process Improvement

Change Management

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Project Management

Technology-Enabled Solutions

Education

Bachelor's degree

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Automation Tools

Workflow Tools

AI Technologies

Data Governance Tools

Job description

Define and lead DAR’s approach to business process improvement
Partner with DAR leaders to assess operations, identify inefficiencies, and design scalable, sustainable solutions
Develop and manage a prioritized portfolio of process improvement and innovation initiatives
Apply structured methodologies to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and service
Translate business needs into technology-enabled solutions
Partner with technology teams to optimize business processes
Identify, evaluate, and implement emerging technologies, including AI, automation, and workflow tools
Pilot and scale innovative solutions supporting DAR’s operational needs
Align business processes, systems, and DAR strategic priorities
Support university and DAR growth initiatives by aligning operations with strategic objectives
Lead change management strategies and support adoption of new processes, systems, and tools
Collaborate with Training and departmental leaders to design and deliver training and support resources
Create communication plans, feedback loops, and adoption metrics
Partner with Data Strategy, VandyQuest Operations, and the Project Management Office on cross-functional initiatives
Act as a liaison across teams to coordinate execution
Ensure process improvements are data-driven and consistent with data governance
Monitor emerging trends in business innovation, automation, AI, and digital transformation
Introduce leading practices from higher education and other industries
Foster innovation, experimentation, and continuous improvement across DAR
Handle sensitive donor and student information confidentially
Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree, or the equivalent, is required
10 years of progressively responsible experience in business process improvement, operations, innovation, or related fields
Demonstrated success leading cross-functional initiatives in matrixed environments
Expertise in process improvement methodologies, change management, and organizational effectiveness
Experience implementing technology-enabled solutions, including automation and workflow tools
Ability to translate strategic goals into operational execution and measurable outcomes
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and facilitation skills
Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to influence at all organizational levels
High level of discretion and ability to manage sensitive, confidential information
Demonstrated success working across teams and disciplines, facilitating solutions, designing new ideas, and driving priorities
Ability to work independently, take initiative, manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities
Advanced degree is preferred

Core Competencies

Demonstrates expertise in business process improvement and change management, with a strong ability to translate strategic goals into operational execution. Proficient in implementing technology-enabled solutions and fostering innovation across teams to drive efficiency and effectiveness.

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