Special Assistant to the President

Pasadena City College; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 13,000 - 14,000; Full time

Job summary

Pasadena City College seeks a Special Assistant to the President/Superintendent to support high-level operations, policy, and external outreach. You will conduct strategic research, draft key communications, and collaborate with marketing, development, and board teams to advance the college’s mission.

The role requires strong analytical abilities, excellent communication, and the ability to manage sensitive information while coordinating calendars and events for the President.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Public Administration, Business, or related field.
• Minimum 3 years in an administrative policy, communication or research role, preferably in an educational institution.
• Master’s degree preferred and 5 years of related experience in education settings.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on education trends, grants, and initiatives to guide decisions.
• Draft speeches, correspondence, and reports for the President.
• Coordinate marketing, outreach, and fundraising activities with internal teams.
• Prepare briefs and manage confidential information with discretion.
• Represent the President in meetings and coordinate special projects.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Marketing tools

Confidentiality

Multitasking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Education/Public Administration/Business or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Marketing Tools

Job description

The Special Assistant to the President/Superintendent serves as a critical team member in the President’s office. This role emphasizes expertise in research, analysis, communication, marketing, and specialized support. The Special Assistant ensures efficient and effective operations by assisting the President in key functions, enhancing outreach, and promoting the college's mission and vision.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Research & Analysis

• Conduct comprehensive research on current education trends, grant opportunities, and initiatives to guide strategic decisions.
• Analyze data and reports to present findings, recommendations, and actionable insights.
• Monitor and assess the effectiveness of current college initiatives, recommending changes when necessary.

Communication

• Draft speeches, correspondence, and reports on behalf of the President.
• Serve as a liaison between the President and internal and external stakeholders, ensuring seamless communication.
• Prepare and present briefings for the President on crucial topics and upcoming engagements.

Marketing & Outreach

• Collaborate with the college’s marketing department to enhance the institution’s branding, positioning, and visibility.
• Coordinate with internal and external partners to host events, workshops, and other promotional activities.
• Aid in the development and execution of marketing campaigns targeted at prospective students, alumni, and partners.

Fundraising & High-Level Events:

• Assist in coordinating fundraising initiatives and campaigns, working closely with the institution's Foundation’s office.
• Coordinate with the Foundation and the marketing and communications team to create compelling fundraising materials and outreach strategies.
• Monitor and report on fundraising goals for the president.
• Handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
• Assist in logistical arrangements for special high-level events where the President is the primary representative or host.
• Ensure all documents, presentations, and materials for high-level events are prepared and available, adhering to the institution's standard and the President's expectations.

Specialized Support

• Manage and prioritize the President’s personal calendar, ensuring a balance between internal and external commitments.
• Prepare necessary documents, presentations, and materials for board meetings, conferences, and other events.

Other Duties

• Represent the President in meetings and functions as necessary.
• Coordinate special projects and initiatives as directed.
• Stay informed of pertinent state, federal, and local regulations and legislation that may impact the college.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Public Administration, Business, or related field required
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in an administrative policy, communication or research role, preferably within an educational institution

Preferred

• Master’s or higher in Education, Public Administration, Business, or related field preferred.
• 5 years of experience in an administrative policy, communication or research role, preferably within an educational institution

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

– May be representative, but not all-inclusive, of those knowledge, skills and abilities commonly associated with this position.

• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Proficient in marketing techniques and tools.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and confidential information.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and adapt in a fast-paced environment.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Research and Analytical Skills
• Communication Skills
• Marketing and Outreach
• Organizational and Time Management Skills
• Project Management
• Interpersonal and Relationship-Building Skills
• Discretion and Confidentiality
• Strategic Planning and Support

SALARY:

$13,095.24 - $13,750.00 monthly

$157,142.88 - $165,000.00 annually