Strategic Academic Operations Leader

Salem State University; Salem (MA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Salem State University seeks a Director of Academic Operations to guide the Division of Academic Affairs with strategic and operational leadership. The role coordinates complex initiatives, improves processes, and aligns operations with the university plan while engaging internal and external stakeholders.

The director will oversee annual planning for Convocation and Commencement and partner with academic leadership to ensure fiscal and administrative excellence across offices.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in higher education administration, business, or a relevant field.
• Minimum of five years of progressively responsible administrative experience in higher education.
• Experience with budget planning and management, financial analysis, and process improvement.
• Experience leading cross-functional projects or operational portfolios.
• Knowledge of software including advanced Excel functions, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, and PeopleSoft; ability to perform PeopleSoft inquiries.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for core administrative functions within Academic Affairs.
• Lead cross-functional projects and develop divisional operating systems.
• Advise academic leadership on budget, facilities, and other administrative matters.
• Represent the Provost’s Office with internal and external stakeholders.
• Oversee annual planning and execution for Convocation and Commencement.

Skills

Budget planning

Financial analysis

Process improvement

Cross-functional leadership

Strategic thinking

Education

Master's degree in higher education administration/related field

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

PowerPoint

Outlook

Teams

PeopleSoft

Job description

Salem State University seeks a Director of Academic Operations to guide the Division of Academic Affairs with strategic and operational leadership. The role coordinates complex initiatives, improves processes, and aligns operations with the university plan while engaging internal and external stakeholders.

The director will oversee annual planning for Convocation and Commencement and partner with academic leadership to ensure fiscal and administrative excellence across offices.