Strategic Operations Leader—Scale & Partnerships

Vanderbilt University; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

Vanderbilt University’s Institute of National Security seeks a Chief Operating Officer to lead operations across four Pillars and five Centers of Excellence, including emerging AI and national security programs. The COO will align strategy with execution, manage budgets, develop teams, and build external partnerships at scale.

Reporting to the Founding Director and Executive Director, this senior leadership role requires a proven track record in complex, mission-driven organizations and the

Qualifications

• Minimum 15 years of progressively responsible operations leadership experience.
• Proven track record building and leading teams across complex programs.
• Experience securing partnerships and funding from government, academia, or donors.
• Strong budget management and strategic planning capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Synchronize activities across Pillars and Centers to align with strategy and scale impact.
• Lead and develop a growing team of project managers, program leads, and staff.
• Pursue external funding and partnerships to support education and research programs.
• Identify opportunities and risks as the Institute scales and advise leadership.

Skills

Operations leadership

Program management

Partnership development

Budget management

Stakeholder engagement

Executive communication

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree or equivalent

Job description

Vanderbilt University’s Institute of National Security seeks a Chief Operating Officer to lead operations across four Pillars and five Centers of Excellence, including emerging AI and national security programs. The COO will align strategy with execution, manage budgets, develop teams, and build external partnerships at scale.

Reporting to the Founding Director and Executive Director, this senior leadership role requires a proven track record in complex, mission-driven organizations and the