Strategic VP, Research Operations

The Ohio State University; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ohio State University seeks a Senior Associate Vice President for Research Operations (SAVP) to lead a broad portfolio of research operations, compliance, and support functions. This executive will partner with the VP for Research and university leadership to enhance efficiency and integrity across the research enterprise.

Responsibilities include translating strategy into actionable plans, implementing KPI-driven management, and guiding cross‑functional teams such as Sponsored Programs,

Qualifications

• Strong leadership, communication, and consensus-building skills.
• Experience leading large, complex research communities and cross‑functional teams.
• Extensive knowledge of research administration, compliance, and IRB/IRB-related processes.

Responsibilities

• Translate ERIK and university research strategies into actionable operational plans and milestones.
• Substantially improve day-to-day operations across the SAVP portfolio through process redesign and coordination.
• Establish and manage a rigorous KPI framework to demonstrate performance and accountability.
• Use data and stakeholder input to identify barriers, prioritize improvements, and drive timely resolution of issues.
• Communicate performance, progress, risks, and improvement plans to leadership and partners.
• Build operating practices that support growth in externally sponsored research and reduce administrative burden.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Regulatory knowledge

Stakeholder management

Research administration

Consensus-building

Education

Earned doctorate or terminal degree

Job description

The Ohio State University seeks a Senior Associate Vice President for Research Operations (SAVP) to lead a broad portfolio of research operations, compliance, and support functions. This executive will partner with the VP for Research and university leadership to enhance efficiency and integrity across the research enterprise.

Responsibilities include translating strategy into actionable plans, implementing KPI-driven management, and guiding cross‑functional teams such as Sponsored Programs,