Chief of Staff jobs in Ann Arbor, MI

How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

Summary

As one of the nation's leading public research universities, discoveries and innovations led by the University of Michigan address emerging challenges, spur new technologies, improve quality of life, strengthen communities and create economic opportunities. The Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) works closely with faculty, staff and students from across the three U-M campuses to catalyze, support and safeguard research and creative practice in ways that serve the public and advance the university's vital mission.

This individual will serve as a key member of the OVPR Leadership Team.

The Chief of Staff reports to the Vice President for Research and Innovation and advises the Vice President for Research and Innovation and the leadership of the Office of the Vice President for Research.

The Chief of Staff keeps the Vice President for Research and Innovation apprised of significant issues, ensures various perspectives are presented accurately and objectively, and helps to identify solutions and effectively resolve issues.

The Chief of Staff maintains a constant interface with the VPR leadership team to ensure that key issues are proactively addressed.

Provides critical support to the Vice President for Research and Innovation in setting priorities, assisting with long-range planning, and coordinating the execution of strategies in support of the Office of the Vice President for Research. The Chief of Staff will coordinate some engagement activities with the VPR leadership team around specific strategic and operational matters including but not limited to, support in setting agendas for the VPR leadership team and/or senior leadership meeting discussions and action items resulting from each meeting and aids with appropriate follow-up.

Build and maintain mutually supportive relationships with all levels of management, staff, outside agencies and vendors, when necessary. Works to remove barriers that hamper inter-and intra-department communications. Additionally, the Chief of Staff works with the OVPR leadership in managing relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Coordinates and monitors assignments which must be accomplished in conjunction with other senior executives.

Represents the U-M Office of Vice President for Research across campus serving as a key member on committees, task forces, and councils. The Chief of Staff will manage the bi-directional flow of communication in and out of the Office of the Vice President for Research to ensure consistent and responsive message delivery to key University stakeholders.

Other responsibilities also include supporting an inclusive environment of teamwork and collaboration and maintaining familiarity with budgetary matters related to the Office of the Vice President for Research.

Generate and coordinate assignments, as needed. Work independently to complete assignments involving the appropriate internal or external contacts.

Develop data analysis and write reports for use in executive decision-making. Handle data, communication, and projects that are highly privileged and confidential.

Coordinate comprehensive projects and assignments that require coordination of several different offices and/or areas of the University including personnel/management reviews, and special studies.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications*

Bachelor's degree

7-10 years of professional experience in higher education administration

Demonstrated ability to manage and supervise teams and projects on behalf of executive leadership

Outstanding writing and communication skills with demonstrated ability to communicate and synthesize complex technical topics

Desired Qualifications*

Master's degree

Experience in a research environment, research-related government agency, research-related business or related academic setting is preferred

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.