Penn State University

Director of Administrative Projects

Penn State University$86K — $129K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5-7 years of leadership in program management within a complex academic or governmental structure
  • Previous operational leadership experience at Penn State University or similar institutions
  • Proven skills in managing relationships with senior leadership, faculty, and administrative staff
  • Strong communication, facilitation, and presentation abilities at an executive level
  • A Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field.

Responsibilities

  • Provide strategic oversight and leadership alignment with key organizational goals
  • Coordinate and manage complex, cross-functional programs across various university units
  • Supervise multiple project managers and collaborate with external experts to meet objectives
  • Lead change initiatives that promote excellence and innovation within administrative processes
  • Manage project risks, timelines, resources, and communication effectively
  • Foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders, navigating the university's governance framework.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Robust retirement plans
  • Generous paid time off, including holidays, vacation, and sick leave
  • 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members
  • Flexibility in work arrangements to suit job and unit needs.
Full Job Description
POSITION SPECIFICS

The Office of Enterprise Change and Transformation (EC&T) is seeking a highly strategic and experienced Director of Administrative Projects to lead the coordination and execution of high-impact initiatives focused on keeping the University on the cutting edge of leadership in higher education through its teaching, research, and service mission. As a leader within the Enterprise Change & Transformation organization, the Director of Administrative Projects will oversee the project portfolio of the Senior Vice President Finance and Business/Treasure and Office of the President, as well as manage senior level strategic initiatives.

The Director of Administrative Projects will report to the Senior Director of EC&T and will supervise a team of advanced project management professionals. The role requires a proactive leader who excels at stakeholder engagement, program oversight, and cross-functional coordination. This individual will collaborate closely with the Senior Vice President of Finance and Business/Treasurer, the President's Office, and academic and administrative units across the university.

The location of this position is flexible and can operate fully in-person at our University Park Campus, or in a hybrid model of both in-person and remote. Standard working hours are in the eastern time zone. The Office of Enterprise Change and Transformation is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work hours should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Provide executive-level leadership and oversight of programs ensuring alignment with Finance and Business, Office of the President, and PSU strategic goals
  • Coordinate complex, cross-functional initiatives across units within Finance and Business, Office of the President, and across the institution
  • Oversee multiple project managers and collaborate with external consultants, as needed, to successfully meet deliverables and provide outstanding service and support
  • Serve as a change leader within EC&T, advancing transformation initiatives that support excellence and administrative innovation
  • Manage program risks, timelines, resources, and communications at the executive level and throughout the organization
  • Facilitate collaboration between administrative, academic, operational, and executive stakeholders while navigating university governance and culture


Required Qualifications:
  • Proven leadership experience in program management within a complex academic or government environment
  • Prior operational leadership role at Penn State University or a comparable institution
  • Demonstrated success in stakeholder management, including working with senior leadership, faculty, and administrators
  • Exceptional communication, facilitation, and executive presentation skills


MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $86,300.00 - $129,500.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

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