POSITION SPECIFICSAs part of the Penn State IT's Optimized Service Team project, IT is implementing a new operating model designed to enhance service delivery, operational efficiency and collaboration across the university. Penn State is seeking an experienced, strategic, and collaborative leader to serve as the
Senior Director of Planning and Management.
The Senior Director of Planning and Management will lead four integrated functions that enable Penn State's service-optimized IT operating model: the Project Management Office (PMO), Business Operations, Vendor and Contract Management, and Service Standards. Reporting to the Deputy CIO, this role provides the operational backbone - project delivery governance, communications, administrative support, vendor strategy, and the practice standards that define how key IT roles (including Service Owners, Service Managers, and IT Strategic Partners) operate across the institution.
This is an operational leadership position that ensures Penn State IT's service delivery is well-governed, professionally communicated, vendor-optimized, and built on consistent standards. Critically, the Service Standards function within this role helps to define the frameworks and practice standards for IT Service Management, service owners and managers, and IT Strategic Partners, making this role a foundational standard-setter for the broader IT operating model.
RESPONSIBILITIES- Lead project and program delivery governance by establishing project management standards, enabling adaptive delivery models, aligning execution with institutional priorities, monitoring delivery performance and risk, and providing actionable portfolio and project insights to support informed decision-making across Penn State IT.
- Lead IT communications strategy by ensuring consistent, professional, and timely messaging; coordinating communications across stakeholders; and providing communication frameworks and resources for Service Owners and IT Strategic Partners.
- Manage business operations and administrative support services by overseeing administrative teams, operational processes, meeting and event logistics, documentation, and workflows that support Penn State IT leadership and organizational effectiveness.
- Lead enterprise vendor and contract management by overseeing strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, vendor performance, compliance, risk mitigation, and lifecycle governance, while providing vendor intelligence and fostering innovation-oriented partnerships that support Penn State IT's strategic priorities.
- Define, maintain, and evolve IT service management and operational practice standards by establishing ITSM frameworks, service delivery processes, performance measures, competency models, and operating expectations that support consistent, high-quality service delivery across the organization.
- Govern and enable standards adoption by providing assessment tools, maturity models, training, guidance, and practitioner-focused resources that support consistent implementation, compliance, and continuous improvement across Penn State IT.
- Build and lead high-performing cross-functional teams by recruiting, mentoring, and developing talent across PMO, Business Operations, Vendor Management, and Service Standards while fostering operational excellence and a service-minded culture.
- Enable the success of Service Owners and IT Strategic Partners by providing delivery support, communications, vendor intelligence, role practice standards, and collaborative governance that promotes alignment, information sharing, and customer-centric service delivery across Penn State IT.
QUALIFICATIONS Qualified candidates will demonstrate strength across several of the following areas:
- Progressive leadership experience in IT operations, service management, program/project management, business operations, vendor management, or related functions.
- Demonstrated success leading and developing cross-functional teams in a complex organizational environment.
- Experience partnering with senior leaders and stakeholders to drive strategic initiatives and operational excellence.
- Strong knowledge of IT service management (ITSM), governance, service delivery, and organizational best practices.
- Experience managing vendor relationships, contracts, and performance metrics.
- Exceptional communication, collaboration, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to influence without direct authority.
- Proven ability to establish standards, promote adoption, and drive continuous improvement across diverse stakeholder groups.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSMaster's Degree10+ years of relevant experience, includes 5+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None
LOCATION These positions follow a hybrid work model with some remote work flexibility. A weekly on-site presence at the University Park campus will be required. Occasional travel to Commonwealth Campuses and other Penn State locations may be required.
SALARY & BENEFITSThe salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $150,204.00 - $232,776.00.
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 STATISTICSPursuant 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.
