Academic Initiatives Strategist

Western Governors University•Salt Lake City, UT

1d•$80,300 - $120,400•Remote

About The Position

The Academic Initiatives Strategist plays a key role in developing and implementing academic initiatives at the University that create opportunities for students and support the university's Key Results. This position collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the successful execution of academic strategic initiatives. The role is instrumental in analyzing, designing, and implementing solutions that improve student outcomes and contribute to the learn-and-work ecosystem.

Requirements

Solid understanding of current trends and challenges in higher education, particularly related to student success and career pathways.
Knowledge of project management methodologies and best practices in academic settings.
Understanding of data analysis techniques and their application in evaluating academic programs.
Familiarity with innovative educational practices, including skills-based learning and digital credentialing.
Knowledge of grant writing processes and funding opportunities in higher education.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and derive actionable insights.
Proficient project management skills, including planning, execution, and monitoring of academic initiatives.
Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, to convey ideas and results to various stakeholders.
Collaborative skills to work effectively across departments and with external partners.
Intermediate to advanced proficiency in data analysis tools and project management software.
Ability to develop and propose new academic initiatives aligned with institutional goals.
Capability to evaluate program effectiveness and suggest evidence-based improvements.
Ability to contribute to strategic planning efforts and implement innovative solutions.
Capacity to manage stakeholder relationships and facilitate cross-departmental cooperation.
Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Capability to translate strategic directions into actionable plans and measurable outcomes.
Ability to mentor junior team members and contribute to a positive team culture.
Capacity to balance multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail.
Ability to think creatively and propose solutions to complex academic challenges.
Capability to support change management efforts and promote adoption of new initiatives.
Bachelor's Degree in a related field.
4 years of relevant, progressive experience in higher education, education technology, or related field.
Equivalent relevant experience performing the essential functions of this job may substitute for education degree requirements. Generally, equivalent relevant experience is defined as 1 year of experience for 1 year of education and is the discretion of the hiring manager.

Nice To Haves

Master's Degree in a related field.
2 years of skills implementation experience.

Responsibilities

Develop and propose new academic initiatives and programs.
Manage specific high-impact initiatives.
Implement innovative solutions to advance academic initiatives.
Support change management efforts for cross-functional implementation.
Analyze data and gather insights into program and student performance.
Evaluate program effectiveness and suggest refinements.
Contribute to efforts supporting access and completion for underserved populations.
Use data analysis to inform decision-making and strategy refinement.
Engage with internal stakeholders across departments.
Participate in external partnerships to support initiative goals.
Coordinate cross-departmental efforts to enhance student success.
Research current trends in the learn-and-work ecosystem.
Develop expertise in areas such as student pathways, skills-based practices, and digital credentialing.
Contribute to the university's knowledge base on innovative academic practices.
Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations on academic strategies and outcomes.
Communicate project status and results to relevant stakeholders.
Identify and research potential grant opportunities.
Contribute significantly to grant proposal writing and development.
Assist in managing awarded grants, including budget oversight and reporting.
Provide mentorship to inspire and develop colleagues.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned.