Assistant Director of Operations

Arizona State University•Tempe, AZ

1d•$65,000 - $95,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Director of Operations at the Learning Engineering Institute (LEI) provides leadership in managing, optimizing, and aligning administrative, financial, and operational functions with the institute’s strategic goals. This role serves as a key member of the leadership team, working closely with the Executive Director and university administration to drive operational efficiency, improve financial sustainability, and ensure compliance with institutional policies and regulations. The Assistant Director of Operations plays a vital role in strategic planning, budget oversight, personnel management, and operational execution, ensuring that the institute functions effectively and continues to grow as a leader in research and education.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree and five (5) years of experience appropriate to the area of assignment/field including two (2) years managerial experience; OR, Any equivalent combination of experience and/or training from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.
Ability to clearly communicate to perform essential duties.
Regular review of completed tasks.

Nice To Haves

Experience in higher education administration, research institute operations, or academic program management.
Experience with grant writing, funding agency requirements, and grant funded research administration.
Strong understanding of learning engineering, educational technology, and research program support.
Experience leading organizational change initiatives and process improvements.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with the Executive Director and senior leadership team to develop and implement long-term operational strategies.
Identify areas for efficiency improvements and lead initiatives to streamline workflows, enhance internal controls, and improve financial and administrative processes.
Work closely with faculty, researchers, and staff to ensure smooth execution of research projects and institute operations.
Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPls) to monitor and evaluate operational effectiveness.
Oversee space utilization, facility planning, and renovations to support the institute's growth and research activities.
Lead institute-wide process improvement initiatives and champion best practices in operations.
Oversee all non-grant financial operations, including budget forecasting, expense management, and financial reporting.
Develop and implement financial policies that align with university standards while ensuring fiscal responsibility and cost efficiency.
Prepare and analyze financial reports, providing recommendations to senior leadership regarding budget allocations, funding opportunities, and cost-saving strategies.
Ensure compliance with university financial policies, state regulations, and funding agency requirements for sponsored research and institute expenditures.
Manage procurement and contract administration, ensuring optimal resource allocation for research and administrative needs.
Lead workforce planning and talent management initiatives, ensuring appropriate staffing levels to support the institute’s operational needs.
Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and retention efforts, ensuring compliance with university HR policies and fostering a culture of excellence.
Provide guidance and mentorship to institute staff, facilitating professional development and performance management.
Manage and guide the work of operational staff supporting institute success and growth.
Ensure proper alignment of job classifications, salary structures, and HR policies within the institute.
Work closely with university HR to address personnel issues, grievances, and performance improvement plans.
Ensure adherence to university policies, state/federal regulations, and funding agency guidelines across all business and operational functions.
Coordinate internal and external audits, risk assessments, and compliance reviews, addressing findings and implementing corrective actions.
Maintain accurate records, documentation, and reporting systems to support decision-making and compliance efforts.
Serve as the primary liaison for university compliance offices regarding operational and financial audits.