Assistant Director of Specialty Programs

Rice University

2d•$60,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Reporting to the Associate Director of Specialty Programs, the Assistant Director provides operational and programmatic support for undergraduate business programs at the Virani Undergraduate School of Business. This role focuses on managing student-facing events, communications, and ensuring smooth operations for the program. The Assistant Director supports programs such as the Moody Scholars Program, student clubs, and experiential learning opportunities, while assisting the Director and Associate Director in implementing program logistics, student engagement strategies, and academic resources. This position may also provide occasional support for other degree programs within Specialty Programs, including MBA@Rice and the Master of Accounting (MAcc) program. The ideal candidate thrives in a collaborative environment and takes initiative to execute projects independently. They should be highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive, with strong communication skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities. Experience working with undergraduate students, student organizations, or academic programs is highly desirable. Rice Business primarily delivers residential classes and activities taking place almost daily between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. We value a highly collaborative and community-based culture, with expectations to provide in-person support and services to all members of our community. Remote work options are limited. Most employment activities are required to be performed in person and on campus. This in-person approach is central to the successful achievement of our research and academic missions. This position may be offered as a hybrid role and may combine both in-office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration. Remote work opportunities may be extended to the candidate following the successful conclusion of the probationary period. This position requires occasional evening and weekend event attendance. Per Rice policy 440 [https://policy.rice.edu/440], work arrangements may be subject to change.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree
In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience above and beyond what is required may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis
2+ years of professional experience (or equivalent)
In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education above and beyond what is required may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis
Strong organizational and project management skills; ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience with newsletters, surveys, or similar communication tools
Proactive problem-solving and attention to detail
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team
Experience with event planning, student programming, or academic support preferred
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with online survey tools, website content management, or databases is a plus
Attention to detail and a service-focused approach

Nice To Haves

Experience in higher education or student-facing roles
Experience with undergraduate programming, communications, or event planning
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment

Responsibilities

Support program operations by coordinating events, communications, and resources
Assist with student engagement, clubs, and scholars programs
Maintain resource repositories and update program-related website content
Track program participation and outcomes to support improvements
Support department and area mission, vision, and goals
Provide oversight for program area(s) related to advisement of programs, risk management, leadership development, and financial responsibility
Develop and enforce operating policies and procedures for the area
Manage program logistics, including budgeting and risk management
Advise and guide student leaders in the planning and implementation of program and event logistics, including risk management
Develop, plan, and implement programming and outreach for student leaders and the campus community
Perform other duties as assigned
Build and maintain relationships across the business school and university to ensure smooth support for undergraduate programs
Work closely with program leadership to meet goals for program growth and success
May supervise student workers or interns