Associate Dean of Operations (Academic Administrator)

Penn State University • Ferguson Township, PA

76d

About The Position

The Eberly College of Science at The Pennsylvania State University invites applications for the position of Associate Dean of Operations. This executive leadership role is a key member of the Dean’s core leadership team, charged with advancing strategic priorities, guiding operational excellence, and contributing to a culture of collaboration, inclusivity, and innovation. As the College undergoes important transformation, the Associate Dean of Operations will serve as a trusted advisor and strategic partner to the Dean. This role requires exceptional judgment, operational acumen, and leadership integrity. The successful candidate will represent the Dean in both internal and external engagements, provide counsel on complex issues, and foster effective communication and alignment across all college units. The Associate Dean of Operations will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the Eberly College of Science, aligning college operations with institutional priorities and the Dean’s vision. They will lead and coordinate strategic initiatives, implement high-impact policies, and manage change efforts across the college. As a key thought partner to the Dean, this individual will contribute to robust, informed decision-making and serve as a liaison between the Dean’s Office and academic departments to ensure timely execution of college priorities. The Associate Dean will also oversee the documentation and evaluation of operational processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. In addition to operational leadership, the Associate Dean will represent the Dean in high-level meetings, committees, and campus-wide engagements. They will communicate on behalf of the Dean with professionalism and strategic clarity, and will prepare executive briefings, data-informed reports, and presentations that support institutional goals. The successful candidate will demonstrate a deep understanding of the operations of a large public research university and a proven track record of success in strategic planning, operations management, and staff supervision. Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills are essential. Candidates must show a strong ability to navigate ambiguity, manage confidential information with discretion, and build consensus among diverse stakeholders. They should have experience in translating strategic vision into effective operational models and possess the analytical skills necessary to evaluate complex situations and recommend effective courses of action. The ideal candidate will be committed to fostering a positive organizational culture defined by collaboration, creativity, transparency, trust, and excellence. The Associate Dean will supervise senior administrative staff across areas such as facilities, communications, data analysis, and outreach. They will foster a collaborative and accountable work culture and lead initiatives to improve organizational performance and staff engagement. The role also requires effective stakeholder engagement and communication. The Associate Dean will build and maintain trust-based relationships with university leaders, faculty, staff, students, and external partners. They will promote shared governance through open, respectful, and inclusive dialogue, and clearly convey complex strategies to diverse audiences. Finally, the Associate Dean must handle highly sensitive personnel, financial, and strategic matters with the utmost confidentiality and discretion. This leader will model ethical decision-making, transparency, and integrity in all aspects of their work.

Requirements

• A Masters or higher is required; Ph.D or equivalent is strongly preferred.
• A minimum of ten (10) years of progressive leadership experience in higher education or a similarly complex organization is required.
• At least five (5) years in administrative leadership within a university setting.
• Experience at an R1 or research-intensive institution is preferred.
• Background in the sciences or experience supporting science-focused academic programs is preferred.
• Strong project management skills are highly preferred.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in translating strategic vision into effective operational models.
• Demonstrated courage and respect in engaging in difficult conversations.
• Ability to think strategically and anticipate broader impacts of decisions.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a trusted advisor and strategic partner to the Dean.
• Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the Eberly College of Science.
• Align college operations with institutional priorities and the Dean’s vision.
• Lead and coordinate strategic initiatives and implement high-impact policies.
• Manage change efforts across the college.
• Contribute to robust, informed decision-making.
• Serve as a liaison between the Dean’s Office and academic departments.
• Oversee the documentation and evaluation of operational processes.
• Represent the Dean in high-level meetings, committees, and campus-wide engagements.
• Prepare executive briefings, data-informed reports, and presentations.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Robust retirement plans.
• Generous 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Education Level: Master's degree