Associate Vice President, Executive Operations & Operational Excellence

Howard University Hospital • Washington, DC

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Vice President, Operations & Operational Excellence serves as a strategic leader responsible for driving enterprise-wide operational effectiveness, performance improvement, and process optimization across Howard University Hospital. Reporting directly to the Hospital President, this role partners with executive, clinical, and operational leaders to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance patient and stakeholder experience through disciplined execution and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Demonstrated success leading complex operational or performance improvement initiatives
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data-driven decision-making skills
• Executive-level communication and presentation skills
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence without authority
• Expertise in project management, process improvement, and operational reporting
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced healthcare environment
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Healthcare Administration, Performance Management, or a related field
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in business management, operations, or leadership roles
• Experience in healthcare operations is strongly preferred

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree
• Lean Six Sigma
• Project Management certification
• Other relevant process improvement certifications
• Consulting experience with a focus on operations management
• Experience in data analysis, financial performance, and budget management

Responsibilities

• Serve as a strategic advisor to the Hospital President and Executive Leadership Team on operational priorities and system-wide initiatives.
• Lead enterprise-wide operational excellence and performance improvement efforts to enhance quality, efficiency, access, and patient experience.
• Partner with clinical and operational leaders to identify workflow inefficiencies and implement sustainable, data-driven process improvements.
• Direct large-scale, cross-functional initiatives and special projects from concept through execution.
• Design, standardize, and implement operational and administrative processes that support hospital performance and scalability.
• Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs), dashboards, and scorecards aligned with organizational goals.
• Analyze operational and financial performance data to evaluate initiative effectiveness and guide continuous improvement efforts.
• Lead change management initiatives, including communication, training, and stakeholder engagement, to ensure adoption of new workflows.
• Build strong relationships across departments to ensure alignment, accountability, and effective execution of initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, accreditation, and organizational standards across all operational initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned consistent with the scope and responsibility of the role.

Benefits

• Competitive executive compensation
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits
• Retirement plans with employer contribution
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development and leadership growth opportunities
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact within an academic healthcare environment

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees