Chief of Staff

University of Southern California•Los Angeles, CA

15h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Office of the Executive Vice President, Finance & Operations at the University of Southern California seeks a Chief of Staff to serve as a senior advisor and trusted partner to the Executive Vice President (EVP). Reporting directly to the EVP, the Chief of Staff will extend the EVP’s capacity to address complex issues, advance strategic priorities, and lead a broad portfolio of financial and operational functions. The role oversees the day-to-day operations of the EVP’s office and connects priorities, people, and initiatives across the university. The Chief of Staff will build relationships across USC, facilitate collaboration across organizational boundaries, and coordinate matters requiring the EVP’s attention. The successful candidate will be a confident, highly collaborative leader who communicates candidly, exercises sound judgment, offers direct and thoughtful counsel, and can challenge assumptions and raise concerns while remaining flexible and supportive. A cooperative working style, strong interpersonal instincts, and the ability to build trust at all levels of the university are essential. The position leads office operations and staff, supports strategic planning and institutional initiatives, oversees financial activities, advises on complex matters, and represents the EVP with university and external stakeholders. The priority deadline for full consideration is December 6, 2026. A resume and cover letter are required and may be submitted as one attachment. The annual base salary range is $193,000–$250,000. USC offers a competitive compensation package and a comprehensive Total Rewards program, including health and welfare benefits, retirement programs, paid time off, professional development opportunities, and other resources for employees and their families.

Requirements

Master’s degree, or a combination of experience and education substituting for the minimum education requirement.
Seven years of directly related administrative management experience in a university, corporate, or similarly complex organizational environment.
Demonstrated experience planning, organizing, and supporting operations of a large, complex organization.
Thorough knowledge of management principles, budgeting, finance, and applicable laws and regulations.
Exceptional interpersonal skills and ability to establish credibility and productive relationships throughout an organization.
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including confidence and judgment in candid communication with senior leaders.
Ability to use technology efficiently and effectively in support of operational and organizational needs.
Resume and cover letter required; they may be submitted as one attachment.

Nice To Haves

Ten years of progressively responsible administrative or operational leadership experience.
Demonstrated leadership experience within an academic institution or similarly complex, mission-driven organization.
Experience advising a senior executive, leading through others, and working with senior leaders and other high-level stakeholders.
Ability to manage competing priorities, navigate sensitive matters, build relationships across a large organization, and offer an independent perspective while remaining collaborative.

Responsibilities

Serve as a senior advisor and thought partner to the EVP, providing candid counsel, sound judgment, and a broad institutional perspective.
Identify priorities, anticipate needs, and create capacity for the EVP to address complex financial, operational, and organizational matters.
Oversee the day-to-day operations of the EVP’s office, including staff leadership, budget administration, workflow, resource allocation, and operational planning.
Build and maintain relationships across USC, connecting schools, administrative units, and university leaders to advance shared priorities.
Facilitate collaboration across organizational boundaries and help stakeholders navigate complex or sensitive issues.
Assist with developing and implementing strategic plans, priorities, and performance measures, and monitor progress and follow-through.
Coordinate short- and long-range initiatives, integrating competing requests and priorities with the EVP’s objectives and the university’s mission.
Lead and support special projects by conducting analyses, evaluating initiatives, interpreting findings, and developing recommendations.
Serve as a primary liaison between the EVP’s office and university leadership, faculty, staff, students, trustees, donors, civic leaders, and other internal and external partners.
Directly or indirectly manage administrative and professional staff, establishing organizational structures, staffing priorities, and performance expectations.
Oversee office financial activities, including expenditures, financial reporting, trend analysis, and budget forecasting.
Identify opportunities to strengthen operations, improve communication, and increase coordination and efficiency across the university.
Recommend, interpret, and implement policies and procedures, ensuring compliance and consistent application.
Address complex or sensitive matters referred to the EVP’s office and work with stakeholders to determine an effective path forward.
Oversee executive-level meetings, events, and special initiatives, including agendas, presentations, correspondence, briefings, and supporting documentation.
Represent the EVP on university committees, councils, task forces, and other internal or external groups as requested.
Monitor current events, legislation, and emerging issues that may affect the university or the EVP’s portfolio.
Perform other related duties as assigned; duties may be added or changed.