Chief of Staff

Howard University•Upper Merion Township, PA

18d•$95,000 - $105,000

About The Position

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission. At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth. Here is what we offer: Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture Join Howard University and thrive with us! https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness JOB PURPOSE: Reporting directly to the Dean, the Chief of Staff to the Dean serves as the principal member of the Dean’s Office responsible for the central coordination of administrative operations, strategic initiatives, and executive-level support. The incumbent functions as trusted counsel to the Dean and provides high-level leadership in planning, project execution, and office management. The role requires discretion, sound judgment, and independent decision-making to support leadership priorities and ensure timely progress on key initiatives and stakeholder needs.

Requirements

Advanced degree required, preferably in Communications or a related field.
Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible and relevant professional experience.
Demonstrated experience managing complex projects, executive-level support functions, and confidential information.
Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively across diverse audiences.
Ability to manage competing priorities with professionalism, accuracy, and urgency.
Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and follow-through.
Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and operate with discretion.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build trust with senior leaders and stakeholders.
Ability to develop systems, improve processes, and streamline operations.
Ability to prepare high-quality executive-level materials (briefings, summaries, communications, and meeting documentation).

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting senior leadership within higher education, government, nonprofit, or similarly complex organizations.
Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional initiatives requiring influence without direct authority.
Experience supporting advisory boards, governance groups, or external stakeholder councils.
Familiarity with communications disciplines and related academic and professional organizations.
Experience supporting senior leadership within higher education, government, nonprofit, or similarly complex organizations.
Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional initiatives requiring influence without direct authority.
Experience supporting advisory boards, governance groups, or external stakeholder councils.
Familiarity with communications disciplines and related academic and professional organizations.

Responsibilities

Executive Office Leadership & Administration Oversees the efficient day-to-day operations of the Office of the Dean to ensure timely and high-quality administrative support.
Establishes and maintains organized systems for managing schedules, workflows, communications, and priority tracking.
Anticipates operational needs and resolves issues proactively to ensure continuity of service and support.
Strategic Planning & Project Execution Leads and coordinates high-visibility initiatives and special projects requiring cross-functional collaboration and influence.
Develops project plans, timelines, and execution strategies to support the Dean’s priorities and school objectives.
Tracks progress and ensure deliverables are completed on time and aligned with expectations.
Advisory Support & Decision Readiness Provides strategic counsel and administrative guidance to the Dean regarding evolving initiatives, internal operations, and stakeholder considerations.
Synthesizes information, proposals, and requests to ensure the Dean receives contextual analysis and actionable recommendations.
Independently interprets policies, procedures, and leadership decisions and supports consistent communication and implementation.
Communication & Stakeholder Engagement Drafts, reviews, and delivers executive-level communications to internal and external audiences with clarity and professionalism.
Represents the Dean in meetings and correspondence as delegated, including initial outreach, follow-ups, and relationship management.
Builds productive partnerships with faculty, staff, institutional leaders, and external constituents to support alignment and outcomes.
Committee and Team Leadership Serves as the Dean’s delegate to lead committees, working groups, and project teams; facilitates collaboration and accountability.
Provides direction and support to assigned staff and/or consultants, including monitoring performance and ensuring deliverable completion.
Governance & Board Support Serves as the primary administrator for the Board of Visitors, including planning and execution of biannual meetings.
Coordinates meeting logistics, agendas, materials, communications, and follow-up actions to support governance requirements.
Continuous Improvement & Process Development Develops and improves processes and procedures to strengthen efficiency, productivity, and the constituent experience.
Streamlines workflows across the Dean’s Office and implements tools that support sustainable operations.
Performs other duties as assigned in support of the Dean’s Office and school mission.