Chief of Staff

University of Southern California•Los Angeles, CA

7d•$193,000 - $250,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Office of the Executive Vice President, Finance & Operations at the University of Southern California is seeking 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 helps extend the EVP’s capacity to address complex issues, advance strategic priorities, and lead a broad portfolio of financial and operational functions. The Chief of Staff oversees the day-to-day operations of the EVP’s office and connects priorities, people, and initiatives across the university. The role builds relationships throughout USC, facilitates collaboration across organizational boundaries, and ensures coordination and follow-through on matters requiring the EVP’s attention. The successful candidate will communicate candidly, exercise sound judgment, offer thoughtful counsel and an independent perspective, and remain flexible and supportive while building trust at all levels of the university. For full consideration, application materials were requested by the priority deadline of 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 describes its compensation package as including health and welfare benefits, retirement programs, paid time off, professional development opportunities, and other resources for employees and their families. USC is an equal opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities.

Requirements

Master’s degree, or a combination of experience and education that substitutes 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 the operations of a large, complex organization.
Thorough knowledge of management principles, budgeting, finance, and applicable laws and regulations.
Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to establish credibility and productive relationships throughout an organization.
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including the confidence and judgment to communicate candidly with senior leaders.
Ability to use technology efficiently and effectively in support of operational and organizational needs.
Strong planning and organizational skills.

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.

Responsibilities

Serve as a senior advisor and thought partner to the EVP, providing candid counsel, sound judgment, and a broad institutional perspective.
Help maximize the EVP’s effectiveness by identifying priorities, anticipating needs, and creating capacity 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, including monitoring progress and ensuring follow-through.
Coordinate short- and long-range initiatives, integrating competing requests and priorities in alignment with the EVP’s objectives and the university’s mission.
Lead and support special projects by conducting analyses, evaluating proposed 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 the office’s 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 appropriate 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 preparation of agendas, presentations, correspondence, briefing materials, and supporting documentation.
Represent the EVP on university committees, councils, task forces, and other internal or external groups, as requested.
Remain informed about current events, legislation, and emerging issues that may affect the university or the EVP’s portfolio.
Perform other related duties as assigned; the university reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.