Executive Director - University Enterprises, Inc. (UEI), Sacramento State

Another Source•Sacramento, CA

6h•$190,000 - $250,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Another Source's client, University Enterprises, Inc. (UEI), is recruiting an Executive Director to join their team in Sacramento, California. This executive leadership role offers the opportunity to guide a mission-driven, multi-entity enterprise that plays a critical role in advancing one of California’s leading public universities. This Sacramento-based role follows a hybrid schedule (3 days onsite, 2 remote). Here's a little about University Enterprises, Inc.: University Enterprises, Inc. (UEI) serves as Sacramento State’s recognized auxiliary organization, providing essential operational, financial, and entrepreneurial support to the University. UEI manages a $141 million annual enterprise that includes research and sponsored programs administration, retail and dining services, student housing, real estate development, and other revenue-generating operations that directly benefit the campus community. Operating within the CSU policy framework while maintaining the flexibility of a nonprofit corporation, UEI allows Sacramento State to innovate, grow strategic partnerships, and expand services in ways that directly support student success, faculty research, and community impact. With the upcoming retirement of a long-tenured Executive Director following 26 years of CSU service, UEI is entering a pivotal leadership transition and seeking a strategic, financially sophisticated, and relationship-driven executive to lead its next chapter. About this role: The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of UEI, reporting to the UEI Board of Directors and working closely with the President of Sacramento State. This leader holds full responsibility for the strategic direction, financial stewardship, compliance, and operational oversight of a complex portfolio of multi-million-dollar enterprises integral to the University’s mission. This is a highly visible, independent executive role requiring sound judgment, political acumen, and strong governance experience. You will serve as the bridge between the Board, University leadership, campus stakeholders, and external partners—ensuring UEI’s vision, goals, and business strategies align with and advance Sacramento State’s strategic priorities. With an anticipated transition period prior to the current Executive Director’s June 30 retirement, this role offers continuity, strong institutional support, and the opportunity to shape the long-term trajectory of the organization.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in business administration, public administration, pre-law, or a related field
Significant executive leadership experience within a large, complex profit or nonprofit enterprise
Demonstrated success leading diverse operational areas such as research administration, financial management (including fund accounting), housing, dining/retail operations, real estate development, marketing, and human resources
Strong financial acumen, including experience interpreting complex financial statements, managing cash flow, budgeting, forecasting, and long-term planning
Experience negotiating and overseeing sophisticated, multi-million-dollar commercial contracts
Demonstrated ability to lead within complex governance and regulatory environments requiring discretion and sound judgment
Experience working effectively with boards, executive leadership, faculty, staff, students, government agencies, and community partners
Strong understanding of technology systems that enhance organizational effectiveness and customer service
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills and demonstrated strategic planning capability
Must be legally eligible to drive in California and meet UEI driving and insurance standards
Must successfully complete fingerprinting and a background check and continue to meet established standards

Nice To Haves

Master of Business Administration (MBA)
California State Bar License
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) License

Responsibilities

Provide visionary leadership and strategic oversight for UEI in support of Sacramento State’s educational mission
Serve as the primary liaison to the UEI Board of Directors and maintain strong partnership with the University President
Ensure the financial health and long-term sustainability of UEI, including oversight of budgeting, reserves, forecasting, cash flow, and fiscal strategy
Maintain compliance with CSU auxiliary requirements, federal and state regulations, and applicable policies
Oversee administration of research and sponsored programs, ensuring effective grant and contract support infrastructure
Provide executive oversight of contracted bookstore, dining operations (retail and residential meal plans), and student housing
Lead funding, development, property management, and stewardship of UEI real estate assets
Identify and develop new entrepreneurial ventures and public/private partnerships aligned with University priorities
Oversee core administrative functions including finance, accounting, IT, HR, marketing, communications, safety, and service quality
Negotiate and manage complex, multi-million-dollar commercial contracts in collaboration with legal counsel and campus stakeholders
Lead, develop, and evaluate senior staff while fostering a culture of accountability, inclusion, and operational excellence
Recommend and implement policy in partnership with the Board and provide orientation to new Board members