Managing Director

University of Chicago • Chicago, IL

2d • $120,000 - $140,000

About The Position

The Managing Director oversees all aspects of the administration of the Department of Chemistry, managing a team of professional staff responsible for the development and implementation of the Department of Chemistry’s research and education mission. Communicates and collaborates with internal and external partners and divisional/University leadership to achieve strategic priorities. Identifies new external partners to advance strategic priorities. Sets standards and guidelines for staff/faculty interactions. Ensures the department meets financial targets.

Requirements

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
• Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.
• Resume (required)
• Cover Letter (required)
• References (required)

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree.
• Experience in an academic environment.
• Experience in a research laboratory environment.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
• Professional demeanor, including tact, discretion, and a customer service-oriented approach.
• Excellent strategic planning, critical thinking, analytical, and persuasion/negotiation skills.
• Management skills.
• Strong writing skills.
• Strong leadership skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrates the skill and willingness to take initiative and to proactively anticipate organizational needs including the ability to meet deadlines.
• Event planning experience.
• Demonstrated ability to influence people to meet goals and deadlines, and work collaboratively with senior leadership, colleagues, and other constituents.
• Results-oriented leader who is self-motivated.
• Analytical and detailed manager with a focus on excellence.
• Commitment to providing a high level of service and working in a team environment.
• High degree of professionalism.
• Ability to handle confidential information with the utmost discretion.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and under tight deadlines.
• Strong analytical and organizational skills.
• Thoughtful decision-making skills.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Serves as the most senior staff leader within the Department of Chemistry, working closely with Department Chair to set administrative and operational goals for the department and implement strategic plans.
• Acts as primary department liaison with Division on matters of budget, space, facilities, human resources, and development.
• Manages the daily operations of the department.
• Oversees and manages the work of at least 5 administrative staff.
• Oversees departmental facilities, and the operations, allocation, and moving of research and office space.
• Direct management of department operating account.
• Advises Chair and liaises with the Local Business Center on business and financial functions.
• Supervises departmental staff who ensure that that department’s HR needs are met including oversight of training, reviews, performance management, and termination of staff.
• Directs the work of departmental staff to ensure that the appointment of postdocs and visiting scholars works smoothly and efficiently.
• Allocates faculty and department support staff from the administrative pool.
• Works closely with faculty, staff, and other campus leaders to assure the effective function of the departmental mission.
• Oversees the work of the Building Manager to ensure that proper functioning of classrooms, teaching labs, and academic mission.
• Works with Chair and Faculty Affairs Administrator on matters of faculty recruitment and retention, such as laboratory and office set-ups.
• Works with Chair and Department Instrumentation Committee to assure proper functioning of departmental core facilities (instrumentation, staff, and recharge rates).
• Oversees department’s internal and external communication, department events, and alumni relations.
• Works with Chair and EDI committee on department diversity initiatives and training.
• Works with Environment Health & Safety, PSD Laboratory Safety Specialist, Safety Committee, and research group safety representatives to ensure safety compliance and the safe operation of research and educational labs.
• Troubleshoots a range of complex problems for the department in collaboration with central offices.
• Manages the daily operations of an organizational unit or assists with managing the daily operations of a larger organizational unit, primarily in the areas of financial, purchasing, grant, facilities, human resources, and support services management.
• Ensures compliance of staff with organizational, University, and other relevant policies and guidelines.
• Manages all financial activities, including financial analysis and reporting, budgeting, accounting, accounts receivable/payable, and procurement.
• Oversees facilities management, including renovations, moves, maintenance, and ongoing facilities operations.
• Manages the development of all contracts, including those with vendors and other institutions.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Benefits

• The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees