Project Manager, High Priority Initiatives

Vanderbilt University•Nashville, TN

16h

About The Position

The Project Manager, High Priority Initiatives is a key member of the Communications and Marketing division at Vanderbilt University. This role is responsible for driving high impact projects with quick turnarounds, managing complex initiatives from conception to delivery, and coordinating cross-functional efforts across the university. The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced, high-pressure environments and excels at keeping multiple projects on track while delivering measurable results. The Communications and Marketing team at Vanderbilt University is a dynamic and deeply collaborative group. The division, with all of its departments and sub-teams, serves as the institution-wide center of excellence for communications and marketing, developing and executing strategies that inform, engage and inspire others to participate in Vanderbilt University’s global academic and research mission. The division is a key strategic adviser and partner for other divisions in the university, providing comprehensive plans and thoughtful analysis on messaging opportunities and constraints. The Communications and Marketing team continuously seeks innovative solutions to new and emerging challenges in order to deliver results at scale to advance the larger mission, values and priorities of the university.

Requirements

A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education is necessary.
At least five years of related work experience is necessary.
Experience managing multiple and varied projects simultaneously to meet ambitious deadlines and achieve short- and long-term goals is necessary.
Proven experience managing complex projects with fast-turn requirements and high visibility outcomes.
Demonstrated ability to prioritize, organize, and execute multiple projects simultaneously.
Strong experience with project management tools, processes, and reporting.
Excellent communication skills, including ability to work with senior leadership and cross-functional teams.
Strong attention to detail while maintaining a results-oriented focus.
Comfort in a fast-paced, dynamic environment where priorities may shift rapidly.

Nice To Haves

Previous administrative experience with an institution of higher education is preferred.
Understanding of higher education or large organizational communications preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead high-impact, fast-turn projects from planning through execution, ensuring deliverables are completed on time and aligned with strategic priorities.
Coordinate cross-functional teams and stakeholders, ensuring clear communication and timely approvals for all initiatives.
Track and manage multiple projects simultaneously, providing visibility on status, risks, and next steps.
Prioritize projects and tasks dynamically, balancing quick-turn initiatives with longer-term strategic efforts.
Support the development of metrics and dashboards to measure project outcomes and impact.
Prepare executive-ready materials, including talking points, project summaries, and proposals, under tight deadlines.
Continuously improve workflows and processes to streamline project delivery and increase team efficiency.
Operate with discretion and professionalism, maintaining confidentiality when working with university leadership and sensitive information.
Leverage project management tools such as Wrike to maintain organization and accountability.
Collaborate effectively with a diverse range of audiences—including students, faculty, staff, alumni, and vendors—to ensure project success.
Work outside standard business hours as needed to meet deadlines and support urgent projects; this includes nights, weekends, and being on-call.