Project Manager, Rapid Response (TERM)

Vanderbilt University•Nashville, TN

29d•Onsite

About The Position

The Project Manager, Rapid Response (TERM) 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 Project Manager will work closely with team members across the division and other university leaders. Higher education experience is preferred, and the ideal candidate has a proven track record of managing complex projects with tight deadlines and working with senior leadership. Reporting to the Director of Operational Excellence, this role does not have supervisory responsibilities but requires strong leadership in project execution, process improvement, and stakeholder management. This position requires flexibility to adapt quickly to changing priorities, a results-oriented mindset, and the ability to work in-person on the Vanderbilt University campus as project needs dictate. The Communications and Marketing team at Vanderbilt is a dynamic, collaborative, and mission-driven group that delivers strategic communications and marketing initiatives across the university. Our work informs, engages, and inspires our audiences to participate in Vanderbilt’s academic and research mission. NOTE: A Term position is a staff position that exists for a period longer than six months but is not expected to last beyond one year. Although a position may exist for a specified or indefinite period, staff who accept term positions are not guaranteed employment for the entire period; they are employed for indefinite periods within the limit of the appointment. There are no guarantees of continued employment, either within the term or when the term ends.

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

Nice To Haves

Previous administrative experience with an institution of higher education is preferred
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.
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.