Strategic Initiatives Analyst - Stanford University

Another Source • Stanford, CA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

This is a hybrid, 3-year fixed-term role at Stanford University, supporting high-impact initiatives across the university. The position is roughly 60% analytics and 40% project-focused, blending quantitative research with strategic initiative support. The role involves working on high-visibility initiatives related to student financial aid, institutional outcomes, and university-wide reporting. Success requires strong analytical skills, the ability to translate complex data into compelling narratives, and guide stakeholders through insights and change. The analyst will report to senior leadership and contribute to advancing Institutional Research & Decision Support (IR&DS) priorities while developing expertise in strategic communications, research, and project execution.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and at least four years of experience applying quantitative and analytical methods (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
• Strong foundation in data analysis, including experience working with large datasets and statistical tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar
• Proven ability to communicate complex information clearly through written reports and presentations to non-technical and leadership audiences
• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, R, or similar) and the ability to tell a compelling story with data
• Demonstrated project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and drive initiatives forward
• Strong collaboration and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work across teams and influence stakeholders
• Familiarity with research design, data collection, and analytical problem-solving approaches
• Flexible, thoughtful analytical mindset with the ability to balance precision and practicality
• Interest in or experience with strategic planning concepts

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with AI tools to enhance analysis, reporting, or workflow efficiency is a plus
• Advanced degree in social sciences, education, statistics, or a related field is preferred

Responsibilities

• Designing research approaches, gathering data, and applying appropriate analytical and statistical methods to answer complex institutional questions
• Translating data into clear, compelling insights through reports, presentations, and visualizations that influence decision-making
• Partnering with stakeholders across the university to understand needs, gather data, and deliver actionable recommendations
• Leading and supporting IR&DS initiatives through the full project lifecycle, including planning, execution, monitoring, and communication
• Creating and maintaining documentation on data sources, definitions, methodologies, and best practices to improve transparency and usability
• Communicating findings and recommendations to faculty, staff, and senior leaders with clarity and impact
• Facilitating cross-functional collaboration, helping teams align on priorities, timelines, and outcomes
• Supporting change management efforts by developing communication strategies and materials for key initiatives
• Identifying and incorporating external benchmarks or comparative data to enhance analyses

Benefits

• Comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support employee well-being, professional growth, and work-life balance.
• Eligible for Stanford benefits with some exceptions (e.g., tuition reimbursement may not be included) as a fixed-term position.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level