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Managing director, Michigan Neuroscience Institute (MNI)

Job Summary

The Michigan Neuroscience Institute (MNI) is a vibrant, interdisciplinary research community at the University of Michigan dedicated to advancing our understanding of the brain and nervous system. With a strong emphasis on collaborative, cross-disciplinary research, MNI supports a diverse group of scientists exploring the fundamental mechanisms of neural function and dysfunction. Our faculty and affiliates lead innovative studies in areas such as neurodegeneration, neural development, cognition, addiction, and mental health. Through cutting-edge research, training, and public engagement, MNI fosters scientific discovery that drives progress in neuroscience and improves human health.

The Michigan Neuroscience Institute (MNI) is seeking a dynamic and experienced Managing Director to lead the Institute's administrative functions. This pivotal leadership role is responsible for translating MNI's strategic vision into actionable operational plans, with a particular emphasis on infrastructure development, cross-unit coordination, and execution of major initiatives. The Managing Director will oversee institute operations, research, budgeting, and resource allocation; guide staff deployment and performance management; and lead the implementation of governance structures and communications strategies. This individual will partner closely with the Executive Director and project management team to ensure institutional alignment, efficient use of resources, and sustained impact across MNI?s research and outreach efforts. The ideal candidate will bring significant leadership experience, strategic insight, operational expertise, and a commitment to fostering a collaborative, high-performing environment that advances the mission of neuroscience discovery at the University of Michigan.

Mission Statement

Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally. Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.

Responsibilities*

Strategic Leadership and Institutional Planning

+ Partner with the Executive Director to develop, maintain, and implement MNI's strategic and operational plans.

+ Lead or coordinate institute-wide strategic initiatives, ensuring accountability benchmarks, alignment with staffing capacity, and scenario-based planning.

+ Serve as a spokesperson and representative for MNI at development events, media opportunities, and campus-wide initiatives.

Administrative and Operational Oversight

+ Direct and oversee all administrative functions including budget development, financial management, human resources, space planning, procurement, and shared equipment management.

+ Establish and refine standard operating procedures for institute operations, ensuring efficiency, transparency, and alignment with university policies.

+ Provide oversight of governance structures (Executive Board, Leadership Council, Advisory Boards), ensuring effective engagement and decision-making.

Finance and Resource Management

+ Develop, monitor, and manage the Institute's operating budget.

+ Allocate resources strategically in support of MNI's research infrastructure, membership programs, events, and communications.

+ Ensure compliance with university financial policies and promote long-term financial sustainability.

Staff Leadership and Supervision

+ Manage and supervise the MNI administrative team, including hiring, training, performance management, and professional development.

+ Ensure staff roles and goals are aligned with institutional priorities through structured performance planning and development opportunities.

+ Build a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Communications, Development, and External Relations

+ Oversee implementation of MNI's communications strategy, including website, newsletters, reports, and event promotion.

+ Partner with development officers and university advancement staff to support donor relations, fundraising initiatives, and alumni engagement.

+ Represent MNI at major events such as the MNI Neuroscience Conference and other high-visibility outreach activities.

Membership and Infrastructure Development

+ Lead efforts to expand and integrate MNI membership, ensuring faculty and affiliates are engaged in institute programming and governance.

+ Support long-term infrastructure planning to accommodate growth and enhance cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Collaboration with Project Management

+ Work closely with project management staff to integrate grant coordination, pilot programs, and collaborative assessments with institute-wide operations.

+ Ensure complementary responsibilities across project and administrative leadership, avoiding redundancy while strengthening institutional impact.

Required Qualifications*

+ Advanced degree in a relevant field (e.g., MPH, MHSA, MBA) or equivalent combination of education and experience.

+ Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible administrative experience, including leadership of staff and budget management.

+ Demonstrated ability to lead strategic planning and operational implementation within a complex organizational structure.

+ Knowledge of university policies, financial systems, and administrative processes.

+ Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

+ Proven track record of staff supervision, performance management, and team alignment.

Desired Qualifications*

+ Experience in a research-focused academic or interdisciplinary organizational setting.

+ Familiarity with governance structures and faculty engagement in higher education.

+ Experience with development, communications, and large-scale event planning in an academic context.

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about thework modes (https://hr.umich.edu/working-u-m/my-employment/ways-we-work-resource-center/ways-we-work-implementation-group/modes-work) .

Background Screening

Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.

Job Detail

Job Opening ID

268512

Working Title

Managing director, Michigan Neuroscience Institute (MNI)

Job Title

Institute Managing Director

Work Location

Ann Arbor Campus

Ann Arbor, MI

Modes of Work

Onsite

Full/Part Time

Full-Time

Regular/Temporary

Regular

FLSA Status

Exempt

Organizational Group

Medical School

Department

MM Michigan Neuroscience Inst

Posting Begin/End Date

9/10/2025 - 10/10/2025

Career Interest

Administration