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Herkimer College is seeking qualified applicants for a full-time Chief of Staff and Director of Operations.

As a member of the College's senior leadership team, the selected individual will serve as a trusted advisor and strategic partner to the President by providing direction, coordination, and operational oversight that advance the College's mission, strategic priorities, and student success goals. Additionally, he/she will strengthen executive decision-making and institutional performance through effective communication, proactive planning, shared governance, cross-functional collaboration, and continuous improvement as well as supporting alignment among senior leadership, SUNY System Administration, government entities, and regional partners while promoting a culture of excellence and innovation across the institution.

Major responsibilities will include:

1. Serve as the President's principal aide, advising on strategy, governance, communications, and community relations while ensuring efficient operations of the Office of the President.

2. Provide executive coordination for cabinet initiatives, ensuring alignment, timely execution, and accountability for presidential and institutional priorities.

3. Manage the President's schedule, prioritizing strategic engagements and optimizing internal and external relationship management.

4. Coordinate operational planning across administrative and academic support functions, including infrastructure, facilities, and workforce development.

5. Lead and monitor high-impact, cross-functional projects with measurable outcomes and timely progress.

6. Collaborate with Marketing and Communications on messaging, media requests, and public representation of the president and the College.

7. Strengthen government and system-level relations, advocating for institutional priorities and ensuring policy alignment and compliance.

8. Prepare materials for Board of Trustees meetings and committees, supporting effective

governance and transparency.

9. Provide operational insight and support for infrastructure planning, facilities development,

and information technology environments.

10. Support workforce development strategies and employer partnerships that contribute to

regional economic vitality and student success.

11. Assist with planning and coordination of major institutional events that elevate executive

visibility and stakeholder engagement.

12. Enhance communication and collaboration to ensure consistent execution of leadership

directives and organizational readiness.

13. Identify and drive process improvements that enhance operational efficiency, streamline

workflows, and strengthen service delivery across the institution.

14. Prepare briefings, decision-support materials, and presentations to inform executive actions

and external advocacy.

15. Represent the President at meetings and events to advance institutional interests.

16. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Job Requirements:

Minimum Experience and Educational Background:

Master's degree in business, public administration or policy, education, organizational development, or related field.

Ten years of progressively responsible leadership or operational experience. Experience leading complex, cross-functional initiatives with successful execution.

Demonstrated ability to lead through influence in operational areas where technical expertise may reside within other campus units, ensuring alignment and accountability.

Proven ability to manage high-volume, fast-paced workloads and shifting priorities.

Strong analytical and creative problem-solving skills with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Demonstrated ability to establish performance expectations, monitor progress, and use data and feedback to ensure accountability and continuous improvement across institutional initiatives.

High ethical standards, confidentiality, and sound judgment in sensitive situations.

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to navigate complex issues. Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite of products.

Preferred Experience:

Experience fostering and supporting effective shared governance with faculty leadership. Demonstrated success implementing process improvement methodologies.

Experience in workforce development, institutional technology, or capital/infrastructure planning.

Familiarity with Board governance, accreditation, and higher education planning processes.

Additional Information:

Salary range: $116,515 -$194,191 (commensurate with qualifications and experience)