Southern Methodist University

Program Specialist for Leadership Programs

DALLAS, TXPosted 30+ days ago

Job summary

  • Job post source

    This job is directly from Southern Methodist University

  • Job overview

    The Program Specialist for Leadership Programs at Southern Methodist University supports and manages leadership initiatives to develop student leadership skills across the university.

  • Responsibilities and impact

    The role involves managing leadership program operations, facilitating training and workshops, advising student leaders, supervising assistants, coordinating with donors, supporting large-scale student activities, and incorporating leadership development theories.

  • Compensation and benefits

    Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications; benefits include health, dental, vision plans, wellness programs, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities including tuition benefits.

  • Experience and skills

    A Bachelor's degree is required, Master's preferred, with at least three years of experience; skills in leadership development, communication, problem-solving, organization, and proficiency in Microsoft Office are needed; training in CliftonStrengths, MBTI, DISC is preferred.

  • Career development

    SMU offers professional and personal development opportunities, including tuition benefits, supporting employee growth and learning.

  • Work environment and culture

    SMU values diversity, academic freedom, and ethical leadership, providing a supportive environment with a focus on student engagement and community.

  • Company information

    Southern Methodist University is a private university in Dallas with over 12,000 students, known for research excellence, leadership development, and strong community ties.

  • Team overview

    The position is within the Student Center and Activities department, focusing on leadership programs and student engagement, working closely with student leaders and university staff.

  • Job location and travel

    The job is on-campus in Dallas, Texas, requiring in-person presence with occasional evening or weekend hours; no travel is required.

  • Application process

    The position is open until filled; no specific application instructions or deadlines are provided.

  • Unique job features

    The role uniquely integrates leadership theory with practical student development, managing endowed programs and facilitating diverse leadership training initiatives.

Company overview

Southern Methodist University (SMU) is a private research university located in Dallas, Texas, known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education and research. Established in 1911, SMU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including business, law, engineering, and the humanities. The university generates revenue through tuition, research grants, and donations, and it is renowned for its vibrant campus life, extensive alumni network, and commitment to community engagement. Notable milestones in its history include the establishment of the Cox School of Business and the Dedman School of Law, which have contributed significantly to its academic reputation.

How to land this job

  • Position your resume to highlight your expertise in leadership development, student advising, and program management, emphasizing your ability to facilitate training and workshops aligned with institutional leadership frameworks at Southern Methodist University.

  • Showcase your experience in supervising and mentoring student leaders and staff, as well as your skills in managing resources and collaborating with diverse university constituencies, including donors and internal stakeholders.

  • Apply through multiple platforms such as SMU’s official career site and LinkedIn to maximize your application visibility and follow up through both channels for better engagement.

  • Connect on LinkedIn with professionals in SMU’s Student Center & Activities division or Student Life department; start conversations by referencing recent leadership initiatives at SMU or asking about how leadership programs integrate with student success strategies.

  • Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'leadership development,' 'student advising,' 'program facilitation,' 'CliftonStrengths,' 'MBTI,' 'DISC,' and 'student leadership programs' to ensure your resume passes automated screenings.

  • Leverage Jennie Johnson’s Power Apply feature to automate tailored applications, identify multiple application portals, and discover LinkedIn contacts for networking, allowing you to focus your energy on preparing for interviews and refining your leadership narrative.

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