Columbia University

Associate Director, Strategy and Operations

NEW YORK, NYPosted 30+ days ago

Job summary

  • Job post source

    This job is directly from Columbia University

  • Job overview

    The Associate Director of Strategy and Operations at Columbia University's Center for Public Research and Leadership leads strategic and operational functions to support the center's mission in preparing graduate students for leadership in public education and social sectors.

  • Responsibilities and impact

    The role involves managing financial planning and reporting, vendor and partner contracts, student academic administration, human resources support, and general operational activities to ensure smooth center functions and growth.

  • Compensation and benefits

    The salary range is $120,000 to $135,000, with compensation based on qualifications and experience; specific benefits are not detailed but likely include university standard offerings.

  • Experience and skills

    Candidates must have an advanced degree in relevant fields and 4-6 years of significant experience, with strong strategic thinking, communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills, and the ability to work inclusively.

  • Work environment and culture

    The center values diversity, inclusion, and collaboration within a fast-paced academic environment focused on public education leadership.

  • Company information

    Columbia University is a prestigious institution with a Center for Public Research and Leadership that partners with professional schools to prepare graduate students for leadership roles in public education and social sectors.

  • Job location and travel

    The position is located in New York City at Columbia University.

  • Unique job features

    The role uniquely combines strategic financial management, academic administration, and operational leadership within a multidisciplinary educational center focused on public and social sector transformation.

Company overview

Columbia University is a prestigious Ivy League institution located in New York City, known for its rigorous academic programs, pioneering research, and influential alumni. Established in 1754, it is one of the oldest universities in the United States and offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees across various disciplines. The university generates revenue through tuition fees, research grants, endowments, and donations. Notable historical milestones include the founding of its renowned journalism school and the development of the Manhattan Project during World War II.

How to land this job

  • Tailor your resume to emphasize your experience in financial management, grant accounting, and strategic planning, highlighting your ability to handle scalable and secure financial operations as outlined in the job description.

  • Showcase your skills in vendor and partner management, including contract preparation, invoicing, and collaboration with multiple departments to demonstrate your operational expertise.

  • Highlight your experience supporting student administration and academic partnerships, particularly managing enrollment, scholarship funds, and fiscal transactions between institutions.

  • Emphasize your human resources experience, especially in recruitment, onboarding, and liaising with HR departments, as well as your ability to analyze staffing data for informed decision-making.

  • Apply through Columbia University's official careers page, LinkedIn, and any other job boards listing this position to maximize your application reach and visibility.

  • Connect with current employees in the Center for Public Research and Leadership or related administrative divisions on LinkedIn; use ice breakers like commenting on recent CPRL projects, expressing enthusiasm for their mission to improve public education, or asking about the team culture and priorities.

  • Optimize your resume for ATS by including keywords such as 'financial management,' 'grant reporting,' 'vendor management,' 'student support,' 'human resources,' and 'strategic operations' to ensure your application passes initial automated screenings.

  • Consider using Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailored applications, find the best platforms to apply through, and identify key LinkedIn contacts to network with, saving you time and increasing your chances at Columbia University.

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