Strategic Planning Senior Analyst

Strategic Planning Senior Analyst

The Strategic Planning Senior Analyst provides leadership for programmatic support, business operations, and strategic coordination for Foods for Health, a campus-wide research initiative. The position aligns operations with institutional and strategic priorities by developing and implementing tools, processes, and metrics that support programs, operations, and decision-making. The role partners with the Enterprise for Research, Innovation and Knowledge (ERIK) to manage human resources, financial planning and forecasting, facilities, systems, and compliance activities.

The Strategic Planning Senior Analyst leads programmatic development and execution of Foods for Health activities while managing day-to-day operational functions, including budgeting, reporting, data analysis, project management, and administrative oversight, while developing and advancing strategic initiatives and programs across the university, including leading complex, cross-functional projects from conception through execution. The position manages internal and external stakeholder relationships, and advisory board activities; oversees key events and internal funding programs; and tracks outcomes and return on investment to demonstrate impact. The role also supports communications efforts, represents leadership as delegated, and supervises staff and workflows to ensure efficient, effective operations that advance Foods for Health's mission and long-term sustainability.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree required in business administration, science, or a related field.
• Four years of progressively responsible experience in program management, business operations, or research administration in an academic or similarly complex environment.
• Demonstrated experience supporting or leading business operations, including process improvement, reporting, and coordination across multiple functional areas.
• Proven ability to manage stakeholder communications and engagement, including translating complex information into clear, actionable insights for senior leadership and diverse audiences.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including experience using data to inform decision-making, track performance metrics, and evaluating outcomes.
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage multiple projects and priorities in a progressively responsible capacity, with strong organizational and project management skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and facilitate collaboration across internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience planning and executing events such as workshops, seminars, conferences, or stakeholder meetings.
• Experience managing communications tools and platforms (e.g., newsletters, listservs, web content, or social media) to support programmatic communication efforts.
• Experience supervising staff or coordinating workflows and team activities.

Desired Qualifications:

• Five or more years of progressively responsible experience in program management, business operations, or research administration preferred.
• Master's or doctoral degree preferred.
• Experience working in a large, complex, or matrixed organization, such as a research university, academic health center, or interdisciplinary research institute.
• Demonstrated experience developing and implementing strategic plans, performance metrics, and program evaluation frameworks.
• Experience supporting interdisciplinary research initiatives or centers, including familiarity with research development processes, funding landscapes, and pre- and post-award or internal seed grant programs.
• Experience engaging with executive leadership, advisory boards, or external partners.
• Experience developing and leading strategic communications plans across multiple channels to support program goals and stakeholder engagement.

Application Materials:

• A resume is required to be submitted at the time of application to be considered for this position.
• A cover letter is strongly desired.

Additional Information:

Salary: The salary range for this position is $70,800 - $91,950. The offer for this position will fall within this range based on the selected candidate's education and experience, peer equity, and the unit's available budget.

Work Location: This is a hybrid position, working at least 3 days per week in-office on Ohio State's main campus.

Starting Day One: Comprehensive Benefits

• Medical, dental and vision coverage, with Ohio State paying a significant portion of the cost.
• Paid time off, including sick and vacation time and 11 holidays.
• State retirement plan or an alternative retirement plan, both with generous employer contributions.

Position Mapping:

• Function: Business Planning and Operations
• Sub-function: Business Operations
• Career Band and Level: S3

Location: Energy Advancement and Innovation Center (1044)

Position Type: Regular

Scheduled Hours: 40

Shift: First Shift