Executive Director of Auxiliary Services

Job Description

Job Description

Why This Role Matters

Harris-Stowe State University, the only HBCU in St. Louis, MO, is seeking a strategic, mission-driven leader to oversee the auxiliary operations that power campus life. This role sits at the intersection of business operations and student experience. You will shape how students dine, park, shop, and gather on campus, while driving the financial performance of revenue-generating units that support the University's broader mission. If you are a leader who thrives on building systems, managing complex operations, and making a tangible difference in student success at an HBCU, this is an exceptional opportunity to lead with impact.

Position Summary

The Executive Director of Auxiliary Services provides leadership, direction, and oversight of revenue-generating auxiliary units that support student life and academic activities. This includes campus dining, parking and transportation, bookstore services, retail operations, and capital project management. The Executive Director serves as a strategic partner to the CFO, optimizing revenue and operating margins while enhancing the student experience. This role represents HSSU in interactions with students, vendor partners, campus departments, and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Lead day-to-day operations of Auxiliary Services: campus dining, parking and transportation, bookstore, retail operations, and other units as designated by the CFO.
• Promote Auxiliary Services across the campus community, driving awareness and engagement.
• Serve as project manager for all design and construction projects, ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery.

Financial Management & Strategy

• Coordinate budget development and monitor revenue/expense activity with dashboard reporting and business planning.
• Provide robust financial analysis and recommendations to improve revenue and operating margins for existing operations and new initiatives.
• Maintain financial records in accordance with GAAP.
• Translate financial information for non-technical stakeholders through clear written and verbal communication.

Procurement & Contract Management

• Direct complex sourcing and procurement projects, negotiate binding contracts, and drive cost containment.
• Develop and refine sustainable purchasing policies in collaboration with students and faculty.
• Identify, evaluate, and recommend new revenue-generating opportunities that enhance University services.

Strategic Partnership

• Serve as a strategic advisor to the CFO and senior leadership team, mentoring staff and advocating for operational excellence.
• Build relationships across the University, navigating the complex landscape of a publicly-supported higher education institution.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Chief Financial Officer.

Minimum Qualifications

1. Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, or a related field (required).
2. 5–10 years of experience directly managing complex, high-volume operations with demonstrated successful outcomes (required).
3. Experience consulting and advising senior-level executives.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Finance, or related field.
• Experience in higher education or publicly-supported institutions.
• Knowledge of governance and administrative processes in higher education.
• Facilities management experience, including capital planning and renovations.

Core Competencies

• Strategic financial analysis and budget management
• Contract negotiation and procurement expertise
• Project management for capital construction and renovations
• Strong written and verbal communication for diverse stakeholders
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and foster collaboration
• Data-driven decision-making and problem-solving
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and organizational change
• Self-directed with strong organizational skills and deadline management

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in a typical office environment on campus.
• Some travel may be required for vendor meetings, conferences, and site visits.
• Supervisory responsibility: Yes: oversees auxiliary services staff and vendor relationships.

EOE Statement

Harris-Stowe State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.