Operations Lead

Job Summary The Operations Project Manager II plans and executes operational projects that support the strategic priorities and day-to-day operations of the Goff Strategic Leadership Institute. They gather information from stakeholders, define project objectives and deliverables, coordinate activities across functional areas, and ensure projects are completed on schedule and aligned with Institute priorities. Additionally, this role develops and improves processes, maintains operational systems and data, and supports data‑informed decision making that enables the Institute to scale its impact. The position works closely with institute staff and university partners to coordinate operations, monitor project progress, identify opportunities for continuous improvement, and communicate key issues that may impact project outcomes. As a member of a growing and entrepreneurial team, this position helps build the operational infrastructure, systems, and processes that support the Institute’s continued growth while contributing to an exceptional experience for students, faculty, partners, and other stakeholders. Responsibilities Plan, coordinate, and execute operational projects from initiation through implementation. Define project objectives, scope, deliverables, timelines, and resource needs. Coordinate project activities across multiple functional areas and stakeholders. Monitor project progress and communicate risks, challenges, and recommendations. Support implementation of new operational initiatives and continuous process improvements. Operational Systems & Process Improvement Develop, document, and improve operational processes that increase efficiency, consistency, and scalability. Create structure and standard operating procedures to support a growing organization. Manage operational workflows and administrative systems supporting institute programs. Identify opportunities to streamline processes and improve the student and stakeholder experience. Data & Analytics Maintain accurate operational and program data across institute systems. Work with university data teams to prepare reports, dashboards, and analyses to support operational and strategic decision making. Monitor data quality and ensure integrity across multiple platforms. Support assessment, reporting, and continuous improvement efforts. Student & Program Operations Coordinate program application, admissions, and related operational processes. Support program logistics and operational execution for institute initiatives. Manage shared communications, including operational email accounts and inquiries. Coordinate documentation, records, and administrative support for institute programs. Collaboration Partner with faculty, staff, and university departments to ensure successful project execution. Build collaborative relationships to support institute initiatives. Contribute ideas that strengthen operations and support the institute's long‑term growth. Minimum Qualifications Requires a bachelor’s (or equivalency) + 4 years or a master’s (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience. One year of higher education may be substituted for one year of directly related work experience. Microsoft Office Suite proficiency (particularly Excel). Preferences (Successful Candidates Will Demonstrate) Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills. Strong process improvement mindset with the ability to create structure in evolving environments. Analytical thinking and comfort working with data to inform decisions. Initiative and proactive problem solving. Ability to manage multiple priorities with minimal supervision. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Collaborative approach and commitment to excellent customer service. Curiosity, creativity, and a desire to continuously improve operations. Ability to lead through influence and take ownership regardless of formal authority. Additional Preferred Experience Salesforce and/or CRM systems, Tableau or other data visualization platforms, Canvas or learning management systems, project‑management and collaboration tools. Pay Rate Range: $50,000 - $55,000 Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM Employment Type: Full Time #J-18808-Ljbffr University of Utah