Executive Associate

Executive Associate

The Executive Associate reports directly to the Vice Chancellor for Business and Finance and serves as the primary coordinator for the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Business & Finance, managing executive operations, strategic initiatives, divisional communications, and Board of Regents activities while ensuring alignment with institutional priorities.

Required Qualifications: Bachelor's degree with five years of progressively responsible administrative, executive support, project management, or business operations experience. Demonstrated ability to operate independently, exercise sound judgment, and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Strong organizational, project management, and problem-solving skills with the ability to coordinate complex initiatives, monitor deadlines, and facilitate successful outcomes. Excellent interpersonal, communication, writing, and editing skills, with the ability to effectively interact with university leadership, faculty, staff, governing boards, and external stakeholders. Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion when handling sensitive personnel, financial, legal, and organizational matters. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and enterprise systems, including financial, human resource, document management, and reporting platforms. Ability to conduct research, analyze information, prepare executive-level reports and presentations, and leverage technology to improve operational efficiency. Knowledge of budgeting, administrative operations, governance processes, and organizational policies. Ability to build collaborative relationships, adapt to changing priorities, and support strategic decision-making across a complex organization.

Preferred Qualifications: Seven years of progressively responsible administrative, executive support, project management, or business operations experience. Experience supporting senior executive leadership in higher education, government, healthcare, or similarly complex organizations. Experience at the University of Nebraska, specifically with SAP, SuccessFactors, etc.

The ideal candidate is a highly organized, proactive professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and demonstrates exceptional judgment, discretion, and attention to detail. They possess strong communication and relationship-building skills, are comfortable working independently, and can effectively manage multiple priorities while supporting complex organizational initiatives. The successful candidate is a collaborative problem-solver who embraces continuous improvement, leverages technology to enhance efficiency, and maintains a strong commitment to customer service and operational excellence. Experience supporting senior leaders, coordinating cross-functional projects, and navigating complex organizational environments is highly valued.

The University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) is a student-centered public university dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, scholarship, and service. As part of the University of Nebraska System, UNK provides a supportive learning environment where students are known, valued, and empowered to achieve their goals. Located in central Nebraska, UNK serves approximately 6,000 students and is recognized for its strong academic programs, commitment to student success, and meaningful engagement with communities across the state and region.