Senior Director for Strategic Initiatives

The Senior Director for Strategic Initiatives is a critical member of the Vice President for Equity and Diversity's team who works collaboratively to drive, facilitate and support strategic projects, directives and initiatives. The SI Director provides strategic advice and counsel, possesses a high level of integrity, and demonstrates discretion in sensitive and confidential matters. This position reports directly to the Vice President and works in partnership with the Deputy to the Vice President and other unit senior leaders. In addition, the SI Director provides systemwide consultation for DIJE strategic planning and capacity building. By working directly with the Vice President and other members of OED's senior leadership team and constituents, the SI Director strives to advance the priorities of the Office for Equity and Diversity (OED) and the mission of the University of Minnesota.

This is a 100%, 12-months annually renewable appointment in the academic and administrative personnel series (job code 9341D1, Administrative Director 1).

Primary Responsibilities

Strategic Advisor and Counsel to the Vice President, and OED Leadership (60%):

• Strategic Support: The Strategic Initiatives Director supports the Vice President and Deputy Vice President to advance the mission and vision of the Office for Equity and Diversity and the University of Minnesota
• Advisory Role: Provides support and advice to the Vice President and the OED senior leadership team (SLT) to drive DIJE strategy and capacity building efforts.
• Communications Role: Serves as a liaison with University Relations on internal and external matters relating to outreach and strategic communication with a multimedia approach that resonates with audiences across difference. Draft strategic presentations, speeches, and other communications to internal and external stakeholders, including the Board of Regents.
• Policy Development: Assists in the development and implementation of policies, procedures, and practices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the university community.
• Confidential Matters: Handles sensitive and confidential matters with discretion and professionalism, ensuring compliance with university policies and applicable laws. As part of this facet of the work, the individual in this position will lead the Bias Response and Referral Network (BRRN), (including leading program administration and providing oversight of the BRRN Staff Leads) and provide consultation to the Office for Conflict Resolution as needed.
• Performance Metrics: Develops and monitors key performance indicators to measure the effectiveness of strategic initiatives and programs.

Strategic Leadership for the University of Minnesota System (40%):

• Liaison Role: Identifies, coordinates, and maintains strategic liaison relationships throughout the University of Minnesota system\
• Consultation Support: Assists university leaders, faculty, and staff with DIJE strategic planning and action
• Capacity Building: Leads initiatives aimed at building capacity for diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts across the university system.
• Collaboration: Fosters collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders to advance the university's DIJE goals and objectives.
• Program Development: Develops and implements programs and initiatives that support the university's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Qualifications

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• BA/BS degree
• Minimum of 12 years of experience in strategic administrative positions demonstrating effective leadership skills and excellent organizational and managerial abilities
• Ability to communicate effectively, succinctly, and persuasively in writing, orally and interpersonally
• Demonstrated commitment and contribution to fostering and advancing diversity and inclusiveness

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• A relevant advanced degree
• Knowledge of and experience with University of Minnesota policies, systems, and procedures, and a working understanding of different levels of the University governance system

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Demonstrated leadership ability and success in building a team, including working with and through others to accomplish goals Demonstrated leadership ability and success in building a team, including working with and through others to accomplish goals
• Ability to manage and maintain sensitive and confidential information
• Knowledge of strategic management concepts, business practices, and principles
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with a demonstrated record of establishing effective working relationships with diverse populations and functions, both internal and external to the University
• Ability to coordinate multiple tasks, work efficiently, and meet deadlines

About the Department

The Office for Equity and Diversity (OED) works with campuses, colleges, units, and departments systemwide to create an inclusive environment where all members of the University of Minnesota community can thrive. OED is comprised of seven offices and seven major initiatives that provide critical services and support to students, faculty, and staff.

Visit our website for more information: https://diversity.umn.edu/

Benefits

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and MUST attach the following:

• a cover letter
• resume
• list of three professional references with their contact information

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail [redacted] or call ([redacted].

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About the U of M

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).