Chief of Staff
Apply NowCompany: University of Minnesota
Location: Saint Paul, MN 55111
Description:
RAR Chief of Staff
Department: Research Animal Resources Mpls
Job Description
RAR Chief of Staff
Job Family: Administration-General
Full/Part Time: Full-Time, Regular
Job Code: 9341A3
Employee Class: Acad Prof and Admin
About the Job
Position Summary:
Research Animal Resources (RAR) strives to advance scientific progress and promote the humane treatment of animals, in partnership with the University of Minnesota's research community, by providing exemplary service & education in animal care, procurement, health and well-being.
The Chief of Staff for RAR is a full time Professional/Administrative position reporting to the Executive Director of RAR and is responsible for promoting the mission by providing programmatic support to the department. This individual will have authority to make business-related decisions in consultation and as delegated by the Executive Director.
Anticipated salary is $120,000+ DOQ.
Essential Functions:
1. Leadership and Strategic Plan Management (60%)
Serve as a strategic advisor, change ambassador, and support to the RAR Executive Director
Manage bi-directional flow of communication in and out of the Executive Director's office
Facilitate the cross-team collaboration throughout the department at the manager and senior leader level. Work with directors and managers to develop effective cross-team operations.
Collaborate with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) to create, implement and manage RAR operational and strategic work plan
Lead project teams to achieve unit-wide strategic priorities
Assist SLT with integrating work plan into goals and performance appraisals
Work with the RAR's Executive Director and SLT to identify key performance indicators for success, and develop processes and metrics for evaluating progress
Promote leadership vision and values
Promote strong employee engagement practices and a positive work environment that supports consistency and excellence
Recommend priorities and strategic initiatives to ensure efficiency and effectiveness of the department and maintain a climate that attracts, develops, and retains top quality employees at all levels
Plan and coordinate meetings as requested by the Executive Director
Manage high priority projects designed to achieve the department's mission and strategic vision
Assist and advise on budgetary and financial evaluations as they relate to the departmental goals and workplan
Lead after action reviews and root cause analyses to identify and solve underlying process or system issues
Oversee the RAR committee structure, ensuring appropriate representation, upkeep of charters and appropriate leadership oversight.
2. Relationship Building and Stakeholder Management (30%)
Build and nurture trust-based relationships to serve as a point of contact for key stakeholders to resolve complex issues and help move forward strategic priorities
Serve on committees and attend meetings as requested by the RAR Executive Director to share information and advocate for the department.
Communicate information to all stakeholders concerning business-related decisions to promote transparency and inclusivity between RAR and the wider research community
Oversee timely preparation of materials and communications as requested.
3. Policy, Process, and Project Management (10%)
Uphold compliance with regulations, laws, and institutional policies and procedures
Provide leadership, approval, and project management for process improvements
Ensure RAR's Continuity of Operations (COOP) is up to date and all necessary training occurs annually
Ensure that projects and policies are implemented in a timely manner
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree and 10 years of relevant experience including 6 years supervisory
Proven experience leading a team through crisis
Ability to effectively interface at all organizational levels
Ability to demonstrate critical thinking skills
Experience in strategy development, designing compelling presentations and reports, and in handling highly confidential information
Exceptional communication (verbal and written) and leadership skills
Strong technical skills, including proficiency with standard computer systems (e.g. Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Preferred Qualifications:
Advanced degree in business (MBA) or related field
Project Management Professional (PMP) training and certification
Six Sigma or equivalent process improvement training
5+ years of leadership experience
5+ years of internal experience with the University of Minnesota
Ability to embrace and manage change during periods of growth and expansion
About the Department
Research Animal Resources (RAR) is under the Office of the Vice President for Research. RAR's primary focus is on the service and support of the animal care and use program at the U of MN. Laboratory Animal Medicine Veterinarians are part of a staff of over 150 employees including Academic and Professional Staff, Civil Service, Union Represented and Student Employees. RAR has a daily census of more than 24,000 rodent cages plus other species in 19 buildings split into 7 geographic teams between the Minneapolis and St. Paul Campus.
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:
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 attach a cover letter and resume.
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).
Department: Research Animal Resources Mpls
Job Description
RAR Chief of Staff
Job Family: Administration-General
Full/Part Time: Full-Time, Regular
Job Code: 9341A3
Employee Class: Acad Prof and Admin
About the Job
Position Summary:
Research Animal Resources (RAR) strives to advance scientific progress and promote the humane treatment of animals, in partnership with the University of Minnesota's research community, by providing exemplary service & education in animal care, procurement, health and well-being.
The Chief of Staff for RAR is a full time Professional/Administrative position reporting to the Executive Director of RAR and is responsible for promoting the mission by providing programmatic support to the department. This individual will have authority to make business-related decisions in consultation and as delegated by the Executive Director.
Anticipated salary is $120,000+ DOQ.
Essential Functions:
1. Leadership and Strategic Plan Management (60%)
Serve as a strategic advisor, change ambassador, and support to the RAR Executive Director
Manage bi-directional flow of communication in and out of the Executive Director's office
Facilitate the cross-team collaboration throughout the department at the manager and senior leader level. Work with directors and managers to develop effective cross-team operations.
Collaborate with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) to create, implement and manage RAR operational and strategic work plan
Lead project teams to achieve unit-wide strategic priorities
Assist SLT with integrating work plan into goals and performance appraisals
Work with the RAR's Executive Director and SLT to identify key performance indicators for success, and develop processes and metrics for evaluating progress
Promote leadership vision and values
Promote strong employee engagement practices and a positive work environment that supports consistency and excellence
Recommend priorities and strategic initiatives to ensure efficiency and effectiveness of the department and maintain a climate that attracts, develops, and retains top quality employees at all levels
Plan and coordinate meetings as requested by the Executive Director
Manage high priority projects designed to achieve the department's mission and strategic vision
Assist and advise on budgetary and financial evaluations as they relate to the departmental goals and workplan
Lead after action reviews and root cause analyses to identify and solve underlying process or system issues
Oversee the RAR committee structure, ensuring appropriate representation, upkeep of charters and appropriate leadership oversight.
2. Relationship Building and Stakeholder Management (30%)
Build and nurture trust-based relationships to serve as a point of contact for key stakeholders to resolve complex issues and help move forward strategic priorities
Serve on committees and attend meetings as requested by the RAR Executive Director to share information and advocate for the department.
Communicate information to all stakeholders concerning business-related decisions to promote transparency and inclusivity between RAR and the wider research community
Oversee timely preparation of materials and communications as requested.
3. Policy, Process, and Project Management (10%)
Uphold compliance with regulations, laws, and institutional policies and procedures
Provide leadership, approval, and project management for process improvements
Ensure RAR's Continuity of Operations (COOP) is up to date and all necessary training occurs annually
Ensure that projects and policies are implemented in a timely manner
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree and 10 years of relevant experience including 6 years supervisory
Proven experience leading a team through crisis
Ability to effectively interface at all organizational levels
Ability to demonstrate critical thinking skills
Experience in strategy development, designing compelling presentations and reports, and in handling highly confidential information
Exceptional communication (verbal and written) and leadership skills
Strong technical skills, including proficiency with standard computer systems (e.g. Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Preferred Qualifications:
Advanced degree in business (MBA) or related field
Project Management Professional (PMP) training and certification
Six Sigma or equivalent process improvement training
5+ years of leadership experience
5+ years of internal experience with the University of Minnesota
Ability to embrace and manage change during periods of growth and expansion
About the Department
Research Animal Resources (RAR) is under the Office of the Vice President for Research. RAR's primary focus is on the service and support of the animal care and use program at the U of MN. Laboratory Animal Medicine Veterinarians are part of a staff of over 150 employees including Academic and Professional Staff, Civil Service, Union Represented and Student Employees. RAR has a daily census of more than 24,000 rodent cages plus other species in 19 buildings split into 7 geographic teams between the Minneapolis and St. Paul Campus.
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 attach a cover letter and resume.
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).