Director of Institutional Research

The Director of Institutional Research provides leadership to structure a cohesive, comprehensive system for data collection and analysis to inform academic compliance and operational imperatives. The Director is responsible for facilitating an appropriate data framework to address data collection and integrity; operational definitions for institutional data use across the University; key questions to inform decision making, contribute to goal development and evaluate outcomes. S/he provides analytical guidance and direction on academic issues and matters to collect, analyze, and synthesize multiple data points for the purpose of guiding actionable improvements across the institution.

Position Accountabilities

Institutional Research Leadership

• Oversee the vision, direction, and priorities for Institutional Research.

• Manage unit's operating budget.

• Lead comprehensive Academic and Operational Effectiveness initiatives that provide key measurables to inform a change and improvement model

• Coordinate the work of and provide supervision of the IR team, comprised of an Associate Director of Reporting & Compliance and a Research Analyst.

• Collaborate closely with colleagues in Academic Affairs and Registrar's Office on compliance matters, data quality, data sharing, and reporting.

• Provide leadership on data consistency across institutional units (e.g., Enrollment Services, Information Technology, and other offices) as needed.

Compliance and Reporting

• Provide leadership for, and collaborate with institutional partners, to compile, validate and submit data in accordance with state and federal requirements, institutional and programmatic/specialized accreditation (e.g., HLC, IPEDS, MSBE, CCNE, DESE, etc.), and other regulatory bodies (e.g., athletics, VA compliance visits, etc.). Collaborate with partners to assure that essential data and outcomes are published, as required.

• Assist with prioritization, coordination, and completion of external marketing surveys (e.g., US News & World Reports, Best for Vets, KC Business Journal, etc.) and ad hoc data requests for institutional stakeholders.

Data Governance

• Lead an institution-wide data governance strategy, including policy, standardized definitions, data accuracy, use of systems for reliable data, and accessibility of data for analysis and decision making.

• Work closely with data stewards and IT to ensure data integrity and security through policies, standards, and procedures.

Data Collection

• Collaborate with data owners to identify primary sources of institutional data (e.g., LMS, SIS, CRM, etc.).

• Facilitate data collection and reporting for identified academic initiatives supporting student success (e.g., retention, course completion, graduation rates, etc.).

• Recommend changes to data collection, maintenance and use to improve data quality and integrity.

Data Analysis

• Conduct advanced analyses to provide insights into trends, student outcomes, and key performance indicators; forecast future trends.

• Inform and maintain a comprehensive plan for data analysis and dissemination.

• Interpret results and make recommendations to serve institutional needs and strategic priorities, inform decisions, and enhance academic and operational functions.

• Utilize data to inform policy development and decision-making at all levels of the institution, and to refine benchmarks for measuring student success/outcomes.

Position Requirements:

• Master's degree with 5 years of experience, including 3 years relevant experience (institutional research, report writing, data collection and analysis, data visualization, accreditation, federal/state reporting); doctorate preferred.

• Proficient in programming and statistical analysis

• Familiarity with reporting tools

• Ability to effectively collaborate and consult with institutional leadership

• Excellent project management skills

• Strong writing and verbal communication skills

• Knowledge of higher education data systems

• Ability to interpret statistics, design surveys and perform data analysis

• Ability to inform decision making and improvement through data collection, interpretation, and analyses

Applicants must be legally authorized to work for any employer in the United States.

Founded in 1875, Park University is a private, liberal arts university. Park's flagship campus is located in the Kansas City suburb of Parkville, Missouri, on the bluffs overlooking the Missouri River. We offer an excellent benefits package including health, dental, and life insurance, retirement plan, and tuition-paid undergraduate classes for employees and dependents. Park University is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages applications from women and minorities.

Qualified applicants must upload a resume and cover letter that includes salary requirements.