Chief of Staff

Job Description

Job Description

Overview

Reporting directly to the President, the Chief of Staff is the behind-the-scenes leader, the crucial torch bearer who will guide Morris Brown Colleges' day-to-day rhythm in collaboration with the President. With a blend of leadership and keen problem-solving skills, this person will navigate the complexity of a college that is continuing its Resurgence.

The Chief of Staff at Morris Brown College will act as a strategic partner to the President, executive cabinet, faculty, and staff, amplifying their effectiveness by managing key initiatives, facilitating communication, and aligning organizational priorities. This person will act as a high-level operator, trusted advisor, and project manager, handling cross-functional projects and driving operational efficiency across the college. Furthermore, there will be a special focus on strengthening communication, improving operational coordination and reinforcing a culture of accountability, collaboration and performance.

The role of the Chief of Staff is to represent the interests and priorities of the Office of the President through management and integration of President's initiatives, priorities, and objectives. The job is fast-paced and highly functioning in a highly team-based and collaborative environment. The Chief of Staff will be responsible for planning and directing administrative and operational activities for the Office of the President. Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Serving as a key member of the executive cabinet, the Chief of Staff works closely with the campus community to collaborate on strategies and matters impacting Morris Brown College.
• Serve as a thought partner to the President on institutional strategy, priorities, and long-term positioning.
• Leads a variety of initiatives managed at the level of the Office of the President, working closely and in coordination with senior leadership as needed. Especially provides independent analysis and removes barriers to ensure priority initiatives and projects are executed and communicated to the campus community.
• Directs and oversees high-level projects and events initiated by the President and communicates progress to the President and executive team.
• Independently handles high level or sensitive concerns and requests on behalf of the President.
• Participates in key constituent meetings to guide strategy and policy to ensure appropriate responsive follow-up and accountability and facilitate resolution of matters requiring the President's attention.
• Works closely with the Special Assistant to the President in facilitating the President's participation at public events, including preparation of remarks and event logistics.
• Coordinate with divisions in facilitating the revision of college policies and procedures.

• Other duties as assigned.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

• Strategic Planning & Execution: Assists the President in driving college wide goals including those identified in the Strategic Plan, translates executive vision into action plans, and manages high-impact special projects.
• Operations Management: Assists President in overseeing daily operations, optimizes processes, and ensures smooth functioning across departments.
• Communication & Liaison: Serves as the primary liaison between the executive cabinet, staff, senior leaders, and stakeholders to improve internal communication and, when necessary, act on behalf of the President as requested.
• Executive Support & Efficiency: Works with Special Assistant to the President and ensures preparation for meetings, board meetings, and presentations.
• Strategic Advisor: Provides insights, researches policies, and advises on critical decisions to enhance leadership decision-making.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Experience: Proven leadership experience, often with a background in project management, operations, or consulting.
• Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build relationships across all levels of the organization; works well with people; and act as a trusted advisor.

• Strategic Thinking: Strong business acumen and problem-solving abilities to analyze complex situations; pinpoint and address core issues within business processes; steer President's strategic business initiatives from idea to realization.

• Presents to the President and other senior leaders detailed college operations analysis.

Education and Experience

• Master's degree required; doctorate preferred. Direct experience and administrative leadership of multifaceted operations involving numerous professional, student, and support personnel preferred.

Full-time 40 hours per week position minimum. Working hours will occasionally include evenings and weekends during peak periods including registration.