Assistant Director of Operations

The National Security Research Institute (NSRI) in the Research Innovation Office (RIO) at the University of Minnesota is hiring an Assistant Director of Operations who will implement and drive the vision and goals of the newly established interdisciplinary institute. As a member of the NSRI leadership team, the Assistant Director will work closely with the NSRI Executive Director in implementing strategic plans, launching programs, overseeing daily operations, budgets and contracts, and engaging with stakeholders and partners internal and external to the University. The Assistant Director will also manage additional program-based and administrative staff members as they will be hired by the NSRI for tasks related to project/proposal development, communications, engagement and outreach, event planning, research compliance, and contracts. This is a key leadership role that will help grow NSRI into a thriving interdisciplinary research hub with the mission to advance national security research and education, prepare the workforce for national security organizations, and enhance the impact of Minnesota and the University in the national security arena. This position reports to the NSRI Executive Director. Position Duties and Responsibilities NSRI Operations and Management (65%) Manage daily operations of the NSRI, including supervision, training, development and evaluation of NSRI staff members. Plan and manage contracts, agreements, budgets and finances of the NSRI. Oversee and manage NSRI programs and activities to ensure they adhere to NSRI objectives and goals and deliver status reports. Assist the NSRI Executive Director with providing reports and information to NSRI stakeholders and partners. Prepare and review presentation materials for both internal and external audiences. Lead a variety of projects and initiatives necessary to run, develop and grow the NSRI. Define, implement and maintain NSRI operational procedures, processes, rules and policies, in alignment with University standards and policies. Assist with the planning and development of NSRI events, visits, activities and programs, including proposal planning and grant submission of NSRI faculty. Assist with the management of NSRI communications and promotion (web site, social media, news releases etc.). Share information and plan team-wide communications to ensure team engagement and institute effectiveness. Strategy, Vision, and Leadership (20%) Advise the NSRI Executive Director on strategy and vision, programming, investments, and budgeting as well as new opportunities for the Institute. Oversee and implement NSRI programs and initiatives, including research grant management, and proposal and program development by NSRI members. Contribute to the identification and development of new initiatives and programs (e.g. related to research, workforce and education development or entrepreneurship and industry partnerships) that will advance the strategic goals and mission of the NSRI. Represent the NSRI externally and internally by engaging with various stakeholders and partners within and outside the University such as other educational and research organizations, private companies, business associations, foundations and federal/state government entities. Collaborate with NSRI leadership and other specialized positions to pursue emerging opportunities that are aligned with the mission and objectives of the Institute. NSRI Stakeholder Relations and Governance Facilitation (10%) Help form, organize and manage governing boards and committees. Establish and manage the yearly schedule of governance activities for the NSRI, and ensure timely completion of required activities. Plan meetings in close collaboration with NSRI leadership; prepare agenda materials; communicate pre-/post-meeting as needed with internal and external stakeholders to ensure reliable coordination and effective collaboration. Other duties as assigned by the NSRI Executive Director (5%) **This position is not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship.** Flexible Work Profile The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) and the National Security Research Institute (NSRI) endorse a "work with flexibility" approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do their best. Work location options include working fully remote, partially remote, or entirely in the office and are based on the work of the position. Some on-site work may be necessary for certain positions, even those designated as fully remote. This position was designated to be fully in the office/lab (Profile 1) or partially remote (Profile 2, with work expected to be performed in the office/lab a minimum of 3 days per week). At least initially, the incumbent will be expected to spend more time in the office/lab to ease onboarding, create connections with team members, and initiate collaborations. Work schedule will be finalized with the supervisor and will be dependent on the research program needs. Regardless of the typical work arrangement set, this role comes with the requirement to attend numerous on-campus work events and on-site meetings for collaboration and team effectiveness. Unless collaborating at a research program site, the incumbent will work from the NSRI office in Suite 450 in the McNamara Alumni Center located at 200 SE Oak Street on the Twin Cities, Minneapolis Campus. RIO management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time. Required Qualifications BA/BS degree in a relevant field with at least eight years of related experience. Experience working in an academic research setting, nonprofit research institutions or other R&D-focused environment (e.g., government, industry). Proven track‑record of working with stakeholders outside of academia. Previous experience in supporting DOD‑funded research or national security‑related work. Excellent written, oral, interpersonal and presentation skills and the ability to effectively interface with University leaders, board members, faculty members, partners and stakeholders. Demonstrated leadership skills involving being proactive, collaborative and team oriented. Excellent project management skills with a proven ability to manage tasks, time and deadlines effectively. Self‑reliant, good problem solver, results oriented, forward looking and strategic. Preferred Qualifications Candidates with similar responsibilities at a for‑profit or non‑profit organization. Experience in managing a large diverse team at a comparative organization similar to the University. Academic background in national security related areas. About the Department The National Security Research Institute (NSRI) at the University of Minnesota serves as a national hub to drive interdisciplinary partnerships on national security‑related funding opportunities. NSRI advances leading‑edge research and workforce training programs that deliver significant value for the sponsor. NSRI promotes and sustains strategic partnerships with government agencies, DoD and national labs, defense‑oriented entities, academia, and industry. Pay and Benefits Pay Range: $114,979.89 - $167,121.94 (depending on education/qualifications/experience) Time Appointment: 100% Appointment Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility. The University 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 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. Applicants must submit a letter of interest and a 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 employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647. 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). #J-18808-Ljbffr