Chief Of Staff

PRIMARY JOB FUNCTION SUMMARY:

The University's Chief of Staff provides support and strategic, consultative direction to the President. Facilitates the ability of the President to manage executive functions by assisting the President in prioritizing work schedules and coordinating projects and Initiatives. The COS serves as a senior adviser to the University President and reports directly to the President on a variety of initiatives, administrative responsibilities and special projects that contribute to the forward momentum of the institution. The COS also acts as a spokesperson in the absence of the President and also manages executive, crisis and emergency communications for the President's Office and the University. The COS serves as a liaison between the President and key groups to advance strategic and effective decision-making.

The position will frequently require attendance at evening and weekend meetings and events.

ORGANIZATIONAL CHART:

Position reports to the President. The position supervises the Executive Assistant to the President and Office Administrator.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Oversees the management of strategic initiatives out of the Office of the President that ensure the achievement of strategic planning goals and other endeavors. Works with members of the University Community across all programs, units and colleges to ensure the advancement of the strategic plan.
• Ensures that senior administration is aware of a public relations and communication importance.
• Promotes a positive image of the University and may represent the University in local or state activities.
• Plans and directs administrative, financial, and operational activities of the Office of the President.
• Oversees scheduling of the President's calendar.
• Participates in key meetings as needed with faculty, members of the administration, partners, governmental agency and media as needed and delegated.
• Facilitates strong relationships with key internal constituents and the President, and serves as a resource to the President when resolving complex issues and matters with those constituents.
• As assigned by the President, participates in all aspects of the   administration of the University, and promotes and engages in the spirit of shared governance.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum of 10 or more years of experience working in complex organizations with a preference for experience In Institutions of higher education
• Minimum of 10 or more years of experience with public affairs, external relations and strategic communications
• Minimum of 10 years working with executive-level leaders in progressively responsible positions
• Master's degree in Business Administration, Communications or related field
• Experience with communications strategy and planning with an emphasis on public relations and internal communications
• Knowledge of state legislative and budget development process
• Strong organizational and analytical skills
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
• Working knowledge of campus and organization reporting structures, as well as an understanding of the interactive roles of administration, faculty, staff and students throughout the University.

About Northeastern Illinois University:

Founded in 1867, Northeastern Illinois University enrolls about 7,200 students through the College of Arts and Sciences, the Daniel L. Goodwin College of Education, the College of Business and Technology and the College of Graduate Studies and Research. Northeastern is regarded as the most diverse public comprehensive university in the Midwest and is designated by the U.S. Department of Education as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and Minority-Serving Institution. Northeastern offers more than 40 undergraduate degree and certificate programs and more than 50 graduate degree, certificate, licensure and endorsement programs.

Northeastern’s Main Campus is located on 67 acres in a residential area on the Northwest Side of Chicago with additional locations in the metropolitan area: the Jacob H. Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies and El Centro. Northeastern also is a founding member of the University Center of Lake County consortium campus in suburban Lake County, north of Chicago

Salary and Benefits:
Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision benefits, sick and vacation days, and participation in the State Universities Retirement System. This is a full-time, continuing position.

(Each position requires a background check.)

To Apply:
In order to be considered for the Chief of Staff position by Northeastern Illinois University, you must submit the following online forms (see link below) and send the remaining documents within one PDF document to   ChiefOfStaffSearch@neiu.edu. 

• A letter of interest addressing your qualifications for this position
• Current Curriculum Vitae
• Three (3) professional references
• Employment Application
• Statement of Annuitant Status
• Affirmative Action Form

Copies of unofficial transcripts are accepted; however, official transcripts for all earned degrees will be required of candidates selected for final interviews.

Review of applications begins immediately and continues until the position is filled.

Northeastern Illinois University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and invites applications from women, minorities, veterans and persons with disabilities, as well as other qualified individuals. Northeastern Illinois University’s positions are contingent upon the University’s receipt of its State of Illinois appropriations.