Director of Institutional Research and Analyt

TITLE: Director Institutional Research and Analytics

DEPARTMENT: Institutional Research

REPORTS TO: Vice Provost for Academic Affairs

CLASSIFICATION: Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE: TBD

STANDARD WORK HOURS: 37.5 hours per week

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-Time 

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt

JOB SUMMARY:

The Director is responsible for overseeing the university’s data management and analytics functions, including data governance, institutional reporting, survey administration, and assessment support. This role involves collaborating with academic and administrative units to identify information needs, enhance data literacy, and support strategic planning through evidence-based decision-making.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Lead the design, development, and execution of data analysis processes.
• Produce comprehensive reports and dashboards for internal and external stakeholders, including accreditation bodies and state agencies.
• Ensure accuracy and timeliness of data reporting to meet regulatory and institutional requirements.

Institutional Research

• Conduct institutional research studies to support university planning, policy formulation, and decision-making.
• Design and implement methodologies for data collection and analysis related to academic programs, student outcomes, and operational performance.
• Analyze trends and present findings to senior leadership and university committees.

Data Governance and Management

• Develop and maintain data governance policies and procedures to ensure data integrity and security.
• Oversee data quality initiatives and collaborate with IT to enhance data systems.
• Manage data warehousing and ensure integration of various data sources.

Survey Administration

• Coordinate the administration and analysis of institutional surveys, including student, faculty, and alumni surveys.
• Develop survey instruments and methodologies to capture relevant data for institutional assessment.

Strategic Planning and Decision Support

• Provide data-driven insights to support the university’s strategic planning and initiatives.
• Engage with university leadership to align data analytics with strategic goals and performance metrics.
• Support grant writing and resource allocation through targeted data analysis.

Compliance and Accreditation Support

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional reporting requirements.
• Support accreditation processes by providing data and analytical reports as needed.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Analytical Skills: Proficiency in quantitative and qualitative data analysis, including statistical techniques and methodologies.
• Technical Skills: Expertise in data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) and database management systems.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex data clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.
• Project Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Collaborative: Ability to work collaboratively with academic and administrative units and foster a data-informed decision-making culture.
• Problem-Solving: Creative and strategic thinker with a focus on continuous improvement and innovative solutions.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

• Supervise a team of data analysts and institutional research staff.
• Provide leadership, training, and performance management to ensure team effectiveness and professional growth.

OTHER DUTIES:

This position will conduct other duties as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in a related field such as statistics, data science, educational research, or higher education administration.
• At least 5 years of experience in institutional research, data analytics, or a related field in a higher education setting.
• Demonstrated experience with data analysis tools and statistical software (e.g., SPSS, SAS, R).
• Strong background in data governance and institutional reporting.
• Knowledge of higher education accreditation processes and requirements.

Licensing and Certifications:

No specific licenses or certifications required, but certifications in data analytics, project management, or institutional research (e.g., AIR certification) are preferred.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• General Office Environment: Primarily seated work with occasional periods of standing and walking.
• Technology Use: Frequent use of computers, including data analysis software and reporting tools.
• Communication: Regular communication via phone, email, and in-person meetings.
• Travel: Minimal travel may be required for conferences and professional development opportunities.

KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer

The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform.