Vice Chancellor for Strategic Initiatives

Job Summary

The Vice Chancellor for Strategic Initiatives (VCSI) is a key leader at the University of Colorado Boulder, responsible for carrying out the strategic vision of the Chancellor and Campus.

This position is a campus-wide resource, combining strategic oversight with high-level support to the Chancellor, serving as a key advisor and liaison across CU Boulder’s executive team. The VCSI will work across internal and external constituencies to advance the campus’ goals and ensure consistent success.

The person hired will help shape this position's future, provide input on its development, and take ownership of new initiatives.

The University of Colorado Boulder is committed to building a culturally diverse community of faculty, staff, and students dedicated to contributing to an inclusive campus environment. We are an Equal Opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

The University of Colorado Boulde r is a comprehensive public doctoral Research University, a member of the Association of American Universities, and classified as an R1 University. The university has nine schools and colleges offering over 150 academic programs and enrolling 35,000 degree-seeking undergraduate and graduate students.

At CU Boulder, we strive to be a leader in tackling humanitarian, social, and technological challenges. We prioritize a student-centered campus culture that promotes belonging and success for all.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

Strategic Leadership:

• In collaboration with the Chancellor and the senior executive leaders, develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan that aligns with the Chancellor's vision and goals.
• Provide counsel to and assist the Chancellor in leading the strategic direction and momentum of CU Boulder.
• Conduct strategic assessments and analysis to find opportunities and address challenges facing CU Boulder.
• Lead and support cross-functional teams to implement strategic projects, ensuring alignment with long-term objectives and institutional priorities.
• Coordinate and facilitate planning sessions, retreats, and other important meetings to further the mission.
• Collaborate across the executive leadership team to find opportunities for innovation and transformation across academic, research, and operational areas to improve the university's competitive position and impact.
• Prioritize the Chancellor's goals of promoting inclusivity and belonging among faculty, students, and staff.
• Supports the alignment of CU Boulder campus strategic priorities with the University of Colorado System Administration’s strategic planning process.

Executive Leadership and Management:

• Ensure seamless integration and coordination of central initiatives with the university's administrative and operational functions.
• Apply data analytics and insights to inform strategic decision-making processes and measure outcomes.
• Monitor and report on the progress of strategic projects, providing regular updates to the Chancellor and other collaborators.
• Facilitate the coordination of the Chancellor’s Cabinet and University leaders to align operations and special projects across the campus.
• Serve as the primary campus liaison and partner to the University of Colorado System Administration to ensure strong collaborative relationships and timely communication.

Outreach and Community Engagement:

• Establish relationships and cultivate connections within and beyond the CU Boulder community.
• Work with CU Boulder leadership and the University of Colorado Sr VP of External Relations and Strategy to develop and implement a strategy for community and government relations in Colorado.
• Provide leadership and mentorship, encouraging a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
• Represent the Chancellor in meetings, events, and negotiations, advocating for the campus’s interests and encouraging collaborative partnerships.

Communication and Reporting:

• Prepare high-quality reports, presentations, and briefs for the Chancellor and other senior leaders, ensuring clarity and strategic insight.
• Communicate central initiatives and institutional priorities to diverse audiences.

What We Can Offer

• The salary range for this position is $310,000 - $350,000. A signing bonus and relocation expenses are available for this position.

Benefits

The University of Colorado offers excellent benefits , including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit and ECO Pass. The University of Colorado Boulder is one of the largest employers in Boulder County and offers an inspiring higher education environment. Learn more about the University of Colorado Boulder .

Be Statements

Be excited. Be groundbreaking. Be Boulder.

What We Require

• A Master's or JD degree, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least 8+ years of progressively responsible, job-related management experience.
  
• Demonstrated experience in working in complex environments and managing constituent relationships.
  
• Experience in resource management, budget oversight, and financial competence.
  
• Experience across multiple units within higher education.

What You Will Need

• Proven track record of leadership in planning and implementation within higher education, preferably at a large state university.
• Demonstrated ability to foster collaboration and build consensus across diverse groups.
  
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and trends to drive decision making.
  
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with internal and external partners.
  
• Dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a track record of promoting these values in organizational initiatives.
  
• High degree of integrity, discretion, and professionalism in handling confidential information and sensitive issues.
  
• Proficiency in data analysis and performance metrics, with experience in developing and managing budgets.
  
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse audiences.
  
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to balance multiple priorities and deadlines.
  
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, with a proven ability for innovative leadership.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials:

1. A current resume.
2. A cover letter that specifically tells us how your background and experience align with the requirements, qualifications, and responsibilities of the position.

We may request references at a later time.

This position will remain posted until filled. All applications received by Tuesday, September 24 will receive full consideration.

Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs.


In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Posting Contact Information

Posting Contact Name: Boulder Campus Human Resources

Posting Contact Email: Recruiting@colorado.edu