Assistant Vice Chancellor and Chief of Staff (On-site)

$130,000 - $160,000/Yr

University of California - Merced, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Merced, CA

5,001-10,000 employees

Educational Services

About the position

The Assistant Vice Chancellor & Chief of Staff at the University of California, Merced, plays a pivotal role in supporting the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Engagement. This position is designed for a strategic leader who will serve as a senior aide and advisor, focusing on matters of strategic planning, resource allocation, personnel management, and policy development. The AVC & Chief of Staff is responsible for continuous improvement across these areas, ensuring that the division operates efficiently and effectively in alignment with the university's goals. In this capacity, the AVC & Chief of Staff will liaise with key campus partners, including Planning & Budget, Human Resources, Risk Services, and others, to coordinate efforts across more than 20 distinct units that collectively employ over 300 staff members and manage an operational budget exceeding $50 million. The role requires a high level of discretion and the ability to make decisions on behalf of the Vice Chancellor in their absence, particularly concerning budgetary and personnel matters. The AVC & Chief of Staff will also oversee the coordination of the Vice Chancellor's daily agenda, manage correspondence, and ensure that inquiries directed to the Vice Chancellor are assessed and addressed appropriately. This position is integral to the Student Affairs Senior Leadership team and will involve participation in a monthly on-call rotation. The successful candidate will be expected to provide administrative leadership on various initiatives that promote student success, including the design and management of programs and events. Additionally, the AVC & Chief of Staff will conduct risk assessments and collaborate with campus stakeholders to maintain appropriate controls and mitigate risks at both the divisional and unit levels.

Responsibilities

• Consult with senior leaders and departmental directors on strategic matters impacting the Division, analyzing and summarizing key items for recommendations to the Vice Chancellor.
• Oversee operational, administrative, and personnel policies and procedures within the Division, including recruitment, retention, and performance management.
• Coordinate items referred to the Vice Chancellor's Office, ensuring timely and efficient responses.
• Represent the Vice Chancellor on institutional committees and hold delegated signature authority in their absence.
• Provide administrative leadership on initiatives integral to student success, coordinating divisional events and activities.
• Conduct risk assessment and mitigation analyses, collaborating with key campus stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a related area from an accredited institution (required).
• Advanced degree such as a Master's, PhD, or EdD in higher education or a related field (preferred).
• A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in higher education or a similarly complex organization (required).
• Advanced knowledge of organizational processes, protocols, and procedures.
• Advanced skills in short- and long-range planning, program and project management, facilitation, and collaboration.
• Sound strategic thinking and consulting skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in budget management and financial analysis.
• Familiarity with higher education policies and procedures.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Retirement savings plan with 401k options.
• Tuition reimbursement for further education.
• Paid holidays and vacation time.
• Professional development opportunities.