Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

Executive Director of Strategy and Project Management

St. Ambrose University and its Mount Mercy campus is seeking an Executive Director of Strategy and Project Management who is a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for driving and coordinating institutional integration between St. Ambrose University (SAU) and Mount Mercy University (MMU), while also guiding the development and execution of strategic planning efforts across a growing Catholic higher education network. The individual ensures timely progress on integration goals, fosters cross-campus alignment, and supports the design and implementation of shared systems, policies, and practices that advance mission, efficiency, and long-term sustainability.

The executive director leads cross-functional integration teams in both academic and operational areas and oversees the infrastructure necessary to manage strategic priorities and change management across the enterprise.

Key Responsibilities:

Integration Strategy & Leadership

• Lead a coordinated, mission-aligned integration process between SAU and MMU, and facilitate future integration efforts with other network institutions.
• Develop, monitor, and adapt integration roadmaps, ensuring projects remain on scope, on budget, and aligned with institutional priorities.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to the president and executive team on matters related to organizational alignment and planning.

Strategic Planning & Implementation

• Design and support multi-year strategic planning processes that reflect the evolving identity and mission of the combined institution(s).
• Facilitate cross-campus collaboration to prioritize goals, establish key performance indicators, and ensure accountability for progress.
• Provide regular reporting and data visualization tools to track outcomes and guide decision-making.

Project & Team Management

• Lead cross-institutional working groups, task forces, and implementation teams charged with delivering on integration and strategic priorities.
• Utilize project management software to coordinate workflows, timelines, communications, and documentation across units and campuses.
• Cultivate a culture of transparency, teamwork, and solution-focused execution.

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication

• Ensure internal and external stakeholders are informed, engaged, and aligned through regular updates, briefings, and collaborative forums.
• Partner with marketing and communications to ensure updates are provided on a routine basis to all constituent groups.
• Partner with faculty and staff leaders to address concerns, ensure inclusive decision-making, and foster ownership of institutional direction.

Systems & Operational Alignment

• Collaborate with academic affairs, student success, finance, operations, and human resources to align key processes and systems.
• Identify opportunities for shared services, technology integration, and continuous improvement across campuses.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Master's degree in higher education administration, business, organizational leadership, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive leadership experience in higher education or complex organizational settings.
• Proven success in strategic planning, institutional integration, or enterprise-level project management.
• Proficiency in project management tools
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Familiarity with Catholic higher education mission and values.
• Experience with accreditation processes, academic program review, or shared governance structures.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and retirement plans.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Tuition Remission.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Access to campus amenities, cultural events, and recreational facilities.

At St. Ambrose University, Mount Mercy campus we are more than an institution of higher learning; we are a beacon for those seeking to impact the world significantly. Guided by our foundation beliefs and values, our mission and vision reflect our dedication to fostering an inclusive, ethical, and dynamic learning environment

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit your resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references though our online application portal at Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. EOE

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