Senior Advisor & Chief of Staff

Responsibilities

• Serve as a senior advisor and confidential thought partner to the Vice President for Student Life (VPSL) on divisional priorities and sensitive matters.
• Lead the advancement of strategic initiatives and special projects from concept through implementation.
• Provide analysis, risk assessments, and recommendations to inform executive decision-making.
• Oversee the Office of the Vice President for Student Life to ensure coordinated execution of leadership actions.
• Build and sustain strong working relationships across divisional, academic, and administrative leadership to ensure institutional alignment.
• Manage divisional governance structures, including agenda shaping and decision tracking.
• Supervise professional staff and student employees within the executive office.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in higher education, student affairs, business, social sciences, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive leadership experience.
• Proven experience in Student Affairs or higher education administration.
• Demonstrated experience providing strategic and operational support to senior executives.
• Strong strategic planning, project management, and organizational effectiveness skills.
• Ability to manage staff and lead complex initiatives in a matrixed environment.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree or terminal degree in a relevant field.
• Experience working within a complex research university environment.
• Experience with university governance, accreditation, and regulatory environments.

About the Company

The University of Delaware is a leading research institution dedicated to uniting talent with opportunity. The Division of Student Life is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment that supports the holistic development and success of all students.