at University of Chicago in Chicago, Illinois, United States
Job Description
DepartmentEnergy Policy Institute at Chicago (EPIC)
About the Department
The University of Chicago Institute for Climate and Energy (CEI) is a groundbreaking effort uniting faculty from across the University to advance society's understanding of our energy and climate future. The Institute combines faculty insights in energy markets and policy, climate systems engineering, and energy technology to produce world-changing ideas while also investing in the next generation of energy and climate thinkers, leaders, and innovators through novel educational programs.
Job Summary
The Associate Director, Strategic Initiatives plays a crucial role in advancing CEI's mission and objectives. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the incumbent will be responsible for designing and executing a range of CEI programs, activities, and strategic priorities, working closely with Institute leadership as well as both internal and external partners. This role is ideal for a self-starter with 5-7 years of experience in energy and climate issues, program management, and partnership development who is looking to take the next step in their career.
This position manages academic, research, clinical or administrative programs.
Responsibilities
- Works closely with the Executive Director and other CEI leadership in designing and executing Institute strategic programs and priorities across a number of areas, including research, internal and external outreach, and operations.
- Helps lead and facilitate meetings and discussions related to energy and climate initiatives across campus.
- Working with CEI leadership, helps cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including faculty, researchers, donors, and external partners.
- Represents the institute in various forums, conferences, and events related to energy and climate.
- Helps to supervise and mentor staff members, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation.
- Manages the daily operations of an organizational unit or assists with managing the daily operations of a larger organizational unit, primarily in the areas of financial, purchasing, grant, facilities, human resources and support services management. Ensures compliance of staff with organizational, University and other relevant policies and guidelines.
- Manages all financial activities, including financial analysis and reporting, budgeting, accounting, accounts receivable/payable, and procurement. Oversees facilities management, including renovations, moves, maintenance and ongoing facilities operations. Manages development of all contracts, including those with vendors and other institutions.
- May oversee the management of informational technology planning, ensuring necessary operating and information systems and resources are in place to accomplish strategic goals. Conceives and directs special projects related to the business of the organizational unit.
- Manages space, facilities, and equipment, including renovations, moves, maintenance and ongoing facilities operations.
- Uses in-depth knowledge and experience to administer the delivery of services to program participants and/or beneficiaries such as communicating with programs sponsors and academic advising for undergraduate students.
- Develops and communicates program priorities and performance standards and assesses operations using these criteria. Plans and conducts quality assurance reviews and recommends changes as appropriate.
- Manages program budgets and recommends or makes budgetary recommendations.
- Has a deep understanding when interacting with faculty, researchers and staff for committee work or information.
- Performs other related work as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
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Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
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Certifications:
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Preferred Qualifications
Experience:
- Significant experience working with an academic institution with global presence.
- Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in energy and climate-related roles, with a focus on program management and strategic leadership.
- Background working in an academic or research institution.
- Space management and facilities planning experience.
Preferred Competencies
- Superior writing and communications skills.
- Demonstrated success in fundraising and resource development.
- Proven track record of successful project management, including planning, implementation, and evaluation.
- Experience in navigating complex organizational structures and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations.
- Strong understanding of energy and climate policies, technologies, and best practices.
Working Conditions
- Travel, including internationally.
Application Documents
- Resume/CV (required)
- Cover Letter (required)
- Three Professional References Contact Information (required)
When applying, the document(s) MUSTbe uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Administration & Management
Role Impact
Individual Contributor
FLSA Status
Exempt
Pay Frequency
Monthly
Scheduled Weekly Hours
37.5
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Drug Test Required
No
Health Screen Required
No
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
No
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at:http://securityreport.uchicago.edu.Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.
