Associate Director of Strategic Initiatives

About UMass Amherst

The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450-acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued-and thrives, and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek breakthrough solutions to mounting environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges in our world.

Job Summary

The Associate Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Provost's Office serves as a strategic advisor and operational partner to the Provost's Leadership Team, including the Executive Deputy Provost, Senior Vice Provosts, and Vice Provosts. The role leads executive-level initiatives, manages cross-functional projects, and ensures alignment across the Provost's extensive portfolio. Operating with significant independence, the Associate Director anticipates challenges, engages stakeholders, and translates strategic goals into actionable results.

Essential Functions

Strategic Initiative Leadership

• Leads planning, execution, and evaluation of high-impact initiatives across the Provost's Office portfolio, including projects led by the Provost, Executive Deputy Provost, Senior Vice Provosts, and Vice Provosts.
• Oversees project tracking, outcome measurement, and reporting to ensure alignment with institutional and strategic goals.

Executive Advising & Decision Support

Cross-Functional Coordination & Stakeholder Engagement

Communications & Briefings

Operational Oversight & Change Management

Confidential & Sensitive Matters

Other Functions

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

Additional Details

Work Schedule

Salary Information

Salary Level 28

Exempt Hiring Ranges

Special Instructions to Applicants

Along with the application, please submit a resume and cover letter. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references. Applications will be reviewed on a continuous basis until the position is filled. Early submissions are encouraged.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.