"Chief of Staff"

Rice’s Chief of Staff (COS) will serve as a strategic advisor to the President and work to advance his goals through coordinating the President’s team, supporting presidential committees, and overseeing the operational and financial affairs of the Office of the President. As a trusted advisor and strategic partner, the COS plays a critical role in shaping and advancing Rice’s strategic plan, Momentous: Personalized Scale for Global Impact. The COS is instrumental in facilitating the President’s agenda by coordinating key initiatives, ensuring alignment across the university, and driving progress on institutional priorities. The role requires superb communication skills and the ability to serve as a key liaison between the President and a wide range of stakeholders—including trustees, faculty, staff, students, alumni, government officials, industry leaders, and community leaders—ensuring the President’s vision is conveyed effectively and organizational alignment is maintained.

The Chief of Staff (COS) reports directly to the President of Rice University, serving as the President’s primary support and supervising staff within the Office of the President. The COS must bring a strong understanding and appreciation for Rice’s distinctive residential college system and liberal arts foundation, while navigating the complexity of a top-tier research university. Operating with the highest levels of discretion, integrity, and judgment, the COS will manage sensitive issues in a dynamic environment.

The COS also will focus on strengthening organizational efficiency, enhancing communication, managing crises, and ensuring the successful execution of Rice’s strategic priorities. In addition, the COS will lead and manage staff within the Office of the President to support long-term goals and ensure seamless daily operations.

An advanced degree is strongly preferred, and a minimum of 10 years of experience advising or supporting senior executives in large complex organizations (i.e., president, chief executive officer, provost, dean). Experience working in higher education is preferred, although not required

Rice University is being assisted in this process by Spencer Stuart and welcomes nominations or expressions of interest. If you wish to submit your application materials or nominate someone to serve as Chief of Staff to the president of Rice University, please send an email message with supporting materials to: RiceCoS@SpencerStuart.com.