Director of Presidential Operations

Muskingum University invites applications for the position of Director of Presidential Operations. This position ensures that the President’s Office operates efficiently, strategically, and in alignment with institutional priorities. The Director manages the daily operations of the President’s Office while supporting the execution of major institutional initiatives. The role combines executive-level administrative support with operational coordination and project management. The role will work closely with the President and the senior leadership team to ensure progress on priorities and that key initiatives remain organized, coordinated, and on schedule.

The University anticipates that the successful candidate will start during Dr. Susan Hasseler’s presidency to gain familiarity with University policies, procedures, and systems and will strongly support the transition of office operations to the incoming president, Dr. Flavius Lilly.

Muskingum offers a full benefits package, which includes, but is not limited to, immediate access to tuition remission or exchange for employees who are eligible and a generous paid time off package. More information about benefits is available on the Human Resources webpage.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Executive Operations

Serve as the primary administrative partner to the President, ensuring the effective functioning of the President’s Office.

• Manage the President’s calendar, scheduling priorities, and daily workflow.
• Coordinate travel, events, speaking engagements, and functions of the President.
• Prepare briefing materials and background information for meetings and engagements.
• Manage incoming correspondence and ensuring effective communication flow.
• Manage finances including reimbursements, requisitions, and documentation.
• Coordinate logistics for presidential events and functions at the President’s residence.
• Coordinate with Marketing and Communications on presidential communications.
• Serve as the point of contact for those seeking engagement with the President.
• Ensure that the President’s time and attention are aligned with institutional priorities.

Strategic Project Management

Support the President in advancing institutional priorities by helping track progress on major initiatives and coordinating follow-up actions.

• Serve as project manager for presidential initiatives and campus strategic projects.
• Track senior leadership initiatives, decisions, and follow-up actions.
• Maintain systems that monitor progress on institutional initiatives and priorities.
• Follow up with senior leaders to ensure commitments and deadlines are met.
• Prepare summaries and updates for the President regarding the status of projects.
• Coordinate initiatives requiring collaboration across divisions or departments.

Senior Leadership Team Coordination

Support the effective functioning of the President’s senior leadership team.

• Coordinate scheduling and logistics for senior leadership meetings.
• Document key decisions and tracking follow-up actions from leadership meetings.
• Maintain systems that track responsibilities assigned to leadership team members.
• Facilitate communication and coordination across divisions.
• Support the President in maintaining accountability and momentum around priorities.

Board of Trustees Support

Provide administrative and coordination support for work with the Board of Trustees.

• Coordinate communication between the President and the Board of Trustees.
• Coordinate logistics for Board meetings, retreats, and committee meetings.
• Manage preparation, organization, and distribution of Board materials.
• Coordinate schedules, logistics, and communications related to Board engagement.
• Maintain professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality in all Board interactions.
• Maintain organized records of Board materials and communications.

These statements reflect the general duties and responsibilities necessary to describe the major functions of the position and should not be considered a complete description of the essential functions of the position. These tasks are not intended to be all inclusive. The employee will be assigned by the immediate supervisor to perform other duties as needed or to perform other related duties, including special projects.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience providing executive support.
• Experience coordinating complex projects or initiatives involving multiple stakeholders.
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple complex priorities simultaneously.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated professionalism, judgment, and discretion when handling confidential information.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Advanced degree.
• Experience working in higher education or similar mission-driven institutions.
• Experience supporting board governance processes or senior advisory groups.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT

• Limited physical effort required, including standing and lifting of files or boxes.
• No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
• Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
• Duties may require occasional evening and weekend availability on campus and require ability to respond to urgent situations by phone or email in the evenings and weekends.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications must include a statement of interest and current resume. If not provided, references may be requested. Application materials should be sent by email to careers@muskingum.edu or faxed to 740-826-6131. Please include the position title in the subject line of your correspondence. This position will remain available until filled, with review of applications to begin on April 6, 2026.

Muskingum University actively seeks out and welcomes administrators and staff who are committed to excellence in student learning, consider the engagement of diverse viewpoints in the University’s educational programs and activities, and are committed to full inclusivity at the University. Muskingum University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all individuals.

Muskingum University does not discriminate in its employment or educational programs or activities. Please visit https://www.muskingum.edu/non-discrimination-statement to review the university’s official non-discrimination statement.