Senior Associate Director, Operations in Executive Education

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Director of Operations, the Senior Associate Director will play a pivotal role in leading and managing a team of Assistant and Associate Directors who oversee the program management and operations of Columbia Business School's diverse Executive Education portfolio. This position is responsible for ensuring the effective execution and continued growth of Open Enrollment, Custom, Online, and Blended programs, while upholding the highest standards of quality and advancing innovative practices in Executive Education.

About Columbia Business School

For over a century, Columbia Business School has developed leaders and builders of enterprises who create value for their organizations and society. Through our MBA, MS, PhD, and Executive Education programs, CBS prepares students to lead in a rapidly changing world.

Our cutting-edge curriculum, STEM-certified programs, and immersive experiential learning opportunities equip students to thrive in areas such as digital transformation, entrepreneurship, twenty-first-century finance, the intersection of business and society, and climate and sustainability.

CBS administration enables the School's educational and scholarly mission through strategic and operational excellence. We are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and high-performing community that drives innovation and impact from the very center of business.

Responsibilities

Team Leadership & People Management

Oversees the daily operations and strategic direction of a team of Assistant and Associate Directors in the Program Management team.

Mentors and develops Assistant Directors and Associate Directors, enhancing their professional growth and ensuring cohesive team dynamics.

Conducts regular reviews of program effectiveness, using feedback from key stakeholders and other relevant metrics to drive continuous improvement.

Leads after-action reviews and adjustments to program delivery practices based on comprehensive analysis.

Program & Client Management

Manages a comprehensive portfolio of Executive Education programs as assigned by the Director of Operations. Ensure seamless execution from inception to delivery and role model best practice.

Establishes strong relationships with clients and participants and ensures Executive Education provides exceptional program experiences.

In collaboration with the Director of Operations, continues to improve and evolve the participant experience and roll out new initiatives.

Faculty & Stakeholder Relations

Builds excellent working partnerships with faculty from across disciplines and be credible as a trusted adviser to them concerning the delivery of executive education programs.

Collaborates with various internal teams, including Open Enrollment, Custom, Financial Planning, Campus Operations, University Catering, and external vendors and venues to optimize processes and program delivery.

Strategic Planning & Operational Excellence

Works closely with the Director of Operations to develop and lead the implementation of a range of strategic and operational initiatives to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the team and to better support faculty, clients, and participants.

Other

Performs related duties and special projects as needed and assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree required. 4-6+ years of related experience required.

Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills to effectively engage with stakeholders at all levels.

Detail-oriented and proven track record of taking initiative, is able to anticipate and prioritize tasks.

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and has ability to strategize, implement, and oversee program management initiatives. Is a natural collaborator and team player.

Strong leadership and team management abilities.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with virtual learning platforms.

This position may require travel and flexibility in hours, including sometimes working evenings and weekends, to meet program deadlines and requirements.

Must be based in the Greater New York area and adhere to the school and department hybrid-work policies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in educational event management / project management / client services. Knowledge of Salesforce is a plus

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.