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Special Assistant & Project Manager

Northeastern University

Northeastern University

Operations
Bowling Green, OH, USA
Posted on Monday, December 25, 2023

About the Opportunity

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

JOB SUMMARY

Provides executive-level support and project management services to one or more senior leaders or executives. Assignments involve work of a confidential or complex nature, requiring discretion, judgment, tact and diplomacy. Gathers, assembles and analyzes information and data from a wide variety of sources. Performs a broad range of project management duties involving confidential information, such as compiling reports, furnishing information, scheduling meetings and preparing agendas. May also supervises administrative staff and direct the activities of student workers.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Highly effective skills in the following areas: project management; written / communication / interpersonal skills (to explain and clarify complex information); attention to detail; and critical thinking. Ability to influence others to reach agreement. Ability to create and manage effective office systems and to prioritize tasks and demands. Proficiency in MS Office Suite (including Excel), utilization of the Web, presentation and spreadsheet development, and database management. Other attributes include professional discretion; sound judgement; and calmness under pressure.

Knowledge and skills required for this position are normally acquired through completion of a bachelor's degree plus at least 2 to 4 years’ experience. Experience in the non-profit/education sector is a bonus as is an interest in increasing the access and success of first-generation college students, particularly those who start their education journey in community colleges. And if no direct experience in this area, the ideal candidate has a willingness to read and learn about the special challenges facing this population.

This is a hybrid in-person/remote position, with an expectation of being in person 2-3 days a week in Boston at the Northeastern University campus.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACCOUNTABILITIES

1) Project Management

Manage special projects and assignments to include triaging project challenges and escalating barriers. Understands and is sensitive to group dynamics and political nature of special projects undertakings. In support of special projects, conducts research and compiles data, identifies specific tasks, tracks and reports progress against project plan. Provides support for the strategic planning process and goal setting, advances and monitors progress on the organization’s initiatives. Identify complimenting projects and advises organization on potential efficiencies. Prepares draft communications and special messaging as required, proofreads documents, and coordinates the production of various reports to achieve the maximum impact in reaching the intended audiences.

2) Executive Level Support

Manages, coordinates and facilitates many demands for the leader’s time by prioritizing requests and using independent judgment to identify and resolve potential conflicts. Uses diplomacy to respond quickly and efficiently to schedule changes. Anticipate needs by independently soliciting and providing necessary back-up and research materials in a timely way to ensure leader is well-prepared for all meetings, events, and speaking engagements. Makes travel arrangements for the team, including complex international travel, prepares itinerary and event information, and tracks and completes all expense reports in a timely manner. Coordinates events, receptions, and staff retreats.

Position Type

General Administration

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.

Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.

Northeastern University is an equal opportunity employer, seeking to recruit and support a broadly diverse community of faculty and staff. Northeastern values and celebrates diversity in all its forms and strives to foster an inclusive culture built on respect that affirms inter-group relations and builds cohesion.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

To learn more about Northeastern University’s commitment and support of diversity and inclusion, please see www.northeastern.edu/diversity.