Assistant Director ISPL

The Assistant Director serves as the primary operational lead for the Institute for Security Policy and Law (SPL). This role is responsible for advancing the Center's programs and strategic priorities through oversight of cross-unit coordination, program implementation, administrative systems, and the Center's signature academic certificate programming.

Working closely with the Director, Deputy Director, and affiliated faculty, the Assistant Director translates strategic goals into operational plans and ensures effective implementation across academic programs, events, student engagement initiatives, and external partnerships. This position functions as the central point of integration for SPL activities, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and alignment with institutional objectives.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree required, advanced degree or equivalent experience in higher education, public administration, or related field preferred.
• 4-6 years of progressively responsible experience in program management, operations, or administrative leadership, preferably in a higher education or research center environment.
• Demonstrated experience coordinating complex programs or initiatives involving multiple stakeholders.

Skills and Knowledge

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across academic, administrative, and external constituencies.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and manage operational decision-making within established guidelines.
• Experience with financial processes, budgeting systems, and institutional administrative procedures.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and university systems (e.g., MySlice, Degree Works).
• Demonstrated ability to develop and improve operational processes and workflows.
• Experience with data tracking, assessment methods, or program evaluation preferred.
• High level of discretion, professionalism, and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

Program & Operational Leadership

• Translate strategic priorities established by the Director into actionable plans, timelines, and deliverables.
• Manage internal partnerships with College of Law Advancement, Foundation Relations, and Corporate Giving to support the Director's fundraising strategy and priorities.
• Develop and maintain a working knowledge of SPL-affiliated faculty and their areas of expertise across colleges, and coordinate engagement across this network to support and advance Center initiatives.
• Drive SPL alumni engagement efforts, including maintaining databases and facilitating outreach to develop or promote employment and internship opportunities for current students to include, as appropriate, travel in support of SPL alumni and substantive events
• Represent the institute at meetings and events

Center Initiatives & External Programming

• Oversee the coordination of program components across faculty, staff, and external partners to ensure successful implementation.
• Lead the operational planning and execution of SPL Center Initiatives, including research programs and on-campus and off-site conferences.
• Serve as a primary operational liaison across the College of Law, Maxwell School, SU in DC, and other University units related to Security Policy and Law programming.
• Work with the College of Law Communications team to develop event-related communications and contribute to promotional materials and digital presence.
• Serve as point of contact for SPL's longstanding participation in the Army War College Program and other visiting fellows.

Center Operations & Administration

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the Center to ensure continuity, responsiveness, and alignment with institutional practices.
• Serve as primary liaison with College of Law and Maxwell School budget offices to ensure compliance with financial policies and procedures.
• Manage SPL financial operations, including expense tracking, preparing reconciliations, reimbursements, travel, and procurement processes.
• Tracking expenses and assisting with grant management.
• Coordinate hiring and supervision of student staff supporting SPL activities.

Academic Certificate Program Management

• Oversee administration of SPL's three, signature Certificates of Advanced Study (CAS) programs, including student onboarding and advising with enrollment of 20-30 students annually.
• Coordinate with University Registrar, Bursar, Admissions, and academic departments to support student enrollment and program completion, which includes maintaining program records and ensuring compliance with University requirements for certification and graduation.
• Develop and track student-related metrics (e.g., enrollment, completion, engagement, placement outcomes where available) to assess program effectiveness.
• Lead coordination of faculty engagement in university academic assessment processes by organizing data collection efforts, tracking compliance with assessment requirements, and supporting alignment of program outcomes with institutional standards.
• Other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements

Not Applicable

Tools/Equipment

Not Applicable

Application Instructions

In addition to completing an online application, please attach a resume and cover letter.