Executive Director – Business Innovation

Define and lead DAR’s approach to business process improvement
Partner with DAR leaders to assess operations, identify inefficiencies, and design scalable, sustainable solutions
Develop and manage a prioritized portfolio of process improvement and innovation initiatives
Apply structured methodologies to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and service
Translate business needs into technology-enabled solutions
Partner with technology teams to optimize business processes
Identify, evaluate, and implement emerging technologies, including AI, automation, and workflow tools
Pilot and scale innovative solutions supporting DAR’s operational needs
Align business processes, systems, and DAR strategic priorities
Support university and DAR growth initiatives by aligning operations with strategic objectives
Lead change management strategies and support adoption of new processes, systems, and tools
Collaborate with Training and departmental leaders to design and deliver training and support resources
Create communication plans, feedback loops, and adoption metrics
Partner with Data Strategy, Vandy Quest Operations, and the Project Management Office on cross-functional initiatives
Act as a liaison across teams to coordinate execution
Ensure process improvements are data-driven and consistent with data governance
Monitor emerging trends in business innovation, automation, AI, and digital transformation
Introduce leading practices from higher education and other industries
Foster innovation, experimentation, and continuous improvement across DAR
Handle sensitive donor and student information confidentially
Perform other duties as assigned

• Bachelor’s degree, or the equivalent, is required
• 10 years of progressively responsible experience in business process improvement, operations, innovation, or related fields
• Demonstrated success leading cross-functional initiatives in matrixed environments
• Expertise in process improvement methodologies, change management, and organizational effectiveness
• Experience implementing technology-enabled solutions, including automation and workflow tools
• Ability to translate strategic goals into operational execution and measurable outcomes
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and facilitation skills
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to influence at all organizational levels
• High level of discretion and ability to manage sensitive, confidential information
• Demonstrated success working across teams and disciplines, facilitating solutions, designing new ideas, and driving priorities
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities
• Advanced degree is preferred

Demonstrates expertise in business process improvement and change management, with a strong ability to translate strategic goals into operational execution. Proficient in implementing technology-enabled solutions and fostering innovation across teams to drive efficiency and effectiveness.

• Business Process Improvement
• Change Management
• Technology-Enabled Solutions
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Data-Driven Decision Making

• Process Improvement Methodologies
• Automation Tools
• Workflow Tools
• Analytical Skills
• Problem-Solving Skills

• Excellent Communication
• Collaboration Skills
• Influencing Skills
• Initiative
• Adaptability

• Higher Education
• Operational Effectiveness
• Innovation
• Matrixed Environments
• Continuous Improvement

• AI Technologies
• Digital Transformation Tools
• Data Governance Tools