Executive Assistant to Academic Deans

Position: Executive Assistant to the Academic Deans
Special Instructions to Applicants:
All interested applicants should attach a resume in the Supporting Documents section of the application, preferably in a PDF format to avoid any formatting issues.

About Rice:

Boasting a 300-acre tree-lined campus in Houston, Texas, Rice University is ranked among the nation's top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has a 6-to-1 undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio, and a residential college system, which supports students intellectually, emotionally and culturally through social events, intramural sports, student plays, lectures series, courses and student government. Developing close-knit, diverse college communities is a strong campus tradition, which is why Rice is highly ranked for best quality of life and best value among private universities.

Rice is also a wonderful place to work. Rice faculty, staff and students share values that are essential to our success as a healthy community. Those values guide our decisions and behaviors and shape Rice's culture. They come through in the way we treat each other and the welcome we extend to our visitors. These values can be recalled simply by our name - RICE - Responsibility, Integrity, Community and Excellence.

Position Summary:

The Executive Assistant to the Academic Deans of Rice Business provides advanced executive-level administrative support of a highly confidential and strategic nature to key academic leaders, including the Deputy Dean of Academic Affairs, Senior Associate Dean of Degree Programs, Associate Dean of the Virani Undergraduate School of Business, and Associate Dean of Degree Programs. Serving as a trusted partner to the Dean's Leadership Team, this role is integral to supporting and advancing the operational and strategic priorities of Rice Business.

This position requires exceptional judgment, professionalism, discretion, and a proactive approach to managing complex and often competing priorities in a fast-paced academic environment. Operating with a high degree of professionalism, the Executive Assistant anticipates needs, identifies and resolves challenges independently, and executes a broad range of responsibilities with minimal direction or follow-up. The role demands sound decision-making, adaptability, and the ability to handle sensitive matters with the utmost confidentiality and tact.

As a key liaison between the Dean's Office and internal and external stakeholders, the Executive Assistant manages high-level communications, coordinates complex calendars and travel arrangements, and ensures seamless execution of meetings, events, and strategic initiatives, all while consistently and accurately representing the school's academic leadership. This position plays a vital role in enhancing the efficiency, effectiveness, and professionalism of the Dean's Leadership Team while contributing to Rice Business's commitment to excellence and service.

Ideal Candidate Statement:

The ideal candidate for the Executive Assistant to the Academic Deans at Rice Business is a highly experienced, resourceful, and poised administrative professional. They possess exceptional judgment, discretion, and communication skills, and are comfortable managing sensitive information with integrity and professionalism.

This individual thrives when working autonomously, navigating unstructured situations, anticipating needs, and proactively identifying and implementing solutions without the need for specific instructions or prescribed procedures. With keen attention to detail, the ideal candidate is capable of managing competing priorities with efficiency, ensuring seamless support for the engagements and priorities of the Academic Deans. This individual must possess exceptional time-management skills as they support diverse and often competing priorities of a critical nature.

Strong interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to cultivate relationships with multiple stakeholders across the university and beyond are essential. The ideal candidate brings a polished executive presence and a commitment to excellence that aligns with the mission, vision, and values of Rice Business.

Workplace Requirements:

Rice Business primarily delivers residential classes and activities taking place almost daily between 7 am and 10 pm. We value a highly collaborative and community-based culture, with expectations to provide in-person support and services to all members of our community. Remote work options are limited. Most employment activities are required to be performed in-person and on-campus. This in-person approach is central to the successful achievement of our research and academic missions.

This position may be offered as a hybrid role and may combine both in-office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration. Remote work opportunities are possibly extended to the candidate following the successful conclusion of the probationary period. They will be issued a laptop that can be taken off-campus for…