Executive Assistant to Academic Deans

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. The Executive Assistant manages high‑level communications, coordinates complex calendars and travel arrangements, and ensures seamless execution of meetings, events, and strategic initiatives while consistently and accurately representing the school’s academic leadership.

The ideal candidate is a highly experienced, resourceful, and poised administrative professional who possesses exceptional judgment, discretion, and communication skills. They manage sensitive information with integrity and professionalism, thrive when working autonomously, navigate unstructured situations, anticipate needs, and proactively identify and implement solutions without specific instructions. They maintain keen attention to detail, manage competing priorities efficiently, and possess exceptional time‑management skills.

Strong interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to cultivate relationships with multiple stakeholders 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.

Rice Business primarily delivers residential classes and activities that occur almost daily between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. The role requires in‑person support and services to all members of the community. Remote work options are limited; most activities must be performed on campus. This position may be offered as a hybrid role after a probationary period, allowing remote work with the necessary equipment and a desk in an open cubicle area on campus.

Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

The hiring salary range is commensurate with experience. Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

• Bachelor’s Degree (In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience above and beyond what is required may be substituted on a year‑for‑year basis.)
• Two or more (2+) years of professional experience as an executive assistant

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including editing and proofreading
• Excellent planning and organizational skills
• High degree of emotional intelligence with demonstrated ability to handle sensitive issues and maintain confidentiality with discretion and manage interpersonal dynamics among senior leaders
• Demonstrated ability to cultivate positive working relationships and gain trust and respect of all levels of internal and external constituencies
• Contextual understanding of these senior leadership positions within the university framework
• Demonstrated ability to perform duties with a high level of professionalism, flexibility, discretion, judgment, diplomacy, and tact
• Ability to multitask, adapt to changing priorities, and meet deadlines
• Advanced computer skills and demonstrated experience with Microsoft Office Suite and email applications

• 10+ years of executive assistant and/or executive administrative experience
• Experience working within higher education supporting academic deans
• Significant technological experience, working with calendar management tools, virtual meeting platforms (Zoom, Teams), institutional systems (iO/Oracle), and Microsoft Office Suite

• Provides advanced and complex administrative and project‑related support directly to each dean, prioritizing a wide range of…