Director of Strategic Initiatives and Engagement

Director of Strategic Initiatives and Engagement

The Director of Strategic Initiatives and Engagement is a strategic adviser to the Chief of Staff and Chancellor, responsible for leading, shaping and advancing institutional priorities and driving high‑impact initiatives aligned with the university's mission and strategic goals. The Director provides data‑informed insight, leads cross‑functional initiatives, translates complex challenges into actionable strategies, and represents the Office of the Chancellor in key internal and external settings.

• Lead the identification, development and execution of high‑priority strategic initiatives, translating institutional priorities into actionable strategies, implementation plans and measurable outcomes.
• Play a lead role in institutional strategic planning activities, including development, implementation and ongoing refinement of strategic plans in collaboration with divisional leadership; monitor, evaluate, and report on progress.
• Build and sustain collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including faculty, staff, system partners and community leaders; facilitate communication and coordination to advance shared institutional goals.
• Serve on institutional committees and strategic working groups; contribute to special projects and priorities on behalf of the Chief of Staff and Chancellor.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree
• Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in strategic initiatives, executive advising or complex project management
• Demonstrated experience leading cross‑functional initiatives and advising senior leaders
• Experience developing strategic recommendations informed by data and stakeholder insight
• Experience representing an organization or executive leadership in meetings, at events and in high‑level executive settings
• Strong organizational and communication skills

• Master’s degree
• Experience in higher education, government, nonprofit or other similarly complex mission‑driven organizations
• Experience working directly with executive leadership in a strategy or consulting role
• Experience with institutional or organizational strategic planning processes

• Strategic mindset with the ability to connect big‑picture vision to execution
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to translate data into insight
• Strong interpersonal and relationship‑building skills
• Ability to collaborate across diverse groups and build consensus
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and follow‑through
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Familiarity with project management tools or practices
• Commitment to collaboration, responsiveness and continuous improvement
• Utmost integrity

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer dedicated to building a community of excellence, equity, and diversity. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment and we welcome applications from qualified individuals of all backgrounds and identities. The University of Illinois System does not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, marital status, disability, sexual orientation including gender identity, or other protected categories.

Background checks are conducted on all candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer. Convictions are not a bar to employment. Candidates selected for hire are required to disclose any documented findings of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment and authorize inquiries to current and former employers.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

Benefits include Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid Time Off, and tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

All postings close at 5:00pm CST on the posting close date.