Department: Office of the COO
Salary/Grade: EXS/7

Job Summary

The Operations Analyst applies critical project management and analytical skills to support strategic initiatives and administrative responsibilities in the Operations division. 

The analyst supports projects that may include many stakeholders, quick deadlines, and involve sensitive or highly visible topics. This role plays a key part in developing, monitoring, and executing complex project plans. In addition, the role analyzes quantitative and qualitative data, communicates findings effectively to inform the team’s work, and proposes informed solutions. The analyst also supports engagement elements of projects through writing content as well as developing and executing communications plans. 

The analyst will also support certain administrative responsibilities within the Office of the Chief Operating Officer (COO). Such responsibilities may be temporary in nature during peak needs, or more permanent ownership as part of the role. 

The successful candidate is versatile in a fast-paced environment, highly detail-oriented and results-focused, and thinks holistically to ensure initiatives are successfully executed in a complex institution.

This position reports to the Executive Director, and may more broadly support the Office of the COO.   The individual will work collaboratively with key partners in the Operations division  and stakeholders throughout the university.

Principal Accountabilities

Project Management

• Create and manage project work plans according to strict deadlines; monitor, review, and evaluate progress.
• Ensure that program/project mission, values, guidelines, policies and procedures are implemented and maintained.
• Oversee and ensure that day-to-day project operations are appropriately managed, efficient, and effective.
• Troubleshoot issues and capitalize on opportunities that arise while maintaining smooth operations.
• Develop agendas and status reports for project meetings; may facilitate the meeting; identifies and monitors action items.              

Data Analysis

• Manage development of evaluation processes including associated metrics and key performance indicators.
• Review and analyze outcome measurements and recommend changes and enhancements to improve project.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners to implement changes designed to improve/increase project goals and objectives.       

Communication & Engagement

• Manage relationships with internal and external stakeholders and partners; establish and maintain internal and external contacts as necessary.
• Work collaboratively with internal and external partners to develop and execute communications strategies and messaging.    

Administrative Responsibilities 

• Support certain administrative elements of the COO’s office.
• Utilize project management toolkit to apply tracking and monitoring capabilities to regular tasks and functional obligations. 

Project Development

• Research peer and state-of-the art developments to enhance, improve, and innovate strategies to better meet goals and objectives. 
• Oversee development and implementation of new project initiatives. 
• Continually assess and innovate project to achieve goals.

Perform other duties as assigned 

Minimum Qualifications

• Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.   
• 2+ years of work experience with a focus on operational experience and/or project management experience and track record of successfully meeting established expectations.

Minimum Competencies

• Ability to demonstrate self-confidence and appropriate accountability and assertiveness while acting as a team player and showing appreciation for and respecting the collective role of a team.
• Strong interpersonal skills the highest standards of professionalism, including reliable presence, tact, discretion and a customer service-oriented approach.
• Ability to direct and work with cross-functional teams including establishing strong relationships with a wide range of key stakeholders and staff.
• Ability to think strategically and implement tactical initiatives.
• Strong judgement and the ability to problem solve, re-prioritize and pivot as needed in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Proven time management, organizational, and project management skills.
• Comfortable working with databases and systems and has familiarity and comfort with managing data and tracking and documenting customer interactions
• Strong verbal and written communication, persuasion, and listening skills to support and address the needs of students, faculty and staff. Able to navigate complex processes and explain nuanced detail in ways that students, faculty and staff can understand
• Aptitude with technology, including strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite applications and willingness to learn new technology tools.
• Ability to handle confidential information with professionalism and discretion.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong analytical skills with MS Excel analysis
• Experience working with electronic systems at Northwestern, including developing and using reports
• Experience working in a higher education environment

Target hiring range for this position will be between $63,079-$73,000 per year.  Offered salary will be determined by the applicant’s education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data
 

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The Northwestern campus sits on the traditional homelands of the people of the Council of Three Fires, the Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Odawa as well as the Menominee, Miami and Ho-Chunk nations. We acknowledge and honor the original people of the land upon which Northwestern University stands, and the Native people who remain on this land today.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Click for information on EEO is the Law.