Chief of Staff, Office of the Dean, Trinity College of Arts and Sciences

Chief of Staff, Office of the Dean, Trinity College of Arts and Sciences

As the Dean's senior strategic partner and principal advisor, the Chief of Staff is responsible for advancing the mission and priorities of Trinity College of Arts & Sciences through exceptional organizational leadership, coordination, and execution. This role requires a unique combination of strategic judgment, operational excellence, political acumen, and emotional intelligence.

The Chief of Staff functions as one extension of the Dean within the leadership team, helping represent the Dean's perspective, managing institutional relationships, and ensuring that the College's priorities are advanced with discipline, coherence, and clarity. Reporting directly to the Dean, the Chief of Staff provides leadership across the Dean's Office, overseeing strategic communications, special projects, faculty governance engagement, and Trinity Board of Visitors liaison functions. The Chief of Staff also serves as the Dean's senior advisor and trusted representative, ensuring continuity of leadership and decision-making when operational or strategic demands require it.

Minimum Required Qualifications :

Education / Training : Work generally requires organizational, analytical and communication skills normally acquired through the completion of a bachelor's degree program.

Experience : Seven years of administration, management, or supervisory experience (including project management) is required. OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND / OR EXPERIENCE

Strongly Preferred Qualifications :

Education : Master's Degree

Skills & Experience : Ten years of progressively responsible experience in higher education or a similarly complex organization. At least eight years of administrative, management / supervisory, and project management experience. Demonstrated ability to lead through influence and navigate complex stakeholder environments. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to anticipate needs and develop practical solutions. Deep understanding of academic culture, governance, and institutional decision-making. Experience managing communications, special projects, and / or board relations within a higher education setting. Familiarity with Duke University systems, policies, and administrative processes. Exceptional organizational, project management, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills, along with a communication style that reflects maturity, poise, sensitivity, and collaboration. Ability to communicate, collaborate, and lead in ways that foster understanding, engagement, progress, and effective resolution. Proven ability to work effectively as part of a team, meet deadlines, and guide others in doing the same. High energy, ability to multitask, and a creative approach to problem solving.