Executive Director of Operations, School of Medicine

Job Details:

The Mercer University School of Medicine is searching for an Executive Director of Operations on the Macon, Georgia campus.

Responsibilities:

The Executive Director of Operations, Mercer School of Medicine, serves as the senior operational leader responsible for overseeing and coordinating the School’s facilities and operational functions across all campuses. Reporting to the Dean, this position provides strategic leadership in support of academic, clinical, and research missions by aligning operational resources, infrastructure, and compliance activities with institutional goals.

Working in close partnership with the Executive Director of Finance and Administration, this position ensures effective financial planning, regulatory compliance, project execution, procurement, HR coordination, and contract oversight. This position also serves as the principal liaison between the School of Medicine and various university departments (e.g., Physical Plant, HR, Risk Management) for major capital projects, facilities operations, and faculty appointments.

Qualifications:

A master's degree from an accredited institution in Project Management, Business Administration/Management/Development, Construction/Facilities Management, Public Administration, or a related field is required. Additionally, candidates must have at least five years of progressively responsible experience in facilities operations, project coordination, construction management, or operational oversight, which should include general accounting and finance, knowledge and understanding of GAAP, and budgeting preparation and maintenance experience. Must have at least three years of management or supervisory experience. Candidates who have experience in higher education, healthcare, and/or other complex organizations are preferred.

Candidates must have a valid driver's license and be insurable by the university's carrier.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

Strategic and Operational Leadership
Ability to think strategically, anticipate operational challenges, and lead organizational change initiatives that improve efficiency, service delivery, and alignment with institutional goals.

Regulatory and Accreditation Compliance
Comprehensive understanding of federal, state, and institutional regulatory requirements related to medical education, clinical operations, and public appropriations. Demonstrated ability to ensure compliance with accreditation and oversight entities such as LCME, AAMC, and the Georgia Board for Physician Workforce.

Financial Management and Analysis
Demonstrated expertise in analyzing complex financial data to support decision-making, budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning. Proven ability to manage, reconcile, and monitor multi-million-dollar budgets across multiple departments or locations.

Systems and Technical Proficiency
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel (including advanced functions), Word, Outlook, and related tools for budgeting and reporting. Familiarity with enterprise-level budgeting platforms and financial management systems.

Contract Management and Legal/Financial Interpretation
Proven experience reviewing, negotiating, and managing various types of contracts, including clinical affiliation agreements, vendor contracts, and leases. Ability to interpret legal and financial terms to ensure compliance with institutional policies and objectives.

Leadership and Team Development
Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop high-performing administrative and financial teams across geographically dispersed campuses. Strong organizational and delegation skills.

Interpersonal and Communication Skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain productive relationships with academic leaders, clinical partners, administrative units, and external stakeholders.

Professionalism and Judgment
High level of integrity, accountability, and professionalism. Demonstrated diplomacy, discretion, and patience in managing sensitive personnel and operational matters.

Time Management and Prioritization
Strong ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain attention to detail in a dynamic and complex academic and clinical environment.

Background Check Contingencies:
- Criminal History
- Approved Driver's Check

Required Document Attachments:
- Resume
- Cover letter
- List of three professional references with contact information

About Mercer University

Founded in 1833, Mercer University is a distinguished private institution recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, leadership development, and community engagement. With campuses across Georgia, Mercer’s twelve schools and colleges offer a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The university cultivates a close-knit, student-centered environment where innovation, service, and personal growth are deeply valued. Mercer’s employees are at the heart of its mission, dedicated to advancing innovation, supporting student success, and strengthening both our local and global communities through service. At Mercer, we believe in the power of relationships and the importance of in-person collaboration. Accordingly, our employees are expected to serve in-person as it fosters real-time problem solving, mentoring, and the meaningful connections that strengthen both our work and service to our students and the broader university community.

Why Work at Mercer University

Mercer University offers a variety of benefits for eligible employees including comprehensive health insurance (for self and dependents), generous retirement contributions, tuition waivers, paid vacation and sick leave, technology discounts, schedules that allow for work-life balance, and so much more!

At Mercer University, a Bear is more than a mascot: it's a frame of mind that begins with a strong desire to make the most out of your career. Mercer Bears do not settle for mediocrity or the status quo. If you're seeking an environment where your passion and determination are embraced, then you want to work at Mercer University.

For more information, please visit:

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Job Family:

Staff Administrative Operations Exempt

EEO Statement:

EEO/Veteran/Disability