Assistant to the Vice Chancellor for ORED (University, MS, US, 38677) na University of Mississippi | Ole Miss

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via ConnectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

The University of Mississippi

"The University of Mississippi — fondly referred to as Ole Miss — stands as a premier public research institution with a proud legacy of academic distinction. We are devoted to nurturing a vibrant, inclusive community where every member — student, faculty, and staff — can achieve their fullest potential.”

Department Summary

The Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Economic Development leads research advancement, innovation, and economic growth initiatives for the university, fostering collaborations with internal and external partners to elevate the institution's impact across Mississippi, the Mid-South, and beyond.

The office provides strategic direction for research programs and compliance, supports faculty and student research, and drives technology transfer and entrepreneurial efforts. Its mission includes expanding funding opportunities, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and connecting research with real-world applications to benefit the university and broader community.

As the chief research officer for the university, the Vice Chancellor oversees units such as sponsored programs, proposal development, core research facilities, and research compliance. By engaging with industry, government agencies, and nonprofits, the office positions Ole Miss as a leading hub for innovation and economic development in the region. 

Role Specifications

Below you will find classification and compensation information.  For additional details behind the University of Mississippi classification system please visit Human Resource Compensation Page

Family -  Administration 

Sub-Family - Administration Operations

Career Track / Level - P1

Grade - 7

Role Summary

Provides high-level administrative, programmatic, and strategic support to the Vice Chancellor, including proactive calendar, correspondence, and logistics management, as well as preparation of reports and presentations. Anticipates needs to ensure seamless operations and acts as a key liaison, communicating the Vice Chancellor’s priorities, policies, and perspectives to internal and external stakeholders. Exercises independent judgment and discretion in handling sensitive matters and coordinating initiatives in consultation with the Vice Chancellor.

Examples of Work Performed

• Provides multi-faceted administrative support and assistance to ensure effective use of the Vice Chancellor’s time and productive interactions with staff and the public.
• Handles a wide range of administrative and support tasks and independently initiates and implements processes to manage projects, information, and people.
• Manages the Vice Chancellor’s meeting preparations, follow-up tasks, and complex travel arrangements.
• Conducts research and gathers information on behalf of the Vice Chancellor and prepares summaries and reports.
• Develops positive and strategic relationships at all levels of the organization.
• Uses discretion, judgment, and knowledge of the organization to facilitate the Vice Chancellor’s activities and maintain confidentiality.
• May be responsible for directing and deploying support staff or other resources. 

Essential Functions

These essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following.  Additional essential functions may be identified and included by the hiring department.

1. Schedules logistics and secures resources for meetings, conferences, and travel.
2. Serves as a first point of contact for individuals and groups, serving as the executives designee when appropriate. 
3. Develops and prepares various communication and presentation materials for the executive.
4. Sends, receives, copies, and distributes communications to the appropriate entities, using judgment and discretion.

Minimum Education/Experience

Education: Bachelors Degree

Substitution Statement: An equivalent combination of related experience and education may be considered for this role. Substitutions of the required experience or education will be assessed on a 1:1 substitution basis.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, communications, or related field
• At least 3–5 years of high-level administrative support experience, preferably in a research or higher education environment
• Demonstrated organizational, planning, and multitasking skills to manage complex calendars, logistics, and competing priorities
• Advanced proficiency with office software (Microsoft Office Suite, calendar/email systems) and virtual collaboration tools
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing reports and presentations
• Proven ability to exercise independent judgment, discretion, and confidentiality in sensitive matters
• Prior experience acting as liaison with senior leadership and/or external partners
• Demonstrated initiative, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities
• Strong interpersonal skills; ability to build relationships with faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders
• Knowledge of university operations, research administration, or economic development is highly desirable
• Experience supporting strategic projects and handling communications on behalf of an executive leader

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship, age, disability, military status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Minimum Physical Requirements

Physical Requirements:  These physical requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job-related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. 

Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements.

Physical Exertion:  The incumbent may be required to lift up to approximately 10 pounds.

Vision:  Requirements of this job include close vision. Speaking/Hearing: Ability to give and receive information through speaking and listening.

Motor Coordination:  While performing the duties of this job, the incumbent is frequently required to talk and hear; and use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The incumbent is periodically required to sit. The incumbent is occasionally required to stand; walk; and reach with hands and arms

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.