Associate Provost for Strategy and Planning – Job Posting

 The university welcomes applications from individuals who may have had nontraditional career paths, or who may have taken time off for family reasons (e.g. children, caring for disabled or elderly family), or who have achieved excellence in careers outside of academia (e.g., in professional or industry service).

 SUMMARY: Reporting to the Provost and Senior VP, the Associate Provost for Strategy & Planning (AP- S&P) will understand and champion the strategic priorities of the University and of the Academic Affairs division. In advancing these goals, the AP-S&P will assist the Academic Affairs Division and the University in the areas of budget analysis, strategic planning, program review, and program development. In collaboration with the Provost and other Associate Provosts, the IR Office, and the Office of the Registrar, the AP-S&P will lead robust data collection, resource allocation tracking and trend analysis, and forecasting of key academic performance indicators. The AP-S&P will analyze and synthesize external research and internal information to produce actionable recommendations for senior decision-makers in all divisions of the University, given institutional constraints and priorities.

UNIVERSITY SUMMARY:  Historically progressive and building. That is the hallmark of Otterbein University and those connected to this private university nestled in the picturesque, historic Uptown Westerville district in central Ohio and minutes away from Columbus, Ohio’s largest city. Otterbein has set the pace by providing an educational experience that is progressive, innovative, and inclusive. Students come from towns throughout Ohio, as well as many states and multiple countries, enriching the campus through their individual and collective diversity. As a university that educates students of various racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, we strive for and value a diverse faculty and staff that reflects our student population and Franklin County.??? 

 Otterbein has been selected as one of 23 universities across the US and the first in Ohio to host a Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation Campus Center. Otterbein will work with its own campus community as well as the Columbus City and Westerville City school districts to create positive narrative change about race; promote racial healing activities; and erase structural barriers to equity and opportunity.?? The AP-S&P, through leadership on budget analysis, strategic planning, and program review and development, will play a critical role in supporting the University's ongoing work for equity and accessibility. ? 

EDUCATION: At least Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in assessment, data analysis, higher education administration, or other related field. Faculty status may be negotiated.  

EXPERIENCE:  Significant leadership experience in higher education with first-hand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities that exist for private colleges is essential. In addition, candidates should have demonstrated success in recommending strategies and tactics to improve distribution of resources (financial and personnel) that positively impact the efficiency and efficacy of university operations, especially academic. Experience addressing budgetary challenges especially as these may relate to shifting enrollment patterns, student success challenges, and staffing challenges is expected. Evidence of successful program development is desired. Evidence of commitment to innovation and collaboration with all areas of the University to enhance the range and quality of data available to inform strategic decision-making, and of transforming large complex data sets into meaningful and actionable information is required.

TECHNICAL SKILLS: Fluid knowledge of the structure and analytical capacity of national higher education and market related datasets, including but not limited to IPEDS, CUPA-HR, AAUP, Delaware Cost Study, National Student Clearinghouse [and the like]. Data analytic skills that include data querying (SQL or visual design), ability to construct, manipulate and use data spreadsheets in MS Excel, data visualization software (preferably MS Power BI) and statistical analysis software (such as SPSS, R, Rapid Insight, or other similar programs). Proficiency in statistical design and techniques including modeling, multivariate analyses, linear and logistic regression and forecasting.  Strong problem solving, interpersonal and supervisory skills; the ability to meet deadlines and achieve goals in a fast-paced and changing environment. Must take pride in and be thorough in quality of work produced.   

REASONING ABILITY: Must possess excellent attention to details. Must possess excellent customer service skills. Must possess strong organizational skills. Ability to exercise initiative and independent judgment in unusual or new situations.  Must be able to work independently and must retain confidential information.  Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a team; with faculty to enhance the commitment to advancing assessment measures on campus; and, effectively with diverse constituencies, including senior administrators, faculty, and staff. Must be able to analyze and synthesize information in order to make actionable recommendations to senior decision-makers, given institutional constraints and priorities.