Project Operations Manager - Syracuse University : Job Details

The Office of the Chief Operations Officer is seeking an experienced Project Operations Manager to lead project team efforts within the division and support the implementation and maintenance of process improvement initiatives. Detail-oriented and proactive, this role will rely on well-honed analytical aptitude to assess complex situations to manage both moderate and large-scale projects, effectively develop and manage timelines, and provide regular progress updates to critical stakeholders. This role will create synergistic relationships with Division leadership, project leaders and key stakeholders, including the Communications Director, to ensure compliance of all printed materials with University Brand Guidelines, suitable for presentation to University Senior Leadership and Trustees.

This position is responsible for researching and analyzing the operational activities of the business to support process efficiency and overall optimization of operations. This role will review current policies, operating procedures and develop efficiency changes and implement new policies and procedures as needed. Prior experience working in the hospitality sector (business dining, healthcare, higher education) with contract services management companies such as Compass, Aramark, or Sodexo would be highly advantageous.

Education and Experience

* Bachelor of Science in a Business-related discipline related field.

* Two (2) plus years of experience in analytical role.

* LEAN Six Sigma certification preferred.

Skills and Knowledge

* Experience in the hospitality sector (business dining, healthcare, higher education) and with contract services management companies such as Compass, Aramark, or Sodexo preferred.

* Advanced proficiency in Excel, particularly with pivot tables and report creation.

* Experience in Lean Six Sigma methodologies, basic short cycle improvement programs, and KPI and metric reporting is desirable.

* Experience building reports using Tableau, Power BI, or comparable software desirable.

* Experience and personal discipline to successfully manage multiple, complex, concurrent projects; can meet deadlines with competing demands, and responsibilities in a fast-paced work environment

* Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly, concisely and simply with senior leaders and external partners/clients.

* Positive, team-focused, and customer-service oriented.

Responsibilities

* Utilizing critical thinking and strong problem-solving techniques, research and identify operational challenges and opportunities for improvement for the division.

* Utilize statistical modeling, data analysis, forecasting, for assessment and strategizing.

* Generate and analyze operational performance reports using MS Office Suite tools (MS Excel, pivot tables etc.)

* Engage, co-lead and direct division project teams to initiate and facilitate division projects.

* Develop project timelines and manage deadlines.

* Provide project updates at regularly established intervals.

* Work closely with the division's Communications Manager to create university-branded metrics and reports suitable for presentation to division leadership, University senior leadership, and Board of Trustees.

* Serve as primary point of contact on division projects.

* Facilitate coordination and communication between and within project teams and partners, ensuring everyone is aligned.

* Create project spaces in Microsoft Teams that allow for effective communication.

* When necessary, collaborate with university partners to facilitate continuous improvement culture ideals.

* Monitor progress and initiate adjustments as needed.

* Provide continuous updates to leadership team, utilizing analytical data support as reference.

* Demonstrating fluent cultural competency in a diverse environment, partner with the Division's Training Specialist to lead recommended operational changes, including training employees at all levels on new procedures, systems, and policies.

* Other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements

Not Applicable

Tools/Equipment

Not Applicable

Application Instructions

In addition to completing an online application, please attach a resume and cover letter.