Dir-Syst Strategy

Dir-Syst Strategy & Ops
Department:
SA System Liaisons

Advertised Salary Range:
$116,104-$130,000

Part/Full Time:
Full Time

About UofSC
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

Inclusive Excellence Statement
Advertised Job Summary
The Office of System Affairs is seeking to hire a Director of System Strategy and Operations to join our team.

The Director of System Strategy and Operations serves as a key strategic partner to the Vice President for System Affairs, leading cross-institutional coordination efforts and driving system-wide initiatives that enhance effectiveness and efficiency across the University of South Carolina System. This position is responsible for developing and implementing strategic plans, facilitating collaboration among three comprehensive universities and five two-year institutions, and identifying opportunities for operational improvements and resource optimization.

Role
The System Office is designed to be small, nimble, and flexible, providing coordination and support services that enhance the performance of all institutions while respecting their individual missions and autonomy. This position represents a foundational hire in building the System Office's capacity to serve as an effective coordinating body.This position plays a critical role in realizing the vision of a more coordinated and effective USC System. The Director of System Strategy and Operations will:

• Enhance Institutional Performance: Support all eight institutions in achieving their missions through improved coordination and resource sharing
• Drive Innovation: Identify and implement innovative approaches to common challenges across the system
• Maximize Resources: Optimize the use of system resources through strategic planning and process improvement
• Build Collaboration: Foster a culture of collaboration and shared purpose across diverse institutions
• Support Decision-Making: Provide data-driven insights that inform strategic decisions at system and institutional levels
• Strengthen the System: Help establish the USC System as a model of effective coordination and collaboration in public higher education

Preferred Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications (Classified and Unclassified positions)

• Master's degree in higher education administration, public administration, business administration, or related field· 8 years of progressively responsible experience in higher education, with at least 3 years in strategic planning, operations management, or institutional research· Demonstrated experience managing complex, cross-functional projects involving multiple stakeholders· Proven track record of developing and implementing strategic initiatives in higher education or similar complex organizations
• Experience working in a multi-institution university system or system office· Background in process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma, continuous improvement)
• Experience with higher education accreditation processes and compliance requirements· Knowledge of South Carolina higher education landscape and public policy environment

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to think systemically and develop long-term strategic plans that balance competing priorities and institutional needs· Analytical Skills: Strong quantitative and qualitative analytical abilities with experience in data analysis and performance measurement· Project Management: Demonstrated expertise in managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders, tight deadlines, and competing priorities· Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with ability to synthesize complex information for diverse audiences· Collaboration: Proven ability to build consensus, facilitate discussions, and work effectively across organizational boundaries· Problem-Solving: Creative and analytical approach to identifying and resolving operational challenges· Technology Proficiency: Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite, data visualization tools, project management software, and database applications· Leadership: Ability to lead without formal authority, influence stakeholders, and drive change in complex organizational environments· Interpersonal Skills: Strong relationship-building skills with ability to work effectively with diverse constituencies including faculty, administrators, staff, and external stakeholders

Job Close Date
01/18/2026

Special Instructions to Applicant
Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
We are only accepting applications submitted by
January 18, 2026.
To apply, please visit:
*EEO Statement

The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities on the basis of race, sex, gender, gender identity, transgender status, age, color, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, genetics, protected veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions.*
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