Associate Provost for Pre-K-12 Education Initiatives and Strategic Partnerships

Join the University of Chicago's Commitment to Excellence in Education

The University of Chicago, a renowned institution dedicated to rigorous inquiry and academic excellence, is seeking an exceptional Associate Provost to oversee its pre-K-12 education initiatives, particularly focusing on the University of Chicago Charter School (UCCS). This strategic role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and the community, while contributing to the University's tradition of excellence in education.

About the University of Chicago and its Pre-K-12 Education Initiatives

The University of Chicago is distinguished by its firm commitment to rigorous inquiry in all its forms. Among its many strengths, the University operates numerous entities and initiatives focused on excellent elementary and secondary education. These range from faculty research and scholarship and units and programs that focus on urban school improvement and student success; to the University of Chicago Laboratory School; to programs that support the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) in various ways.

Central to the University's commitment to public education is the UChicago Charter School (UCCS). UCCS began in 1998 with a group of committed educators, who, working in partnership with the University of Chicago, founded the North Kenwood/Oakland Campus, a prekindergarten to fifth grade school. UCCS opened its second elementary campus, Donoghue, in 2005. UCCS's first middle school and high school campus was established in 2006 for students from grades six to 12 at the Woodlawn Campus. Today, the three UChicago Charter campuses, and their 200+ staff members, offer over 1300 neighborhood children on Chicago's South Side a pre-K through grade 12 path to college.

Job Summary

The University of Chicago is seeking an Associate Provost to supervise and oversee UCCS and work with relevant faculty and administrators across the University to deepen existing and build new initiatives to support UCCS, as well as other CPS schools in the communities surrounding the University. The Associate Provost will also support Office of the Provost initiatives and special projects, with the opportunity for growth and the development of a broader portfolio.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise UCCS and UCCS leadership to help strengthen UCCS's academic, operational, and financial performance in collaboration with the Provost's Office and members of the UCCS Board of Directors.
• Lead the development and implementation of pre-K-12 initiatives to strengthen the connections between UCCS and the University and further academic engagement and excellence.
• Identify new opportunities for UCCS to advance its strategic plan and prepare UCCS for its next charter renewal effort.
• Elevate the Office of the Provost's broader mission and provide administrative and operational leadership on initiatives and special projects.
• Develop a thorough and rigorous understanding of UCCS's academic, operational, and financial performance and governance history.
• Understand the University's values, history of its work in pre-K-12 education, and current pre-K-12-related education initiatives.
• Partner with University's units to develop innovative and strategic education-related initiatives.
• Assist in other Office of the Provost initiatives and special projects.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Essential Qualifications

• Master's degree or higher required.
• A minimum of 7+ years of professional experience in education or related roles preferred.
• Experience working across education-related organizations, partnerships, and initiatives preferred.
• Understanding of strategic planning for large, complex institutions preferred.
• Management experience preferred.
• Experience monitoring budgets preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to influence people to meet goals and deadlines, work collaboratively with senior leadership, colleagues, and other constituents preferred.
• Experience overseeing strategic initiatives, priority-setting, and long-term planning preferred.
• Demonstrated success meeting or exceeding goals preferred.

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent judgment.
• Interpersonal skills and ability to oversee UCCS for the Office of the Provost and connect with key constituents across the University.
• Detail-oriented, data-driven, and financially skilled budget review, design, and management.
• Ability to think creatively to address complex needs and situations across the University.
• Exceptional time, project management, and organizational skills, including the ability to meet external and internal deadlines.
• Deep knowledge of ongoing education initiatives and University priorities to support UCCS.
• Ability to work independently with a high degree of initiative.
• Proven ability to lead and work effectively horizontally and vertically across the organization.
• Excellent oral and written communications, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to handle complex and confidential information with discretion.
• Commitment to timely execution of the responsibilities of this role, including on nights and weekends as needed.

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

The University of Chicago offers a dynamic and supportive work environment that fosters professional growth and development. As an Associate Provost, you will have the opportunity to:

• Contribute to the University's mission and strategic initiatives.
• Develop your leadership and management skills.
• Collaborate with senior leaders, faculty, and staff across the University.
• Engage in professional development opportunities, including training and education programs.
• Be part of a diverse and inclusive community that values rigorous inquiry and intellectual challenge.

Work Environment and Company Culture

The University of Chicago is committed to creating a work environment that is inclusive, respectful, and supportive of all employees. Our culture values:

• Diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Rigorous inquiry and intellectual challenge.
• Collaboration and teamwork.
• Professional growth and development.
• Work-life balance.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

The University of Chicago offers a competitive compensation package, including:

• A salary range dependent on qualifications.
• Comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional development and education.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment.

Conclusion

If you are a motivated and experienced education professional looking to make a meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply for the Associate Provost for Pre-K-12 Education Initiatives and Strategic Partnerships role at the University of Chicago. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the University's commitment to excellence in education and make a difference in the lives of students and the community.

Apply now and join our team of dedicated professionals who share a passion for education and a commitment to excellence.