Opportunity at Duke: Associate Vice President for Resource Planning & Administration
Duke University is seeking a dynamic leader to fill the role of Associate Vice President for Resource Planning & Administration (AVP) within its Division of Student Affairs. This pivotal position offers a unique chance to oversee financial and administrative functions while supporting the university’s mission of fostering an inclusive, engaged, and thriving student community. For those interested in higher education administration jobs, this is a prestigious and influential opening.
About Duke University and the Division of Student Affairs
Duke University, located in North Carolina, enrolls close to 6,500 undergraduate and over 10,950 graduate and professional students from around the globe. With a network of more than 200,000 alumni and a workforce exceeding 48,000 staff—including the Duke University Health System—it stands as one of the largest private employers in the region.
The Division of Student Affairs plays a central role in supporting over 16,000 students and engaging thousands more, including families, alumni, and campus visitors. The division encompasses 27 departments and manages an operating budget of $163 million. Its mission is to advance student health, well-being, and a sense of belonging, while nurturing co-curricular development and a campus culture built on respect and inclusion.
Key Responsibilities of the AVP
The Associate Vice President for Resource Planning & Administration will report to the Vice Provost/Vice President for Student Affairs (VPSA). This leadership role is responsible for guiding the division’s administrative and financial operations, which include managing 2.5 million square feet of property dedicated to residential, conference, dining, and campus life functions. The AVP also oversees more than 500 full-time staff and an additional 800 contract employees.
Direct reports include teams in Budget and Finance, Human Resources, Facilities Planning Operations, and Housing Operations. The AVP will collaborate extensively with university partners in finance, facilities, capital planning, administration, and human resources. By aligning student-focused needs with broader university objectives, the AVP ensures that all resources meaningfully support Duke’s strategic vision.
Ideal Candidate Profile for Higher Education Administration Jobs
Applicants should possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field and have a minimum of eight years’ experience in financial and business operations within large, complex organizations. Experience in workforce development is a key asset. The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- Expertise in financial and resource planning
- Strong background in human resources and facilities management
- Outstanding communication skills, both written and verbal
- Experience building collaborative partnerships across diverse university stakeholders
- A commitment to inclusive excellence and enhancing the student experience
- Proven ability to lead organizational change and manage high-performing teams
- Capacity to translate complex financial information for diverse audiences while focusing on strategic priorities
This is an exceptional opportunity for candidates seeking advanced higher education administration jobs, especially those passionate about supporting student success and organizational excellence.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Duke University and its search partner, Isaacson, Miller, are deeply committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment. The university is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer, offering employment regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status. Reasonable accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities.
Application Process
Screening of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Interested candidates should submit their application materials—including a cover letter and curriculum vitae—through the Isaacson, Miller website. The search is led by Keight Tucker Kennedy (Managing Partner), David Grimes (Senior Associate), and Alexis Scott (Managing Search Coordinator) at Isaacson, Miller.
For more details and to apply, visit the Isaacson, Miller job listing. This leadership role stands out among higher education administration jobs for its impact and scope at one of the nation’s most respected universities.
Conclusion
This Associate Vice President for Resource Planning & Administration position at Duke University is an outstanding example of the diverse and rewarding higher education administration jobs available in today’s academic landscape. The role promises not only professional growth but the opportunity to shape the student experience at a top-tier institution.
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