How to Apply
To apply, please submit a single document containing both your cover letter and resume. Your cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline your experience that directly relates to the responsibilities described below.
Job Summary
The Office of Planning and Strategic Initiatives (OPSI) is seeking an experienced, proactive, strategic, and highly organized Executive Assistant to provide direct support to the Associate Vice President for Planning and Strategic Initiatives (AVPPSI).
Part of Business & Finance, under the leadership of the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (EVPCFO), OPSI advances the legacy of the University of Michigan through partnering, pathfinding, and problem-solving on significant matters across the enterprise. In all our work, we strive to uphold our core values of people first, perseverance, excellence, and service.
In this role, you will provide comprehensive, strategic support to a senior leader with a broad portfolio, including complex calendar management, meeting and event coordination, project support, and preparation of materials for high-visibility university initiatives. You will serve as a key point of coordination across a wide range of stakeholders and must bring executive presence, strong judgment, and professionalism in working with senior leaders both within and beyond the university.
You'll draw on your experience supporting senior leadership in a large, complex organization-ideally within higher education-and will demonstrate exceptional communication skills, excellent organizational and time-management abilities, and comfort navigating sensitive and confidential matters. Familiarity with the University of Michigan's structure and governance is a plus, as is experience supporting complex, multi-stakeholder projects.
This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to enterprise-level initiatives while developing strong, collaborative partnerships across the university.
Why Work at Michigan?
The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package including:
- Generous paid time off and family leave
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement plan with two-for-one matching contributions
- Life insurance and long-term disability coverage
- Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care
Responsibilities*
Executive Support & Communication (60%)
- Manage the AVPPSI's complex and high-volume calendar, coordinating meetings with senior leaders and stakeholders across the university and beyond.
- Prepare briefing materials, meeting agendas, and talking points to ensure the AVPPSI is fully prepared for internal and external engagements.
- Monitor and manage the AVPPSI's email inbox, including triaging messages, tracking outstanding items, drafting responses, and advising on appropriate follow-up.
- Draft, proofread, and edit a variety of professional communications and materials, including presentations, memos, reports, and emails.
- Provide comprehensive support for virtual, in-person, and hybrid meetings, ensuring seamless logistics and technology coordination.
- Arrange domestic and occasional international travel, including itineraries, bookings, and timely submission of travel and expense reports.
Administrative Support & Team Engagement (25%)
- Collaborate closely with the Director of Administration and Operations to align administrative priorities and ensure coordinated support for the AVPPSI and the broader EVPCFO team.
- Support office-wide initiatives and operational needs as assigned by the Director of Administration and Operations, including cross-office coordination and process improvements.
- Serve as a collaborative and dependable administrative partner across the EVPCFO team, supporting internal initiatives and sharing best practices.
- Participate in shared scheduling and coordination for the EVPCFO leadership team and provide backup support to peer executive assistants as needed.
- Help plan and execute team meetings, retreats, recognition events, and other internal gatherings, contributing to a positive and inclusive team culture.
Project & Initiative Coordination (15%)
- Provide administrative and logistical support for cross-functional projects and strategic initiatives led by the AVPPSI.
- Maintain close coordination with Lead Project Managers and internal collaborators to track timelines, deliverables, and follow-ups.
- Prepare agendas, materials, and meeting notes for recurring and ad hoc project meetings; ensure timely distribution and documentation.
- Track next steps and outstanding tasks, proactively surfacing issues and ensuring the AVPPSI is informed and equipped to take action.
- Assist with documentation, background research, stakeholder coordination, and progress reporting in support of high-impact initiatives.
Required Qualifications*
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
- Minimum seven years of administrative experience.
- Proven ability to manage calendars, prioritize tasks, and anticipate needs in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills; ability to manage multiple workstreams and meet deadlines independently.
- High level of professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and virtual meeting platforms such as Zoom.
Desired Qualifications*
- Experience coordinating complex projects or initiatives involving multiple stakeholders.
- Familiarity with the University of Michigan or higher education environment.
- Comfortable working with confidential and sensitive information.
- Ability to foster positive working relationships and navigate ambiguity with flexibility and initiative.
Work Schedule
Monday-Friday; 8:00a-5:00p
The role is based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with on-site work expected at the Ruthven Building at least 4 days a week, with the opportunity to work hybrid up to 1 day a week.
This role will sometimes require flexibility in work schedule, including availability in evenings and weekends, based on business needs.
Work arrangements are reviewed annually and may be adjusted as needed to meet business requirements.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.