University of South Carolina
Dir-Syst Strategy & Ops
🇺🇸 Columbia, SC
🕑 Full-Time
💰 $116K - $130K
💻 Other
🗓️ December 22nd, 2025
Sigma
Six Sigma
Edtech.com's Summary
University of South Carolina is hiring a Director of System Strategy and Operations. The director will lead cross-institutional coordination and drive system-wide initiatives to enhance effectiveness and efficiency across the USC System. They will develop strategic plans, facilitate collaboration among multiple universities and colleges, and seek operational improvements and resource optimization.
Highlights
- Lead development and implementation of system-wide strategic initiatives with institutional leaders.
- Facilitate strategic planning and coordinate cross-institutional working groups and task forces.
- Conduct analysis to identify operational efficiencies and lead continuous improvement projects.
- Develop and maintain key performance indicators and data-driven reports to support decision-making.
- Serve as primary liaison between System Office and institutional leadership, fostering collaboration across all eight institutions.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, data visualization tools, project management software, and database applications.
- Requires bachelor's degree in job-related field with minimum 8 years related experience including management.
- Preferred qualifications include a master’s degree in higher education administration or related fields, experience in strategic planning, operations management, institutional research, and knowledge of South Carolina higher education landscape.
- Salary range: $116,104 to $130,000 annually.
- Responsible for supporting three comprehensive universities and five two-year institutions within the USC System.
Dir-Syst Strategy & Ops Full Description
Dir-Syst Strategy & Ops
Please see Special Instructions for more details.
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.
Logo |
Posting Number | STA00994PO25
Job Family | Operational Analysis
Job Function | Partnerships & Initiatives
USC Market Title | Director, Strategic Initiatives
Link to USC Market Title | https://uscjobs.sc.edu/titles/198570
Job Level | E0 - Directors and Executives
Business Title (Internal Title) | Dir-Syst Strategy & Ops
Campus | Columbia
Work County | Richland
College/Division | System Affairs
Department | SA System Liaisons
State Pay Band | Unclassified
Approved Starting Salary | $116,104
Advertised Salary Range | $116,104-$130,000
Location of Vacancy |
Part/Full Time | Full Time
Hours per Week | 37.5
Work Schedule |
Basis | 12 months
Job Search Category | Other Professional
Posting Number | STA00994PO25
Job Family | Operational Analysis
Job Function | Partnerships & Initiatives
USC Market Title | Director, Strategic Initiatives
Link to USC Market Title | https://uscjobs.sc.edu/titles/198570
Job Level | E0 - Directors and Executives
Business Title (Internal Title) | Dir-Syst Strategy & Ops
Campus | Columbia
Work County | Richland
College/Division | System Affairs
Department | SA System Liaisons
State Pay Band | Unclassified
Approved Starting Salary | $116,104
Advertised Salary Range | $116,104-$130,000
Location of Vacancy |
Part/Full Time | Full Time
Hours per Week | 37.5
Work Schedule |
Basis | 12 months
Job Search Category | Other Professional
About USC
About University of South Carolina | 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.
Veterans' Preference Statement | The University of South Carolina is committed to equal opportunity and proudly values the skills and experience military veterans bring to our workforce. Across South Carolina, we are making veterans a priority for employment and recognize their vital contributions to our state and our communities.
Veterans' Preference Statement | The University of South Carolina is committed to equal opportunity and proudly values the skills and experience military veterans bring to our workforce. Across South Carolina, we are making veterans a priority for employment and recognize their vital contributions to our state and our communities.
Benefits for FTE Positions
The University of South Carolina (USC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about USC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at https://uscjobs.sc.edu. Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.
Position Description
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.
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
Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience | Requires a bachelor’s degree in a job related field and at least 8 years of job related experience, including some prior management experience.
Required Certification, Licensure/Other Credentials |
Preferred Qualifications | · 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
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.
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
Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience | Requires a bachelor’s degree in a job related field and at least 8 years of job related experience, including some prior management experience.
Required Certification, Licensure/Other Credentials |
Preferred Qualifications | · 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 Duties
Job Duty | Strategic Planning and Coordination· Lead the development and implementation of system-wide strategic initiatives in partnership with institutional leaders· Facilitate strategic planning processes that align institutional goals with system-wide priorities· Coordinate cross-institutional working groups and task forces on key strategic initiatives· Develop and maintain strategic frameworks for evaluating new programs, partnerships, and initiatives· Monitor progress on strategic goals and provide regular updates to system and institutional leadership· Identify emerging trends and opportunities in higher education that could benefit the USC System
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 40Job Duty | Process Improvement and Operational Excellence· Conduct comprehensive analysis of system-wide operations to identify opportunities for increased efficiency and effectiveness· Design and implement process improvements that reduce redundancy and enhance coordination· Develop and manage project plans for complex, multi-institutional initiatives· Create frameworks for shared services and collaborative programs across institutions· Establish best practices for cross-institutional collaboration and resource sharing· Lead continuous improvement initiatives that optimize system performance
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 30Job Duty | Data Analysis and Performance Management· Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) for system-wide initiatives· Analyze institutional and system-level data to inform strategic decision-making· Create dashboards and reporting mechanisms to track progress on strategic priorities· Conduct benchmarking studies comparing USC System performance to peer institutions· Prepare data-driven reports and presentations for system leadership and governance bodies· Support evidence-based decision-making through rigorous analysis and evaluation
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 20Job Duty | Cross-Institutional Relationship Management· Serve as primary liaison between the System Office and institutional leadership on strategic initiatives· Build and maintain strong working relationships with administrators, faculty, and staff across all institutions· Facilitate communication and information sharing among institutions· Coordinate system-wide meetings, convenings, and professional development opportunities· Support the Vice President for System Affairs in stakeholder engagement activities· Represent the System Office in institutional and external meetings as appropriate
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 10
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 40Job Duty | Process Improvement and Operational Excellence· Conduct comprehensive analysis of system-wide operations to identify opportunities for increased efficiency and effectiveness· Design and implement process improvements that reduce redundancy and enhance coordination· Develop and manage project plans for complex, multi-institutional initiatives· Create frameworks for shared services and collaborative programs across institutions· Establish best practices for cross-institutional collaboration and resource sharing· Lead continuous improvement initiatives that optimize system performance
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 30Job Duty | Data Analysis and Performance Management· Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) for system-wide initiatives· Analyze institutional and system-level data to inform strategic decision-making· Create dashboards and reporting mechanisms to track progress on strategic priorities· Conduct benchmarking studies comparing USC System performance to peer institutions· Prepare data-driven reports and presentations for system leadership and governance bodies· Support evidence-based decision-making through rigorous analysis and evaluation
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 20Job Duty | Cross-Institutional Relationship Management· Serve as primary liaison between the System Office and institutional leadership on strategic initiatives· Build and maintain strong working relationships with administrators, faculty, and staff across all institutions· Facilitate communication and information sharing among institutions· Coordinate system-wide meetings, convenings, and professional development opportunities· Support the Vice President for System Affairs in stakeholder engagement activities· Represent the System Office in institutional and external meetings as appropriate
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 10
Position Attributes
Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing.
Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing.
Safety Sensitive or Security Sensitive | No
Hazardous weather category | Non-Essential
Hazardous weather category | Non-Essential
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies | 1
Desired Start Date |
Job Open Date | 12/19/2025
Job Close Date | 01/18/2026
Open Until Filled | No
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.
Quicklink for Posting | https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/200384
EEO Statement | The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.
Desired Start Date |
Job Open Date | 12/19/2025
Job Close Date | 01/18/2026
Open Until Filled | No
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.
Quicklink for Posting | https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/200384
EEO Statement | The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
- * Do you have at least a bachelor’s degree in a job related field and at least 8 years of job related experience, including some prior management experience?
- Yes
- No
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
- Cover Letter
- Resume
- List of References and Contact Information
Optional Documents
Similar Jobs
Coordinator of College and Career Readiness (30 Hours/Week)
Washtenaw Community College
🇺🇸 Remote - US
Assistant To Director-Fixed Term
Michigan State University
🇺🇸 East Lansing, MI
Director I-Fixed-Acad Staff
Michigan State University
🇺🇸 East Lansing, MI
Senior Career Coach
George Washington University
🇺🇸 Hybrid - Washington, DC
Administrative Coordinator I (Gen Admin Supv I/Coord I)
Laurel Ridge Community College
🇺🇸 Remote - US
