Job Description

Company Description

The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace! We are a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University’s mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you!

LEO is seeking a highly organized and proactive Assistant Director of Executive Operations to provide comprehensive executive-level support to LEO’s senior leadership and facilitate operational excellence across the organization. This role is integral in supporting LEO's strategic initiatives and ensuring efficient coordination among executive leaders, stakeholders, and board members.

Who we are

The Wilson Sheehan Lab for Economic Opportunities (LEO) at the University of Notre Dame is a research center dedicated to reducing poverty by partnering with service providers to conduct rigorous impact evaluations. LEO’s mission is to improve lives through evidence-based programs and policies, empowering decision-makers with data that drives lasting social change.

Who we need

The Assistant Director will serve as a key liaison, trusted administrative partner, and project coordinator for a wide range of high-level activities. This role requires exceptional communication skills, keen attention to detail, and the ability to anticipate and respond to the dynamic needs of a fast-paced, mission-driven research organization.

The Assistant Director of Executive Operations’ top priorities will be

Executive Partnership & Strategic Support

• Serve as a strategic partner to the Managing Director, Associate Director of LEO, and Director of the Poverty Initiative, anticipating needs and aligning executive support with organizational priorities.
• Oversee complex calendars and travel with an eye toward advancing strategic objectives and optimizing leadership capacity.
• Draft, refine, and manage high-impact correspondence, presentations, and briefing materials that support decision-making and external engagement.
• Design and facilitate executive meetings, including shaping agendas, curating materials, and guiding post-meeting follow-through to drive results.
• Represent LEO leadership with internal and external stakeholders, cultivating relationships that enhance the organization’s reach and influence.

Senior Team Operations & Integration 

• Orchestrate operations across LEO’s senior team, streamlining communication, workflows, and resource allocation to support high-priority initiatives.
• Lead the planning and execution of leadership offsites, retreats, and other strategic gatherings, ensuring clarity of purpose and measurable outcomes. Identify content and strategic priorities to be addressed.
• Develop and maintain systems that enable collaboration, accountability, and operational excellence across the leadership team.

Advisory Board Strategy & Engagement

• Partner with senior leadership to shape the Advisory Board’s engagement strategy, strengthening alignment between Board expertise and organizational goals.
• Oversee logistics, agendas, and materials for Board meetings to ensure productive dialogue and actionable guidance.
• Maintain proactive communication with Board members, deepening relationships and fostering an environment of informed partnership.

Strategic Metrics & Organizational Performance

• Establish and monitor key performance indicators, providing leadership with data-driven insights to guide strategic decision-making.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required.   
• Minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience in executive support, operations, or administrative leadership. 

Required

• Deep commitment to the mission and values of both LEO and the University.
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines. 
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities. 
• Demonstrated discretion and ability to handle sensitive and confidential information. 
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and calendar management tools. 
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. 

Preferred

• Experience in an academic or nonprofit environment. 
• Knowledge of project management tools and platforms.

Application Deadline to Apply: October 3, 2025

Hiring Pay Range: Up to $70,000, commensurate with experience

For Full Consideration: Upload Resume and Cover Letter

Location: This position is located in South Bend, IN and it is strongly preferred for candidates to be available to work 5 days in the office. Applicants outside of South Bend may be considered, provided they are available to work on campus 3 days per week.

Term: This is a four-year, limited-term position. Contingent on funding, the position may be extended.