The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace; it is 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!

The Managing Director of the Global Catholicism Initiative is part of a select group of faculty and staff charged by the provost to launch the academic initiatives of the University’s strategic framework. The managing director will work with the faculty director to coordinate, build upon, and magnify the impact of research and programs across colleges and schools, with a goal of making Notre Dame the global leader in the study of Catholicism. The initiative will support scholarly excellence, spearhead individual and collaborative research projects, develop partnerships with external partner institutions and networks, pursue funding opportunities to support initiative priorities, and convene high-profile meetings that leaders in Global Catholicism to Notre Dame’s campus and its international centers. The managing director plays a critical leadership role in driving the Global Catholicism Initiative by partnering with the faculty director to build a strategic vision for the initiative, liaising between key stakeholders (the Provost’s Office, Department of Development, University Communications, department/college/school leadership, etc.), organizing and coordinating key initiative activities, leading initiative staff, helping identify possible areas of federal, foundational, and corporate research support, and serving as a thought partner for the initiative director. The managing director will report to the initiative director, providing strategic and operational support.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning, Operations, and Budget - 40%

Act as a thought partner to the initiative director to create and execute a strategic plan for the Global Catholicism Initiative. Design and execute an operations and organizational plan for the initiative. Oversee the development and execution of the initiative’s operating budget, financial forecasting, and financial reporting. Supervise and manage initiative staff. Support the initiative director in organizing and spearheading new efforts related to Global Catholicism 

Liaising and Communications - 20%

Oversee internal and external initiative communications, working closely with the Office of the Provost and University Communications. Work with the initiative director to design and execute an effective communication strategy. Oversee project development efforts. Build and maintain relationships with key internal partners including deans, department chairs, center and institute directors, and members of the Office of the Provost. Build crucial external partners networks with universities and Catholic organizations at the local, national, and international level.

Development, Stewardship, and Reporting - 20% 

Collaborate with the Department of Development and other University partners to raise and steward funds to support the initiative priorities. The Department of Development will be responsible for direct solicitation and management of cultivation strategies, working closely with the initiative director and managing director. Oversee the stewardship of financial resources, as well as internal and external reporting on the work and progress of the initiative 

Programming and Events - 20%

Design an event strategy to advance initiative goals, with convenings playing an important role of establishing Notre Dame’s leadership. Work closely with University Events and Enterprises on the design and execution of those events and build audiences among Notre Dame’s faculty, staff, students, and external partners 

The University of Notre Dame is proud to be ranked #1 on the Forbes Best Large Employer list, a recognition that reflects our commitment to creating a workplace where you’ll feel welcomed, supported, and truly valued as part of our beloved community.

Education Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree (5 years); Master’s degree or advanced certification beyond Bachelor’s preferred

Experience: 5 to 6 years

• Bachelor’s degree
• 5+ years of experience in project management-related positions
• Demonstrated project management experience; experience working in a research organization, the non-profit sector, or other Catholic Church-related institution.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Advanced writing and presentation skills for communicating strategic initiatives
• Ability to independently research issues, identify solutions, and facilitate implementation of solutions. Trustworthiness and integrity in managing important relationships and confidential information.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A master’s or advanced degree is preferred
• Knowledge of Notre Dame systems and software
• Understanding of university operations and strategic priorities
• Experience with a global and/or Catholic organization This role will require knowledge of common principles, best practices, ever-growing technological skills, and standard administrative procedures in order to successfully complete complex projects. Must be able to successfully identify hard-to-define problems, strategically create possible solutions, and take appropriate action to resolve issues as they arise.

Salary Range: $110,000 - $140,000 Commensurate with experience

Position Closing Date: 9/8/2025

At Notre Dame, we know our impact depends on exceptional people, people like you. We are committed to fostering a vibrant, welcoming community. In keeping with our mission, we encourage applications from all who will help build and strengthen our beloved community. We strive to empower every employee to flourish, knowing your success propels Notre Dame to new heights of impact.