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 University of Notre Dame du Lac seeks an Executive Director in Notre Dame, Indiana. This position does not require travel.

15% Operations Management: In consultation with the leadership team, oversees the implementation of Institute operations, allocates resources, and creates internal procedures, structures, and processes to facilitate Institute goals and objectives, in compliance with the University's mission, policies, and best practices. Oversees operational processes and identifies opportunities for process improvement. Oversees and supports the Institute's program areas, Chairs the work of the Faculty Grants Committee, per Institute bylaws. Working with the Research Program Manager, oversees award administration for Institute internal grants to faculty fellows and intramural grants to other University units. Working with the Communications Manager and the Senior Events Program Manager, oversees Institute marketing and communication efforts, including communication strategy, and events planning.

30% Strategic Management: Contributes to strategy and academic programming of the Institute in concert with the Institute's senior leadership team. Works with the Director and leadership team to develop and implement the short- and long-term strategies, goals and action plans required to achieve Kellogg's vision. Provides strategic and operational leadership to support Kellogg faculty and staff. Serves as ex-officio member of the Kellogg Faculty Committee, the internal advisory body of the Kellogg Institute. Strengthens the Institute's integration within the Keough School by facilitating collaboration with other constitutive units and supporting School-wide coordination efforts led by the Dean's Office on business management, communications, and event planning. Collaborates with the Keough School's Academic Advancement Director to promote the Institute's funding priorities with fundraisers and benefactors. Working with the Director and the Institutional Relations and Metrics Program Manager, articulates relationships with the Institute Advisory Board, cultivating a donor base and implementing development strategies.

15% Financial and Human Resources Management: Working closely with the Institute's Assistant Director for Finance and Administration on financial management of the Institute, the annual budget planning process, tracking and reporting of expenditures, and stewardship of Institute endowment funds, gifts and grants. Collaborates with Assistant Director for Finance and Administration on project planning, budgeting, resource allocation, implementation, financial administration, and reporting for externally funded projects. The Executive Director provides support and guidance in promoting ongoing professional development. This position works closely with the Institute staff to ensure excellence, collaboration across teams, and achievement of overall Institute goals. Provides for all staff a strong day-to-day leadership presence. Promotes a culture of respect and helps build a strong sense of community and fairness among Kellogg staff. Maintains continuous lines of communication, keeping the Director informed of all critical issues. Provides effective and inspiring operational leadership to the work of the Institute by developing a broad and deep knowledge of all programs.

40% Institute Relations: Serves as the primary contact for faculty fellows, helping to connect their research across disciplines, and engaging them in a way that helps to promote the faculty and the Institute's research agenda. Offers guidance to Faculty Fellows regarding Kellogg-funded research, projects, initiatives, conferences and academic events, invited speakers, and working groups. Provides orientation for new Fellows and facilitates engagement of Kellogg faculty, ensuring they are fully aware of opportunities for involvement.

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MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: 

Master's Degree in Political Science or related field of study and seven (7) years of experience in a related occupation.

Experience must include: 5 years of experience with programs that have international dimensions and scope at an education institution; 5 years of experience in academia and research at an education institution; 5 years of project management experience at an education institution; 5 years of experience managing budgets and financial resources at an education institution.

CONTACT: Applicants interested in this position should contact Pam Byrne at [email protected] referencing this position and notice.

This position does not require travel.

If offered employment, must have legal right to work in U.S.

Deadline for applications will be March 30, 2026.

The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or age in employment. Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and complies with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). We strongly encourage applications from candidates attracted to a university with a Catholic identity.