Position Title: Chief of Staff

Employee Classification: Chief of Staff,Chancellor

College/Division: President's Office

Department: 100001-PRESIDENT'S OFFICE

Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants

Location: Las Cruces

Offsite Location (if applicable):

Target Hourly/Salary Rate:  $149,743.28 - $247,076.63, commensurate with qualifications

Appointment Full-time Equivalency:  1.0

Exempt or Non-Exempt:  Exempt

Summary:  New Mexico State University is looking for the next President’s Chief of Staff. Come and be a part of the exciting future of NMSU.

Classification Summary:
Serves as a member of the President's senior staff, reporting directly to the President, providing confidential executive-level support to the President. Serves as a chief aide to the President and as such, serves at the will of the President. Responsible for a broad and complex set of assignments related to the duties of the President of the University System. Responsible for the oversight of all operational, administrative, and financial matters specific to the management of that office. Handles matters of institutional importance on behalf of the President and the University.

Classification Standard Duties:
Advises the President on policy, procedural and operational issues of the system, and is charged with leading the operationalization of strategic initiatives for the President. Represents the President to senior vice presidents, campus officials, and critical external constituents. Participates with the President and other senior officials in strategy development, institutional planning, policy development, and problem resolution. Coordinates special projects on behalf of the President, frequently involving senior officers of the University, and influential stakeholders external to the University. Serves as the President's first line of contact with regard to University initiatives and requests. Write confidential reports and prepare executive summaries and correspondence. Responds to routine inquires as delegated by the President. Assists with the coordination of activities for the President's office in conjunction with other departments. Management of invitations/requests for the President to include oversight of all travel and itineraries. Manages the President's calendar and activities. May be authorized to sign on President's behalf such as letters, contracts, and specified agreements. This position will have direct oversight of several departments, including Marketing and Communications, Public Safety, Government Relations, the Physical Sciences Lab, and University Flight Operations. May serve or chair committees, as required.

Required Education, Experience, Certification/License, Equivalency
Required Education: Master's degree in Business or related technical field.; Required Experience: Fifteen (15) years of increasingly progressive management experience in one or more areas that report to this position; or, ten (10) years as a senior executive in business or a research management environment.; Equivalency: Any equivalent combination of experience and education.; Required Certification/License:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
KNOWLEDGE: and understanding of principles, procedures, regulations, and standards applicable to the job. Understanding of the System's mission, vision and goals.; SKILLS: Short- and long-term strategy development and planning; problem analysis and resolution; report preparation and presentation; interpersonal and organizational communication, both oral and written.; ABILITIES: Develop and maintain effective working relationships; maintain accurate and orderly records; use independent judgment and initiative; organize and direct activities.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
The Chief of Staff serves as the President's right hand, acting as a trusted advisor and confidante while playing a critical role in advancing the University's mission. This individual will be a highly effective leader with a deep understanding of the higher education landscape and exceptional communication skills, capable of building consensus and fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders. The Chief of Staff will oversee the efficient operation of the President's office, manage the President's calendar and activities, and represent the President both internally and externally.

A key responsibility of this position is to lead the implementation of the University's strategic plan, working closely with the President and senior leadership to operationalize key initiatives and monitor progress toward institutional goals. The Chief of Staff will also direct oversight to designated departments, ensuring alignment with the University's overall strategic direction. This role requires strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as the Chief of Staff will be responsible for conducting research, analyzing complex issues, and providing recommendations to the President on a wide range of topics.

The ideal candidate will possess a Master's degree in a relevant field and at least ten years of senior executive leadership. A successful Chief of Staff will be a highly organized and detail-oriented individual with a demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. They will have a proven track record of success in building relationships, managing teams, and driving results within a complex organization.

Preferred Qualifications

Special Requirements of the Position

Department Contact:  Vicki Haggard, 575-646-3587

Contingent Upon Funding: Not Applicable

Bargaining Unit Eligibility: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Standard Work Schedule: Shift: Other Shift

If Not a Standard Work Schedule: This position requires a high degree of flexibility and the ability to work long hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment: Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.

Physical Effort: No or very limited physical effort required.

Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 10 pounds or some standing or walking.

Risk: No or very limited exposure to physical risk.