Student Affairs Operations Manager

Student Affairs Operations Manager

The Student Affairs Operations Manager oversees the implementation and management of key student services at the Oakland campus, ensuring efficient operations and alignment with institutional standards. Core responsibilities include supervising front desk and phone support, testing center operations, student compliance, basic needs services, and student communications. Additionally, the role provides administrative support to the Dean of Students Office, Disability Resource Center, and Veterans Resource Center, assisting with key operations such as student outreach, records management, accounting procedures, and procurement. The Student Affairs Operations Manager serves as a liaison to external call center partners and collaborates with internal SMU departments to address student inquiries. The position represents the campus in meetings, supports institutional research efforts, and assesses service effectiveness through data analysis.

Responsibilities include facilitating and managing the implementation of student services functions of the Oakland campus, ensuring efficient service delivery and adherence to institutional standards. The position also manages human resources functions of SMU Central, provides administrative support to various offices, and establishes, oversees, and evaluates operational and office procedures and policy formulation to improve efficiency and outcomes.

Skills and abilities include extensive computer experience, demonstrated ability to utilize complex database systems, ability to analyze complex data sets, ability to handle privileged information and exercise good judgment, and superior communication skills.

Education and experience requirements include a baccalaureate degree required; master's preferred in areas related to scope of work. Five or more years of experience in human resources, student affairs/services, operations management, administration, higher education or a closely related field. Substantive leadership and management experience preferably in a health care setting or institution of higher education.

This is primarily an in-person role based in Oakland, CA. Occasional remote work may be permitted during slower academic periods or when operational needs allow. Must be able to bend, lift, and move both upper and lower body. Requires the ability to lift up to 10 pounds and perform activities such as carrying, pushing, pulling, climbing, kneeling, and stooping.