The University of Pennsylvania (Penn), the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a global leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top universities in the world. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer, Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America’s Best Employers By State in 2021. Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The university is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.
THE POSITION
Reporting to the senior executive vice president, the vice president of business services (VPBS) is responsible for the strategic direction and operational oversight of Penn's auxiliary enterprises and service centers. The division of business services includes Penn's student housing, dining and conference services, parking, commuter benefits, transportation, mail operations, university bookstore and identification center, child-care center, home mortgage program, and the Morris Arboretum and Gardens. In addition, the position oversees the operation of two university-owned hotels. The vice president manages an annual budget of over $150 million and provides leadership for 450 regular university staff and over 500 seasonal and contracted employees.
QUALIFICATIONS
A master’s degree in business administration or a related field and at least seven years of progressively responsible senior leadership experience in higher education business or auxiliary services, or a position of comparable complexity in academia, government, the non-profit sector, or the private sector, are required. The ideal candidate will possess a record of recruiting, developing, and managing diverse and talented staff through effective leadership and expert mentoring; demonstrated ability in navigating complex, decentralized organizations and achieving business results across a diverse portfolio; demonstrated business, finance, and operations experience and previous responsibility for advancing large capital projects; and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all its forms.
APPLICATION AND NOMINATION
Review of applications will begin December 8, 2023, and continue until the position is filled. A resume with an accompanying cover letter may be submitted via the Spelman Johnson website at www.spelmanjohnson.com/open-positions. Nominations for this position may be emailed to Mark Hall at mah@spelmanjohnson.com. Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895 or email info@spelmanjohnson.com.
The anticipated hiring range is $340,000-$380,000 annually, commensurate with education and experience.
Visit the University of Pennsylvania website at www.upenn.edu
Penn adheres to a policy that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected class.