Chief Administrative Officer - Graduate School of Education

Job Purpose

The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) provides strategic, administrative, operational, financial, and organizational leadership for the School. The position ensures effective management of administrative operations, financial planning, human resources processes, strategic initiatives, partnerships, research support, and compliance with University policies and procedures. The CAO serves as a key advisor to the Dean and facilitates efficient coordination between the School, University administrative units, and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Planning

• Participate in the development and implementation of the School’s strategic and operational objectives in alignment with the University’s mission and priorities.
• Contribute to the development of long-term and short-term plans, goals, policies, and programs of the School.
• Support the Dean in achieving the School’s strategic goals and institutional priorities.

Administrative and Operational Management

• Plan, organize, and oversee the administrative and operational activities of the School.
• Provide overall leadership and management of the School’s administrative staff.
• Establish performance objectives for administrative personnel and monitor the quality, timeliness, and effectiveness of work performance.
• Ensure compliance with labor discipline and University policies.
• Approve and evaluate Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for administrative staff.
• Approve Individual Development Plans (IDPs) and support continuous professional development of employees.
• Coordinate and oversee administrative support for School projects, programs, and events.

Financial Management and Budget Oversight

• Lead the planning, development, implementation, monitoring, and execution of the School’s budget.
• Ensure compliance with University financial regulations, procedures, and internal controls.
• Monitor efficient utilization of financial resources and provide recommendations for budget optimization.
• Oversee the management and control of fixed assets and consumable resources assigned to the School.

Human Resources and Talent Management

• Coordinate and oversee recruitment and selection processes for administrative staff.
• Assist the Dean in recruitment and selection activities related to faculty and staff positions.

Partnerships and Stakeholder Relations

• Support development and maintenance of strategic partnerships with local and international organizations.
• Participate in negotiations and preparation of agreements with domestic and international partners.
• Assist the Dean in maintaining effective collaboration and communication with Schools, administrative divisions, and partner institutions.

Academic and Research Support

• Support implementation of best practices in teaching, learning, and student success by identifying and facilitating access to appropriate resources.
• Coordinate administrative aspects of research initiatives and projects in collaboration with the Dean and Vice Dean for Research.

Quality Assurance and Risk Management

• Participate in identification, assessment, mitigation, management, and monitoring of risks within the areas under supervision.
• Ensure compliance with applicable University policies, procedures, and governance requirements.