TBR | The College System of Tennessee

Title: Chief of Staff

Institution: Volunteer State Community College

Job Summary:

The Chief of Staff (CoS) is a key strategic partner and advisor to the President, providing vital support in the planning, execution, and communication of institutional priorities. This role serves as a connector and facilitator across divisions and departments, ensuring that the College’s strategic goals are pursued cohesively, transparently, and with maximum impact. The CoS will enhance the President’s effectiveness by streamlining operations, aligning cross-functional teams, and driving initiatives to build a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous growth.

Job Duties:

Funding Metrics and Program Development: Work closely with the Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR), regional stakeholders, and industry partners to develop programs that align with state and local industry needs, enhancing workforce readiness and job placement outcomes. Collaborate on initiatives to meet the funding metric goals of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) funding formula, ensuring Vol State maximizes funding opportunities through student success and completion metrics. Foster partnerships with the Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology (TCATs) and four-year institutions to build and strengthen articulation agreements, providing students with clear pathways for transfer and career advancement. Communication and Transparency: Develop and implement a communication strategy that fosters transparency and regular updates across the College community. Draft communications on behalf of the President and ensure messaging is aligned with college priorities and values. Serve as a central resource for providing updates and ensuring the College community is informed about institutional goals, initiatives, and outcomes. Strategic Planning and Execution: Collaborate with the President and leadership team to develop and monitor strategic goals, ensuring alignment with Volunteer State’s mission, vision, and annual objectives. Facilitate and oversee the planning and implementation of projects across divisions, identifying opportunities for improvement and ensuring project timelines and objectives are met. Act as a liaison between the President’s office and departments to advance key institutional priorities, track progress, and evaluate outcomes. Internal Planning and Cross-Departmental Alignment: Lead initiatives to enhance cross-departmental collaboration, aligning efforts and resources to meet strategic and operational goals. Create and maintain frameworks for tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) and reporting on progress across projects and departments. Coordinate and prepare materials for leadership meetings and strategic reviews. Work with each division to support the overall mission and vision and provide updates on best practices and projects. Professional Development and Growth Initiatives: Partner with Human Resources (HR) to design and implement training and professional development programs that support the growth of faculty, staff, and leadership at Volunteer State. Oversee initiatives for onboarding new employees, ensuring they receive a comprehensive introduction to the College’s values, goals, and strategic plans. Foster a culture of continuous improvement by collaborating with HR on training and development opportunities that align with institutional needs and employee feedback. Presidential Support and Operational Efficiency: Ensure the President is kept up to date on developments across the College, providing relevant context and insights to aid in strategic decision-making. Identify opportunities for improvement, ensuring proactive solutions that align with the College’s mission and the President’s vision. Additional Responsibilities: Assist in identifying and working with senior leadership in removing barriers to effective internal operations, ensuring that College processes are optimized for efficiency and innovation. Represent the President in selected meetings and events, acting as a spokesperson when appropriate and embodying the values and mission of the College. Lead special projects as assigned by the President, with a focus on continuous institutional growth, stakeholder engagement, and community impact. Other duties as assigned. 

Minimum Qualifications:

Master’s degree.
Seven years in a senior administrative, strategic, or advisory role.

Preferred Qualifications:

Master’s degree in higher education administration, business administration, public administration, communications, or a related field.
Experience within a higher education setting.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Proven ability to manage complex projects, balance multiple priorities, and deliver results.
Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to draft and present information in a clear and compelling way.
Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative mindset, with a talent for building relationships across various teams and departments.
High degree of discretion, integrity, and professionalism.
Demonstrated experience in process improvement, strategic planning, and team development.
Strategic Vision: Ability to understand and articulate the broader mission and goals of the College and ensure alignment in all projects and initiatives.
Problem-Solving: Ability to anticipate challenges and proactively recommend solutions to advance institutional priorities.
Leadership: Capability to inspire, guide, and influence others, fostering an environment of teamwork, accountability, and shared purpose.
Excellent computer skills, including knowledge and use of Enterprise Resources Planning systems.
Must be a willing advocate of the mission of the college.

Pay Rate: $75,057 - $93,821 annual salary depending on experience

Volunteer State offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to the following:

• Insurance:  Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability (long and short term), FSA/HSA
• Wellness Incentive Program (if enrolled in Health)
• Educational Assistance:  Fee Waiver, Spouse/Dependent Discounts, Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program
• Longevity Pay
• Retirement Options:  State of TN Pension (TCRS), 401a, 401K with up to $50/month match, 403b, and 457
• 14 Paid Holidays/Year
• Annual Leave (if applicable)
• Sick Leave
• Sick Leave Bank
• State Employee Discount Program with over 900 merchants

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for the application process. Official transcripts will be required upon hire.

Applicants may be subject to a background check.