Director of Administrative Operations supports the President and CEO of the Diaspora Human Genomics Institute (DHGI),in providing financial, and operational oversight to support the Institutes international research program Together for CHANGE, interdisciplinary research, educational, and community engagement missions. Collaborating closely with the Institute Director, DHGI Board of Directors, Biopharmaceutical partners, Meharry Medical College faculty, this role advances the Institutes programs.
The Director of Administrative Operations is responsible for managing core financial administrative functions including budgeting, grants and contracts. This position is integral to fostering inclusive excellence, supporting DHGI, and building a sustainable institute infrastructure.
Essential Functions (Principal Duties and Job Responsibilities):
Executive Administrative Support
- Provide comprehensive administrative support to the Institute Director, including calendar management, meeting coordination, travel arrangements, and correspondence.
- Assist in preparing presentations, reports, and institutional communications.
- Act as liaison between the Institute Director and key institutional and community stakeholders.
Center Faculty and Student Support and DHGI Community Engagement
- Coordinate and support Center for Bioethics, Social and Behavioral Research faculty initiatives related to bioethics, health equity, and social and behavioral research.
- Assist in planning and executing seminars, workshops, fellowships, and mentorship programs for students and trainees.
- Collaborate with faculty and student services to enhance diversity and representation across Center activities.
- Provide leadership in the development of the DHGI local and national community engagement program.
Strategic & Operational Leadership
- Serve as the chief administrative advisor to the Institute Director on financial planning, resource allocation, and financial program development.
- Oversee daily operations ensuring efficiency, compliance, and alignment with institutional priorities.
- Coordinate cross-institutional initiatives and research collaborations.
Financial Management & Research Administration
- Develop and manage the Center’s operating budget, encompassing internal funds, grants, contracts, and philanthropic contributions.
- Oversee pre- and post-award grant management in partnership with the Office of Sponsored Programs.
- Monitor expenditures, ensure regulatory compliance, and deliver accurate financial reporting and forecasting.
Human Resources & Personnel Management
- Support recruitment, onboarding, and supervision of administrative and support staff.
- Assist with faculty and research personnel appointments, effort reporting, and performance evaluations.
- Promote a collaborative and mission-driven workplace culture.
Program and Academic Support
- Provide administrative support for educational offerings, fellowships, and public events.
- Coordinate logistics for conferences, speaker series, and community outreach programs.
- Ensure documentation, reporting, and compliance for academic and research initiatives.
Communications & External Relations
- Support the development and execution of communication strategies, including digital content, newsletters, and outreach materials.
- Collaborate with Institutional Advancement on donor stewardship and development efforts.
- Act as the DHGI and Center’s liaison with internal departments and external partners.
- Support the building of partnerships with funders including corporations, foundations, philanthropists, state and government agencies
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
- Knowledge of financial management, grant administration, and human resources practices in an academic or nonprofit setting.
- Ability to interpret and apply institutional policies, sponsor guidelines, and compliance requirements.
- Skilled in using Microsoft Office Suite.
- Contract management systems.
- Financial management systems.
- Grant management systems.
- Excellent organizational and project management skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively with faculty, students, staff, and community partners.
- High level of discretion and professionalism when handling sensitive or confidential matters.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities Preferred:
Education and Experience Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Social Sciences, Public Health, Education, or related field (Master’s preferred).
- Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in academic administration, research operations, or program management.
- Proven expertise in financial management, student programming, and inclusive administrative practices.
- Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
- Experience supporting cross-disciplinary academic or research centers.
Education and Experience Preferred:
- Master’s degree (e.g., MPA, MSP, MPH, MBA, MSW, or related).
- Experience in centers focused on research, and grant funding
- Familiarity with industry and corporate sponsorship, NIH, HRSA, or other federal grant administration.
- Demonstrated commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in academic settings.
Licensure, Certification or Registration Required:
Licensure, Certification or Registration Preferred:
This job description reflects the general duties and responsibilities necessary to describe the principal functions of the job, as identified, and shall not be considered an exhaustive list of job responsibilities which may be inherent in the job. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. The responsibilities listed may be subject to change at any time and individuals may be asked to perform duties outside of their regular responsibilities to support the ongoing operations and mission Meharry Medical College and its facilities.