Chief of Staff to the President

About the Organization

Kansas State University (K-State) is seeking nominations and applications for the position of Chief of Staff to the President. In this role, you will work directly with President Richard Linton as a trusted advisor and operational partner to move key institutional priorities forward, improve coordination across the university, and help ensure presidential initiatives are executed effectively.

Role Overview

Based in Manhattan, Kansas, this position sits close to the center of university leadership. The Chief of Staff helps turn presidential strategy into action, making sure the President’s time and influence are focused on the areas that will create the greatest impact for the institution.

The role involves advising on complex matters, identifying emerging challenges and opportunities, and preparing the President for meaningful engagement in a variety of internal and external settings. It also requires working across senior leadership to build alignment, maintain momentum, and ensure commitments and priorities are followed through.

In addition, the Chief of Staff will manage special initiatives and projects for the President, adding structure, accountability, and progress to efforts that involve multiple departments and stakeholders. The position is also an important link between the President and the wider university and external community.

This includes helping strengthen relationships with faculty, staff, students, governing bodies, community partners, and public officials, and representing the President when needed.

Kansas State University describes this as a significant opportunity during a period of continued growth, rising national visibility, and ongoing development of the Chief of Staff function in a collaborative, fast-moving leadership environment.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the President’s senior advisor and close operational partner.
• Help convert presidential priorities into coordinated action across the institution.
• Protect and focus the President’s time, attention, and influence on high-value opportunities.
• Advise on complex, sensitive, and confidential matters.
• Anticipate upcoming issues, risks, and opportunities.
• Prepare the President for engagements with internal and external audiences.
• Coordinate with senior leaders to promote alignment and follow-through.
• Lead and organize special projects and presidential initiatives.
• Bring accountability, structure, and momentum to multi-unit efforts.
• Strengthen communication and relationships with university and external stakeholders.
• Represent the President as appropriate.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree is required.
• At least 10 years of experience in senior-level strategic, operational, and advisory support.
• Proven experience supporting executive leadership.
• Experience managing complex initiatives and coordinating across multiple leaders or departments.
• Strong judgment when handling sensitive or confidential information.

Additional Information

Location: Manhattan, KS

Posted date: 6/26/26

Application deadline: 8/1/26

Organization: Kansas State University

This role is a full-time onsite position.

Further details about the position are available in the official position document.

Application instructions were provided by the employer.