Chief of Staff to the Provost

About Western Washington University

Located in Bellingham, Washington, Western Washington University serves over 15,000 students across seven colleges and a graduate school. Nationally recognized for academic excellence for 25 consecutive years by U.S. News & World Report, the university emphasizes transformative education grounded in liberal arts and sciences, innovative scholarship, research, and creative activity. The inclusive campus environment supports all community members, encouraging productivity among staff, faculty, students, and external partners. Sustainability principles are embedded in all job functions.

Department Overview

The Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs division leads Western's mission to positively impact the state and global communities by focusing on academic excellence and inclusive success. The division encourages diverse candidates and supports inclusive governance structures.

Position Summary

The Chief of Staff to the Provost is a senior leadership role that advances strategic and operational priorities for Academic Affairs. Reporting directly to the Provost, this position collaborates closely with vice provosts, deans, faculty, and administrators to ensure cross-unit alignment, support priority implementation, and oversee special projects and institutional initiatives. The Chief of Staff also directs the university's accreditation activities, ensuring compliance and effective reporting.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise the Provost on divisional priorities and emerging issues.
• Lead strategic projects by tracking progress and resolving barriers in collaboration with stakeholders.
• Foster communication, collaboration, and change management across academic and administrative units.
• Conduct research and prepare materials for executive decision-making.
• Represent the Provost in meetings and committees as required.
• Manage operational workflows within the Office of the Provost.
• Organize leadership meetings and retreats, ensuring implementation of actions.
• Monitor and report progress on initiatives to support accountability.
• Develop policies, procedures, and operational practices.
• Handle sensitive matters with discretion and professionalism.
• Coordinate institutional accreditation processes including reporting, compliance, and reaffirmation with the NWCCU and other bodies.
• Collaborate with units to support accreditation standards, assessments, and continuous improvements.
• Lead accreditation teams to prepare necessary documentation and reports.
• Develop strategies for communicating accreditation expectations institution-wide.
• Stay informed on accreditation and higher education policy developments and advise the Provost accordingly.
• Promote effective engagement with faculty governance, staff leadership, and campus partners.
• Prepare materials for the Board of Trustees and university leadership.
• Facilitate multi-divisional initiatives and enhance transparency and collaboration across Academic Affairs and governance groups.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Progressive experience in higher education, public administration, government, or similarly complex environments.
• Track record of partnering with senior leadership on strategic priorities and complex, cross-functional initiatives.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and collaborate effectively.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proven sound judgment, discretion, and professionalism.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in higher education, public administration, organizational leadership, or related field.
• Experience in Academic Affairs leadership or working within a provost’s office.
• Familiarity with institutional accreditation, assessment, compliance, and effectiveness efforts.
• Certification such as Peer Evaluation Training for NWCCU or equivalent.
• Expertise in change management and institutional strategic planning.
• Experience navigating shared governance environments.
• Skill in cross-functional collaboration across university operations and strategy.
• Capability in preparing executive-level communications and reports.

Conditions of Employment

All employees must comply with university immunization policies, including proof of measles immunity within 60 days of hire. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request. A comprehensive background check, including a sexual misconduct screen, is mandatory before employment.

Compensation and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $153,776 to $176,842 annually based on qualifications and experience, with a maximum pay of $199,909 through longevity. The position includes administrative professional benefits.

Additional Information

The university is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. Applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, references, and a separate equity and inclusion statement that demonstrates commitment to creating equitable learning and working environments. Review of applications begins August 11, 2026, and continues until the position is filled.

The university complies with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act by providing annual security and fire safety reports upon request.