Vanderbilt University

The Project Manager for Vanderbilt University Public Safety Department will work to provide strategic support to identify and enhance processes and policies critical to the department’s growth and success. This role will work collaboratively with department leadership to evaluate current operations, develop actionable improvement plans, and implement solutions that drive quality and efficiency. The Project Manager will also provide expert guidance to conceptualize and execute strategies aligned with organizational goals.

This role must be comfortable communicating at a C-suite level and have the flexibility to pivot priorities as needed. The successful candidate must have, at minimum, 5 years of documented project management experience in a fast-paced environment. This position will be an on-site role, with the possibility of a hybrid work environment as needs allow.

About the Work Unit

Vanderbilt University Public Safety (VUPS) is led by the Office of the Senior Associate Vice Chancellor/Chief of Police in the Division of Administration. VUPS is a dedicated team of over 400 professionals united by a shared commitment to fostering a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for all in the Vanderbilt community, as well as the Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Organized into several specialized units, our department includes commissioned officers, security professionals, and skilled administrative staff—all working collaboratively to uphold the highest standards of community-based policing.

Duties and Responsibilities

Project Planning and Management

• Define the structure, scope, and objectives of projects, including setting deadlines, allocating resources, and establishing success metrics.
• Develop comprehensive project plans, including timelines, milestones, and deliverables, to ensure alignment with departmental and organizational goals.
• Oversee all phases of project execution, from initiation to completion, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget.
• Monitor and report on project progress, identifying risks and implementing mitigation strategies as needed.

Process Improvement and Design Thinking

• Conduct in-depth analysis of existing processes and workflows to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and opportunities for improvement.
• Lead process mapping exercises to visualize and streamline workflows, ensuring optimal efficiency and alignment with best practices.
• Facilitate design thinking workshops with stakeholders to generate creative solutions and improve innovation in operational practices.
• Develop and implement process improvement strategies that enhance quality, reduce costs, and improve the overall user experience.

Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration

• Build strong relationships with department leaders, staff, and other key stakeholders to ensure alignment and buy-in for project initiatives.
• Serve as a liaison between cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration and effective communication.
• Lead regular meetings to update stakeholders on project progress, solicit feedback, and address concerns.

Reporting and Documentation

• Create and maintain detailed project documentation, including plans, schedules, reports, and process maps.
• Prepare presentations and reports to communicate project progress, outcomes, and recommendations to leadership.
• Ensure proper documentation of all process improvement initiatives, providing a foundation for future reference and continuous improvement.

Supervisory Relationships

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities. The Project Manager reports administratively and functionally to the Senior, Associate Vice Chancellor/ Chief of Police and the Director of General Services/Chief of Staff.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required.
• PMP, CAPM, or other project management certification preferred.
• Must have and maintain a valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record.
  • Vanderbilt University engages a third party to provide up-to-date notifications regarding negative changes to motor vehicle records.

Experience and Skills:

• A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience is required.
• Experience in a higher education institutional setting is preferred.
• Proven background in project management is required.
• Strong organizational skills are required.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills are required.
• Demonstrated leadership and motivational abilities are required.
• Ability to provide solutions in a high-volume environment, ability to remain calm and objective throughout stressful and difficult situations is required.

Physical Requirements:

• Moderate physical effort.
  • Must be able to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, push, and pull objects up to 25 pounds.
• Mobility and ability to assist in the movement of objects.
• Meet written departmental standards on appearance/grooming.
  • Good moral character
  • Good driving record
  • No prior criminal convictions

Working Environment:

• Seldom or never exposed to unpleasant working conditions.
• Environment may be stressful requiring the ability to multi-task.

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.

We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.

Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.