Vice President for Strategic Initiatives

The University of Minnesota, one of the most prestigious public research universities in the nation, seeks an experienced and highly collaborative leader to serve as the inaugural Vice President for Strategic Initiatives (VPSI). This is an exceptional opportunity to join U-M at a pivotal moment in its history and help shape its next chapter while leading strategic planning efforts across the system. With the excitement of a new president, the institution is poised to deepen its commitment to research, teaching, and service, open access to opportunity, and forward-thinking innovation to advance the University’s land-grant mission and impact the world.

Reporting directly to President Cunningham, the VPSI will serve as a trusted advisor to the president and a key member of the president’s senior leadership team. Collaborating with other constituencies across the U-M system, the VPSI will lead the execution of the institution’s next strategic plan and support high-level, mission critical strategic initiatives and programs that advance the University’s growth, impact, and reputation. In addition, the VPSI will work closely with the President and Chief of Staff in strategic policy analysis. The successful candidate will be a collegial and mission-oriented leader who takes initiative and has the interpersonal skills to operate strategically and effectively to help drive and achieve results. 

Jeff Kessner and Keight Tucker Kennedy are leading the search with Ivan Ceballos and Jenny Rubin.

The University of Minnesota shall provide equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, familial status, disability, public assistance status, membership or activity in a local commission created for the purpose of dealing with discrimination, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.