Executive Assistant, Operations

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here Is What We Offer

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture
  
  

Join Howard University and thrive with us!

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

Job Purpose

Developing a strong culture of customer service is vital to the success of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR). The Executive Assistant provides administrative and logistical coordination in support of strategic initiatives across the Development & Alumni Relations division. This position assists with planning, tracking, and implementing projects that span multiple functional areas—such as Alumni Relations, Donor Relations & Stewardship, Advancement Services, Annual Giving, and University Events & Protocol. This position supports and works closely with DAR’s Associate Vice President for Development Strategy and Operations and the Vice President of Development.

Supervisory Authority

N/A

Nature And Scope

The Executive Assistant facilitates the daily activities of the Associate Vice President and Vice President. They support the fundraising success of them and their teams by coordinating daily activities, ensure timelines, deliverables, and communications are organized and executed efficiently, managing travel, scheduling, and completing administrative tasks as needed.

Principal Accountabilities

• This role manages busy executive calendars. Responsibilities include serving as the first point of contact for AVP and VP to coordinate DS&O project requests, helping route assignments to appropriate staff or teams.
• Core responsibilities also include calendar and correspondence management, managing staff travel and expense reporting, assisting with scheduling and assembling donor kits for campus visits, special events and meetings.
• Support the planning and coordination of DS&O projects and initiatives under the guidance of the AVP.
• Maintain project trackers, timelines, and task lists using tools such as Excel, Asana, or Smartsheet.
• Schedule meetings, prepare agendas, capture notes, and track action items.
• Assist with drafting and formatting project briefs, summaries, and presentations for leadership.
• Monitor project deadlines and follow up with team members to ensure progress.
• Draft internal communications or talking points for review by the AVP.
• Maintain up-to-date distribution lists, project rosters, and contact databases.
• Coordinate production schedules, materials, and vendor communications in collaboration with University Events & Protocol.
• Collect, organize, and summarize information from Advancement Services, Annual Fund, and Alumni Relations teams for recurring reports.
• Help prepare presentations, spreadsheets, and dashboards for leadership review.
• The role serves as a trusted resource to development colleagues and will conduct preliminary research on prospective donors. Additional responsibilities include initiating efforts to ensure donor documentation is submitted in a timely manner and providing a final review to documents being submitted by the AVPs for signature of the Chief Development Officer.
  
  

Core Competencies

• Demonstrated success managing and planning for multiple complex schedules and work streams;
• Ability to provide administrative support, manage up and anticipate the needs of a senior executive;
• Handles shifting priorities and short timelines with the ability to prioritize work, anticipate roadblocks and lead in the proactive development of solutions;
• Writes clearly and professionally for varied audiences.
• Ability to navigate internal processes and structures to problem-solve and contribute to a culture of collaboration, accountability, and excellence;
• Ability to access and work with data to inform reporting and task completion;
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently with purpose and accuracy in a fast-paced environment; and
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and a high degree of discretion.
  
  

Minimum Requirements

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field or three (3) years of experience in an administrative position
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint
• Database management experience, knowledge of Raiser’s Edge preferred
• Experience with project management system
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  
  

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

SALARY RANGE: $65,000 - $75,000