About this role
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.
Position Summary: Vanderbilt University is seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Associate Project Manager to support Vanderbilt Enterprises in developing and executing innovative business models and strategic initiatives that generate sustainable revenue, strengthen the Vanderbilt brand, and advance institutional priorities. This role will help operationalize new opportunities across Vanderbilt Enterprises, including commercial athletics, events and hospitality, corporate partnerships, retail and licensing, lifelong learning, and emerging ventures. The Associate Project Manager will assist with advancing strategic initiatives that connect Vanderbilt’s assets, expertise, audiences, and external partners. Working across multiple university units, the role will coordinate projects, manage cross-functional workflows, support new pilots and business models, and help translate Vanderbilt Enterprises’ strategy into tangible, measurable outcomes. About the Work Unit: Vanderbilt Enterprises is a strategic initiative launched to unlock the full potential of Vanderbilt University’s assets—facilities, services, and partnerships—to generate sustainable revenue and support long-term institutional priorities. Led by CEO Markus Schreyer, the venture draws inspiration from global best practices in hospitality, sports, and entertainment, reimagined for the collegiate landscape. Key Functions and Expected Performance: Project Management
• Manage the planning and delivery of strategic initiatives, launching prototypes and other Vanderbilt Enterprises initiatives across the University. • Manage project plans, timelines, and performance metrics; track progress and ensure alignment with strategic goals. • Coordinate with internal teams, external consultants, and university stakeholders to ensure seamless execution. • Conduct research, stakeholder interviews, and data analysis to inform strategy and execution. • Support pilot programs and MVP development across various segments • Prepare executive-level presentations, reports, and briefings for internal and external audiences. • Support logistics and communications for events, workshops, and stakeholder visits. • Ensure consistent messaging and documentation across teams and initiatives. • Identify opportunities for workflow improvements and operational efficiencies. • Propose enhancements to tools, systems, and communication strategies. Administration
• Manage the schedule for the CEO and other executives of Vanderbilt Enterprises and coordinate with various university offices and external entities for scheduling meetings. • Prepare meeting materials and manage logistics for on-site or remote meetings, using technologies like Zoom and Teams • Prioritize and arrange meeting details and events and assist with incoming communications and handle responses as appropriate. • Welcome guests, record minutes, and document important points and actions from staff meetings. • Address confidential information appropriately and interface professionally with senior executives and external parties. • Arrange travel plans for the CEO and other executives of Vanderbilt Enterprises and external guests, including accommodations and transportation, and process expense reports. • Manage office administration tasks such as ordering supplies, scheduling rooms, and arranging mailings, and collaborate with university staff to deliver organized administrative support. • Assist with process improvements within the office to improve effectiveness and resource management. • Understand and utilize office technologies effectively. Stay up-to-date on new technologies, including AI tools. • Maintain electronic and hard copy filing systems in accordance with Vanderbilt University Records Retention policies. • Perform other duties as assigned. Supervisory Relationships: This position will report to the Vice Chancellor and CEO, Vanderbilt Enterprises. This position does not have direct supervisory responsibilities but may coordinate work across multiple stakeholders and project contributors. Education and Certifications
• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education or equivalent is required. • A master’s or advanced certificate is preferred. Experience and Skills:
• Minimum 3 years of experience managing strategic or executive-level projects; 5+ years preferred.
• Experience in business strategy, project management, data analysis or innovation within higher education, startups, or consulting.
• Strong organizational and planning skills with the ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously is required.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required.
• High emotional intelligence and ability to build strong relationships across diverse teams are required.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with shifting priorities is required.
• Experience in hospitality, guest experience, or service design is considered an asset, particularly in environments emphasizing community engagement and high-touch programming.
• Advanced proficiency with Apple Mac environment and key productivity tools and project management platforms, including Keynote, Excel, Miro, Airtable or similar.