University of Chicago

Position Title/Short Description

Full Text of JOE Listing:

About the Unit
The Energy Policy Institute at Chicago (EPIC) is an interdisciplinary research and training institute focused on the economic and social consequences of energy policies. Established in June 2011, the Energy Policy Institute at Chicago (EPIC) is a broadly encompassing joint energy institute of the Booth School of Business, Harris School and Social Sciences Division.

Job Description
The Executive Director of the Energy Policy Institute at Chicago will manage the daily operations of the center and must have a proven record in research management and administration, partnership development, policy engagement and staff management. This is a senior-level position and provides the opportunity to work directly with a network of leading academics in the area of energy policy. As EPIC will be entering a growth phase, there is scope for the executive director to play an important role in shaping both the direction and operations of what promises to be an influential and scientifically respected research and policy institute.

The Executive Director will report to the Director of EPIC, Michael Greenstone, and work closely with other members of the leadership team.

Responsibilities include:
* Core Management and Oversight: Design and direct administrative systems and operational policies in consultation with the EPIC leadership. Manage all financial administration and human resource issues with the host university. Be a resource on funding, staffing, and administration to affiliated faculty. Represent EPIC in meetings with key stakeholders. Be an integral part of the hiring process, and mentor and supervise staff. Prioritize, delegate, and manage effectively.

* Organizational Development: Aid in executing a plan with EPIC leadership to position EPIC to become the world's leading think-and-do tank for energy policy. Provide leadership for EPIC, including working with the EPIC Director and the leadership team to develop strategic recommendations and execute approved plans for EPIC development and growth. Identify and secure funding sources for EPIC's work.

* Partnership Development: Meet with and build relationships with key partners in the public and private sectors, non-profits, foundations and multilateral aid agencies. Give presentations on EPIC's work.

* Campus Outreach: Build partnerships with other UChicago units to increase interest in energy research and policy around the campus. Manage relationships with key University partners, including EPIC's "parent" organizations. Recognize opportunities to form collaborations with faculty, centers and departments not typically engaged in EPIC's work with the intent to broaden EPIC's reach and scope at UChicago.

* Program Development: Lead in the establishment, development and execution of EPIC's special programs, such as the creation and administration of fellowship, internship and other related programs.

Qualifications:
Education: Advanced degree in economics, energy/environmental policy, public policy, management, law or a closely related field is preferred. A strong understanding of energy policy is necessary to ensure an ability to translate and communicate EPIC's work in an accurate and effective manner.

Experience: 5-10 years relevant work experience, preferably in a similar policy, research or academic environment.

Communication: Attention to detail and advanced writing and presentation skills for communicating policy lessons from academic papers in ways that are accessible to stakeholders. This requires clear, precise, non-technical writing, and confident, effective public speaking skills.

Time Management: Proven ability to multitask and successfully complete projects on tight deadlines with little supervision. A willingness to work hard, be self-motivated, and learn will be essential for doing well in this position.

Ability to hire, retain and supervise staff: A key responsibility of the Executive Director will be to hire well qualified and motivated staff in research, policy and capacity building roles, supervising their work and helping in their career development. Creating and maintaining a collegial work culture that emphasizes team work, results and good work-life balance.

Willingness to travel: Mostly within the US, but there is potential for international travel as well.

How to Apply:
Please apply online at https://jobopportunities.uchicago.edu and search for requisition # 097337.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status or status as an individual with disability.

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity / Disabled / Veterans Employer