Assistant Vice Chancellor for Anchor Initiatives

The Assistant Vice Chancellor for Anchor Initiatives will be the central project manager and convener for all Anchor Initiatives and will serve as the primary support for the Buy, Build, Hire LOCAL program. The incumbent will work closely with Buy, Build, Hire leads, and key intermediaries (such as the Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence, Innovate PGH, etc.), to enhance efforts to strengthen Pitt’s impact in local communities and historically underrepresented communities, through procurement contracts, capital projects spending, and hiring. The AVC will serve as a high-level thought partner and strategist, forming partnerships with both internal and external leaders, departments, and organizations.

This position will report to the Vice Chancellor of Engagement and Community Affairs, be an integral member of the ECA leadership team, and have support provided for data management, communications, and scheduling. The AVC will also work closely with the Vice Chancellor for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion to ensure that in addition to accelerating the university’s community engagement agenda, the anchor initiatives strategically align with Pitt’s equity focus. The position will have strong ties to the Chancellor’s Office to ensure that Anchor Initiative strategies are integrally linked to the University’s mission and ongoing strategic plan. Beyond project management expertise, the selected candidate should possess a combination of the following skill sets and experience.

The candidate will have direct experience in at least one of the following areas: anchor institution strategy, supply chain management, diversity, equity, & inclusion, capital projects, human resources, or workforce development. Additionally, the Assistant Vice Chancellor should be a strong organizer and convener, think analytically, have a passion for mission-driven, equity-centered work, and must be able to engage at both a strategic and operational level providing leadership for these large-scale efforts while also working closely with various internal and external leaders and partners on strategy development. The Assistant Vice Chancellor should have a demonstrated record of cultivating partnerships and resources. Finally, this role is public facing and requires excellent communication and diplomacy skills as well as experience engaging with a diverse group of government and other institutional stakeholders, intermediary partner organizations, and community members in and around Pittsburgh.

Master’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major or degree in Urban Planning, Community Development, Economic Development, Real Estate, Business, or related discipline, or equivalent combination of education and experience. At least 5 years of relevant experience serving as a senior manager with a demonstrated history of successfully managing projects across complex organizations.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.