Administrative Operations Manager(Front Office)

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 supportWork-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangementsFinancial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement pathsAdditional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company cultureJoin Howard University and thrive with us! PURPOSE:The Administrative Operations Manager (Front Office) serves as the operational and administrative anchor of the Office of the Dean and is the primary front-facing representative for the College of Arts & Sciences. Reporting to the Assistant Dean for Finance & Administration, this role is responsible for managing day-to-day administrative operations, front office services, facilities coordination, vendor and procurement activities, and student staff supervision to ensure a professional, efficient, and well-coordinated Dean's Office.SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:Supervises front desk staff and work-study students assigned to the Office of the DeanResponsible for scheduling, training, task assignment, and performance feedback for student and administrative support staffProvides functional guidance to administrative staff supporting front office operationsNATURE AND SCOPE:The Administrative Operations Manager (Front Office) works closely with the Dean, Chief of Staff, Assistant Dean for Finance & Administration, associate deans, faculty, staff, students, visitors, vendors, and university service partners (e.g., Facilities, Procurement, IT).This role exercises independent judgment in managing administrative operations, resolving day-to-day issues, and coordinating resources to support executive leadership and college-wide operations.PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:Front Office & Executive OperationsServe as the primary front office presence for the Office of the Dean, ensuring a professional, welcoming, and well-managed environmentManage front desk operations, visitor reception, and daily office readinessCoordinate administrative logistics for meetings, events, and executive activities within the Dean's OfficeMaintain consistent front office protocols and service standardsAdministrative Operations & Workflow ManagementEstablish and maintain administrative procedures, workflows, and internal operating practices for the Office of the DeanManage document control, records management, and administrative filing systemsDraft, maintain, and update non-HR administrative standard operating procedures (SOPs)Coordinate internal communications and administrative scheduling within the Dean's OfficeStudent & Administrative Support OversightSupervise work-study students and front desk staff, including scheduling, onboarding, task delegation, and time submission coordinationEnsure adequate front office coverage and operational continuitySupport administrative onboarding logistics for new staff (workspace readiness, access coordination, supplies), referring all HR-related actions to the HR Operations CoordinatorFacilities & Building OperationsServe as the primary point of contact for facilities, maintenance, and building operations for the Office of the DeanCoordinate building safety, space readiness, and maintenance requestsMonitor office infrastructure needs and escalate issues as appropriate to Facilities Management Vendor, Procurement & Resource ManagementCoordinate procurement of goods and services in accordance with university policiesManage vendor relationships, service agreements, renewals, and pricing coordinationTrack contracts, service timelines, and vendor deliverables (non-legal review)Maintain inventory, office supplies, and resource allocation for the Dean's OfficeOversee procurement card (P-Card) activity, including transaction processing, reconciliation, and compliance with university procurement policies Operational Partnership & Special ProjectsPartner with the Chief of Staff on administrative initiatives, operational improvements, and special projectsSupport the Assistant Dean for Finance & Administration with administrative coordination and operational reporting as neededIdentify opportunities to improve front office efficiency, service delivery, and administrative consistencyCoordinates domestic and international travel arrangements for the Dean, as needed, ensuring accuracy, timeliness and adherence to university travel guidelinesCORE COMPETENCIES: Strong knowledge of administrative and office operations principlesDemonstrated ability to manage front office services in a complex academic environmentExcellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skillsAbility to exercise discretion and maintain confidentialityStrong vendor coordination and procurement management skillsAbility to supervise and develop student and administrative support staffProven ability to manage multiple priorities and operate independentlyWorking knowledge of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, including Workday.Proficiency with office productivity tools (Word, Excel, Outlook) and administrative systemsMINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:Bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, or a related field4-6 years of progressively responsible experience in administrative or operations managementExperience supporting executive offices or senior leadership preferredEquivalent combination of education and experience may be consideredCompliance Salary Range Disclosure$55,000-$65,000

Created: 2026-04-02