Project Planner II, Sanford School of Public Policy

Duke University:

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Be You. Be Bold. Choose Duke.

Project Planner II

Be You.

At Duke University, we believe that innovative solutions come from diverse perspectives, experiences, and talents. As a Project Planner II, you will serve as a trusted partner to the Dean of the Sanford School of Public Policy, helping drive high-impact initiatives and projects that advance the school's strategic priorities. In this role, you'll collaborate with senior leaders, faculty, staff, and external stakeholders while bringing your organizational expertise, strategic thinking, and commitment to excellence to every project you support.

Be Bold.

As a Project Planner II, you will manage complex projects, support executive priorities, conduct research and analysis, and coordinate with stakeholders across the University. Your ability to anticipate challenges, manage competing priorities, and communicate effectively will contribute to the success of critical school-wide initiatives.

What You'll Do

Special Initiatives & Project Management (50%)

• Plan, coordinate, and manage strategic initiatives and special projects on behalf of the Dean and senior leadership.
• Develop project plans, timelines, milestones, and deliverables while tracking progress toward goals.
• Monitor project activities and proactively address risks, delays, and obstacles.
• Recommend adjustments to priorities, timelines, and action plans to maintain momentum and meet objectives.
• Manage project tracking systems and reporting tools to ensure visibility and accountability.
• Develop briefing materials, presentations, and supporting documentation for executive engagements.
• Adapt to changing priorities and incorporate diverse perspectives to achieve successful outcomes.

Executive Support & Strategic Coordination (10%)

• Partner closely with executive support staff to coordinate the Dean's involvement in internal and external events.
• Develop processes that streamline communication and information flow to and from the Dean's Office.
• Support efforts to effectively manage executive priorities, scheduling, and commitments.
• Prioritize and route incoming requests and correspondence requiring executive attention.
• Respond to correspondence and inquiries on behalf of the Dean as appropriate.
• Organize administrative activities and ensure timely completion of key deliverables.
• Prepare reports, summaries, and executive communications in a variety of formats.

Research, Analysis & Communications (20%)

• Conduct research and analyze operational processes, challenges, and opportunities.
• Prepare reports, proposals, briefing papers, presentations, and research summaries to support informed decision-making.
• Draft, edit, and proofread professional communications, including correspondence, presentations, and memoranda.
• Monitor follow-up activities to ensure timely completion of requests and commitments.
• Create and maintain presentation materials for executive speeches, meetings, and public engagements.
• Record meeting discussions, prepare summaries, and distribute action items to stakeholders.

Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration (15%)

• Build strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders across the Sanford School and Duke University.
• Coordinate activities across multiple departments, functions, and project teams.
• Facilitate communication, collaboration, and accountability among project participants.
• Support cross-functional initiatives that align with organizational goals and priorities.
• Promote productive working relationships that support project success and stakeholder engagement.

Confidentiality, Policy & Administrative Operations (5%)

• Handle sensitive personnel, faculty, and organizational matters with discretion and professionalism.
• Maintain confidentiality when managing privileged or confidential information.
• Apply organizational policies, procedures, and University regulations appropriately.
• Support executive decision-making through sound judgment and accurate interpretation of policies.
• Exercise discretion when managing sensitive inquiries, priorities, and requests.

What You Bring

Education

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Additional coursework, training, or certification in Project Management is preferred.
• PMP, CAPM, or comparable project management credential preferred.

Experience

• Four years of progressively responsible project management experience managing complex initiatives involving multiple stakeholders and functional areas.
• Experience supporting senior leaders, executives, or academic administrators preferred.
• Experience in higher education, public policy, research administration, healthcare, medical education, publishing, clinical research, or related environments is desirable.
• Equivalent combinations of relevant education and experience will be considered.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, competing deadlines, and complex projects simultaneously.
• Strong project planning, coordination, and organizational skills.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
• Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with senior leaders, faculty, staff, and external partners.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with keen attention to detail.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and the ability to learn new technologies and systems quickly.
• Knowledge of professional protocols for working with executive leadership and high-level stakeholders.
• Commitment to fostering collaboration and working effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

Choose Duke.

At Duke University, you'll join a mission-driven community dedicated to excellence in education, research, and service. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside respected academic and administrative leaders while contributing to impactful initiatives that shape the future of public policy education. Duke offers a collaborative environment, professional growth opportunities, and a culture that values innovation, inclusion, and continuous learning.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Apply today and bring your project management expertise, strategic thinking, and collaborative leadership to Duke University's Sanford School of Public Policy.