SMU Libraries - Strategy & Operations Analyst (HR Title: Data Analyst II)
Southern Methodist University Inc

Description

Salary Range:

Salary Range: $69,885.90 - $75,000

About SMU

SMU's more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and over 80 countries to take advantage of the University's small classes, meaningful research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study and innovative programs.

SMU serves approximately 7,000 undergraduates and 5,000 graduate students through eight degree-granting schools: Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences, Cox School of Business, Lyle School of Engineering, Meadows School of the Arts, Simmons School of Education and Human Development, Dedman School of Law, Perkins School of Theology and Moody School of Graduate and Advanced Studies.

SMU is data driven, and its powerful supercomputing ecosystem - paired with entrepreneurial drive - creates an unrivaled environment for the University to deliver research excellence.

Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical, enterprising leaders in their professions and communities. SMU's relationship with Dallas - the dynamic center of one of the nation's fastest-growing regions - offers unique learning, research, social and career opportunities that provide a launch pad for global impact.

SMU is nonsectarian in its teaching and committed to academic freedom and open inquiry.

About the Position:

This role is an on-campus, in-person position.

SMU Libraries seeks a dynamic and experienced professional for the Strategy & Operations Analyst position within the Office of the Dean. The ideal candidate will play a critical role in data portfolio management, reporting, and strategic assessment to align operational activities with the broader objectives of SMU Libraries and SMU. Reporting to the Director of Organizational Effectiveness & Inclusion, the Analyst will utilize advanced statistical and data mining techniques to ensure data integrity and alignment with strategic decision-making. The Analyst will facilitate collaboration across departments, promoting buy-in for assessment initiatives and contributing to the successful communication and achievement of library goals. Those who are excited to leverage data to drive strategic decisions and promote operational excellence are encouraged to apply!

SMU is a nationally ranked private research university in Dallas, TX, with eight degree-granting schools. SMU Libraries includes six libraries on the main campus and one library at our satellite location in Taos, NM. It is the mission of SMU Libraries to offer multidisciplinary expertise, personalized service, and distinctive collections to advance discovery, catalyze innovation, expand connections with campus and community partners, and directly impact the success of SMU's academic, research, and creative aspirations. SMU Libraries and the SMU campus is dedicated to diversity and inclusion. We seek candidates who share our values of a diverse and equitable workplace based on teamwork with a proactive and positive approach in all that we do.

Essential Functions:

Lead the development and implementation of data collection and analysis strategies using advanced techniques to conduct strategic assessments of library operations, resource allocation and data collection systems; assess key performance indicators to identify areas for improvement and innovation.

Utilize data analytics tools such as Tableau, Power BI, SQL, and Python to build and maintain dashboards and reports.

Collaborate with library staff and executive leadership to analyze data, identify trends, and develop strategic initiatives based on data insights.

Synthesize and report accurate library data and narratives to external professional partners such as IPEDS and the Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL) and to internal campus partners such as University Decision Support (UDS) and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) for assessment and facilitates benchmarking efforts.

Oversee the administration and design of custom assessment instruments, such as surveys and focus groups, and maintain comprehensive data integrity.

Keep informed on national and local data requirements as well as tools and trends in related data collection software such as Tableau, Excel, Power BI, Anthology Planning, and Qualtrics.

Assist with collecting, analyzing, and reporting on operational, financial, and personnel data to align decision-making with strategic objectives. Devise standardized methods for collection, management, and reporting to ensure compliance with University's data governance policies.

Manage internal knowledge resources, including content management and user experience design for the staff resources webpage.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:
Required Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree. Preferably in data science, information systems, business analytics, or a related field.

Minimum of 3 years of experience in data assessment or data management.

Proficiency in data analysis, statistical, and visualization software, such as Power BI, Tableau, Microsoft Visio, and/or Anthology.

Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and the Microsoft Office Suite.
Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in an academic library or university setting.

Master's degree in a related field.

Experience with SQL, Python, and other advanced data analytics tools.

Ability to function independently while advancing multiple projects in a team environment.

Experience in project management.

Experience in knowledge management or document management.

Strong problem-solving skills.

Excellent communication skills (oral and written).

Excellent organizational skills.

Experience in or demonstrated commitment to support of inclusive excellence

Familiarity with or willingness to learn about academic library goals and processes.

Deadline to Apply:

Open until filled. Applications submitted by November 15, 2024, will receive priority consideration.

To be considered for this position, applicants are required to submit:

(1) A resume or CV,

(2) A cover letter that addresses the education and experience required and preferred for this position.

EEO Statement:

SMU will not discriminate in any program or activity on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression. The Executive Director for Access and Equity/Title IX Coordinator is designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies and may be reached at the Perkins Administration Building, Room 204, 6425 Boaz Lane, Dallas, TX 75205, 214-768-3601, accessequity@smu.edu.

Benefits:

SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefits. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution.

SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU.

The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities, including tuition benefits.