Operations Manager - SMSP & Summer Academy

Job Number

2025-14501

Position Summary

UAE nationals are encouraged to apply 

New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) seeks to appoint an Operations Manager for the SMSP & Summer Academy (SA) programs, reporting to the Senior Director, SMSP & SA.

The Operations Manager oversees all operations of the Summer Academy and related community program events, providing logistical support for SMSP and ensuring seamless execution. Responsibilities include event planning, coordination, and managing and overseeing operational logistics such as venue selection, transportation, and accommodation. The role requires excellent planning, communication, and people management skills, as well as experience in operations management.

Key Responsibilities:

Summer Academy (SA)

• Plan and manage the SA recruitment and application process, including but not limited to managing program preparation tasks and coordination with the team
• Plan and manage all operational requirements of SA, including but not limited to support the creation of the Academic Calendar and support planning extra and co curricular activities
• Support the Senior Director with identifying operational needs and requirements
• Manage communications with ADEK, ESE, and schools during the recruitment and application cycle as well as updates throughout the academic year
• Lead planning of selection days including but not limited to day programs, support judges invitation, and all logistics of days
• Lead and manage the SA operational requirements including but not limited to, logistics, transportation and accommodation
• Plan, and lead chaperons recruitment, hiring, contracting and training
• Plan and manage all training requirements for Faculty, Staff, and Chaperons
• Plan and lead the security clearances requirements for the students
• Oversighting all the operational activities and updates during SA
• Provide direct support and supervision to head chaperons
• Provide student advising and counseling and coordinate any requirements for their success in the program
• Contribute to the APR report
• Manage the update to the SA Alumni Dashboard

SMSP and Emirati PhD Pathways

• Support the programing of the SMSP and Emirati PhD Pathways and lead the operations ensuring seamless execution
• Support operations for selection days, including but not limited to, day programs, support judges invitation, transportation and other logistics
• Support the security clearance process for the students
• Lead the operations of extracurricular activities including but not limited to logistics
• Support with the international trip planning and operations, including support supervising the students during the trip

General Administrative Support

• Plan and manage all events in the department (SA, SMSP, Emirati PhD Pathways) including but not limited to graduation ceremonies, Alumni events, refresher weekends, and programs orientations
• Support the update of the Alumni dashboards
• Support the budgeting and financial planning
• Contribute to the APR report
• Serve as part of the hiring team for new administrative staff
• Offer mentorship, stability, and support to the team.
• Any other duties assigned by the Senior Director

Required Education:

• Bachelors Degree in a relevant field such as Education Administrtion, Business Administration, Management, or a related discipline

Required Experience:

• 5+ years of experience in operations management, preferably within higher education or a similar academic environment
• Proven experience in program coordination, recruitment  and/or event planning
• Demonstrated ability to manage and lead cross-functional teams, including faculty, staff and external stakeholders
• Experience supervising employees and managing dail operations
• Experience working with universities, government agencies, or educational organisations
• Track record of successful collaboration with senior leadership and academic partners
• Experience in developing and executing operational plans, timelines, and budgets
• Strong project management skills with a focus on achieving goals under tight deadlines
• Knowledge of recruitment strategies, application processes, and selection methodologies
• Excellent verbal and witten communication skills
• Ability to build relationships with diverse groups, including students, academic staff and external partners
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address challenges effectively
• Ability to make data-driven decisions to improve program performance
• Understanding of cross-cultural communication and sensitivity, especially in internation or diverse educational settings

Preferred Education:

• Masters Degree in Higher Education, Public Administration, Project Management or a related field

Preferred Experience:

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and handle multiple priorities
• Passion for education, leadership development, and student success
• Flexibility to adapt to changing program needs and schedules