Director of Operations, Nanotechnology Research Facilities - Stanford University

Stanford University is seeking a Director of Operations to join nano@stanford in Palo Alto, CA. This globally recognized research hub is located in the heart of Silicon Valley, offering academic, industrial, and government researchers world-class tools and expert guidance in nanoscale science and engineering. In this newly established role, the incumbent will guide a high-performing team through the merger of two research facilities and support the launch of a new nanotechnology center by 2026. In addition, they are responsible for driving operational and programmatic excellence across technical research functions, resource management, and stakeholder collaboration. Offering relocation assistance and a comprehensive benefits package designed to meet employees at every stage of life-including generous PTO, world-class healthcare, superb retirement plans, and much more-this is the perfect opportunity to contribute to Stanford's legacy!

Another Source's client, Stanford University, is recruiting a Director of Operations, Nanotechnology Research Facilities to support their team in Palo Alto, CA. (Internally this position is titled: Managing Director, nano@stanford)

Position Summary:

Reporting to the Faculty Director of the nano@stanford facility, the Director of Operations provides visionary leadership, strategic guidance, and operational excellence for the technical, operational, safety, and financial aspects of nano@stanford. As a dynamic administrative leader, the Director of Operations is responsible for advising the Faculty Director on nano@stanford's strategic vision and executing the vision effectively, ensuring that the organization's operations are efficient, mission-driven, and aligned with university priorities.

Key responsibilities include providing programmatic and technical oversight, managing organizational and staff functions, leading financial planning and reporting, and guiding business development and communications strategies. The Director of Operations works closely with internal stakeholders, including the user community and faculty PIs, as well as various schools and business units across the university. Additionally, the Director of Operations fosters and sustains strong relationships with external partners, including industry leaders and peer institutions, to advance nano@stanford's mission and expand its impact with state-of-the-art facilities.

How you will spend your time:

Provide strategic direction for a major function or center; create strategic plans of considerable complexity and scope; set long-range direction and make high-level decisions; propose and manage the implementation of significant programmatic changes; establish policies as needed.

• Direct and oversee the overall scientific, engineering or technical research function for a major function or center. Collaborate with senior management, faculty and/or others in order to develop, communicate and manage a central strategic plan aligned with goals of the larger organization and consistent with the university's overall mission.

• Identify, clarify, and resolve issues with strategic impact and substantial significance, which span multiple areas, using advanced technical and professional knowledge requiring broad discretion and judgment.

• Responsible for ensuring that state-of-the-art scientific, engineering or technical research is adequately funded, staffed, equipped, and housed.

• Accountable for ensuring finance, budget, personnel, and facilities resources are used appropriately.

• Manage the adoption and adaptation of emerging technologies to meet changing requirements, capabilities, and opportunities.

• Lead high-level scientific, engineering, or technical research programs and initiatives through technical design, development, integration and outreach.

• Advise university/school-wide senior management on technical futures.

• Collaborate with university leaders on scientific, engineering or technical research project decisions.

What you will bring to the role:

• Bachelor's degree and ten years of relevant experience or combination of education and relevant experience. PhD degree in relevant disciplines is highly desirable.

• Previous cleanroom experience is required.

• Extensive experience leading and managing a large organization of technical staff through subordinate managers.

• Demonstrated experience leading large, complex scientific, engineering or technical research projects or programs.

• In-depth understanding of relevant business and technical disciplines.

• In-depth knowledge of emerging technologies, trends, methodologies, and resource management principles.

• Ability to synthesize and articulate technical and scientific methodologies, specifications, and information.

• Demonstrated ability to work and communicate effectively with others.

• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and deliver results.

• Exceptional customer relationship and consensus-building skills.

• Ability to influence and establish effective working relationships in a diverse environment. Motivate and mentor staff.

• Resolve complex issues quickly and make decisions that meet university objectives in a collaborative culture

The expected pay range for this position is $220,859 - $266,991 per annum. Relocation assistance is provided.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package.

Why Stanford is for You: https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards

• Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or audit a course. Join aTedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.

• $6,000+ in tuition and training assistance annually

• Up to 50% of Stanford's annual tuition cost is applied to your child's undergraduate tuition

• A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time off, and family care resources.

• A healthier you. Climb our rockwall orchoose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits.

• Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.

• Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts, and more!

• 18+PTO/Vacation days per year

• Up to 5% of your base pay contributed automatically to your 403(b) + a generous match

• 100% of your retirement account is fully vested immediately

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources by submitting a contact form. Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Another Source works with their clients, on a retained project basis. We are committed to building inclusive candidate pools as we partner with hiring teams. Veterans, women, people of color, LGBTQIA+, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. As you read through the job posting and review the list of qualifications (required and/or preferred), please do not self-select out if you feel you do not meet every qualification. No one is 100% qualified. We encourage you to apply and share your story with us.

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