Executive Assistant to the Vice Provost & Dean - Graduate School - UTK
University Of Tennessee College
Administration
Knoxville, TN, USA
USD 55k-58k / year
This position is a highly skilled, detail-oriented, and customer-focused Executive Administrative Assistant who provides senior-level support to the Vice Provost and Dean. This position is critical to the effective operation of the Dean’s office and requires exceptional judgment, discretion, organizational ability, and professionalism. The successful candidate will be a proactive problem solver who thrives in a fast-paced environment and excels at presenting a strong, competent, and welcoming front for the Graduate School.
The Graduate School at the University of Tennessee seeks an Executive Administrative Assistant for the Vice Provost and Dean. This position requires a highly skilled, detail-oriented, and customer-focused individual and is critical to the effective operation of the Dean’s office. The position requires exceptional judgment, discretion, organizational ability, and professionalism. The successful candidate will be a proactive problem solver who thrives in a fast-paced environment and excels at presenting a strong, competent, and welcoming front for the Graduate School.
Required Qualifications
Education and Experience: Bachelors degree and 5 years of administrative assistant or office experience, to include at least 1 year providing high level support to an executive. Or in lieu of a Bachelor's degree 5 years of executive assistant experience will be considered.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
Exceptional organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail.
Strong customer service orientation with the ability to interact professionally and courteously with diverse stakeholders.
Demonstrated ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion and sound judgment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft high-level correspondence.
Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
Proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience: Experience in higher education.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
Familiarity with university policies, governance structures, and administrative processes.
- Proven success supporting senior leadership and coordinating high-visibility events and initiatives.
Experience providing executive-level administrative support in a higher education or complex organizational setting.
Work Location
Location: Knoxville, TN
Onsite, Hybrid, or Remote - Onsite
Compensation and Benefits
UT Market Range: 08
Anticipated hiring range: $55-58K
Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here
Find more information on UT Benefits here
Application Instructions
To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments:
Resume
Cover Letter
3 Professional References
About The College/Department/Division:
The Graduate School at the University of Tennessee Knoxville is a dynamic office that provides a wide range of services to students and academic units from recruitment to graduation. While prospective students are exploring graduate education, we are here to provide insight into the programs available and the process for applying. Once a student has decided to submit an application, we manage the admissions process in coordination with the academic units. During the time a student is enrolled at UTK, the Graduate School monitors student progress and provides support for student success. As students approach graduation, we evaluate records and verify the awarding of all degrees.
Graduate education is one of the components that makes UT a great university. The Graduate School is a full partner in supporting the university’s mission, vision, and the values embodied in the Volunteer Spirit.
Executive Support and Strategic Coordination:
Provides executive-level administrative support to the Vice Provost & Dean, including independently resolving issues, anticipating needs, proactively solving problems, and advising on sensitive or complex matters.
Serves as a trusted partner to the Dean, ensuring priorities are managed efficiently and effectively.
Manages the Dean’s email account (gradschooldean@utk.edu) and calendar with a high degree of discretion, responsiveness, and attention to detail; prepares concise briefings and background materials for meetings as needed.
Coordinates itineraries and develops agendas for the Vice Provost and Dean.
Schedules, coordinates, and supports high-level meetings, including preparing materials, recording minutes, and ensuring timely follow-up.
Serves as secretary for the Associate Deans of Graduate Studies group, including agenda preparation, minute-taking, and distribution of documentation.
Communication & Representation:
Communicates strategically and professionally on behalf of the Dean with campus leaders, faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders.
Drafts high-level correspondence, reports, and communications that reflect the Dean’s voice and the Graduate School’s mission.
Serves as an expert resource across campus on Graduate School-related matters, interpreting and applying policies in alignment with institutional practices and principles.
Other duties as assigned.