Chief Administrative Officer

Position Summary

The UCLA Samueli School of Engineering invites applications for the position of Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE).

Reporting to the Department Chair, the CAO serves as the department's senior administrative leader, providing strategic direction and operational oversight in support of its world-renowned research, education, and public service mission.

Qualifications

• Seven to ten years of progressively responsible experience in academic or research administration, including financial management and supervision of professional staff.
• Demonstrated knowledge of fund accounting, contract and grant administration, and applicable federal and university financial regulations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, analytical, and organizational skills, with the ability to build collaborative relationships with faculty, staff, students, and other stakeholders.
• Proven ability to oversee administrative operations in a large, research-intensive academic department, school, or comparable organization, including complex financial operations and sponsored research administration.
• Success leading strategic planning, organizational change, and operational improvement initiatives that enhance academic and research excellence.

Education, Licenses, Certifications & Personal Affiliations

• Bachelor's Degree in business administration, finance, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Master's Degree in a related field (MBA, MPA, etc.) preferred.