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Georgia Institute of Technology

Deputy Chief Operating Officer (COO) - Research

Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, United States, 30383

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Job Title: Deputy Chief Operating Officer (COO) - Research

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Employment Type: Regular, Full-Time

Job Summary The Deputy Chief Operations Officer (Deputy COO) Research provides strategic leadership and operational oversight across a large, multi‑site research enterprise. The role drives organizational effectiveness and operational excellence across program management, enterprise governance, capital planning, facilities, lease and strategic contract management, emergency management, safety, security, and program operations. It manages secure spaces in compliance with U.S. Intelligence Community and Department of Defense requirements, supports national security initiatives, and contributes to institutional strategy and governance.

Responsibilities

Provide enterprise‑wide strategic and operational leadership to ensure alignment with institutional mission, growth objectives, and long‑term priorities.

Serve as a senior advisor to executive leadership on operational policy, business strategy, and contract execution, influencing decision‑making at the highest levels.

Lead secure infrastructure planning and compliance for classified environments, ensuring adherence to DoD, NISPOM, and federal security standards.

Drive organizational effectiveness and operational excellence, implementing strategies that enhance performance, scalability, and service delivery.

Oversee execution of major operational programs and initiatives, ensuring timely delivery, resource optimization, and strategic impact.

Ensure regulatory and institutional compliance across all operational domains, including national security‑related operations and sponsored program support.

Manage and develop high‑performing, cross‑functional teams, including unit heads, project managers, consultants, and research personnel.

Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including government partners, vendors, and institutional leaders, to advance strategic initiatives.

Champion continuous improvement and innovation, fostering a culture of agility, accountability, and excellence in operational practices.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a related discipline or equivalent experience.

10+ years of relevant experience; 6+ years of supervisory knowledge.

Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree in a related discipline or equivalent experience.

At least 2 years at the director‑level.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

Business Acumen

– Deep understanding of the organization's mission, market dynamics, and financial drivers. Makes decisions that balance short‑term performance with long‑term sustainability and growth.

Collaboration & Relationship Building

– Cultivates strategic partnerships and cross‑functional collaboration. Navigates complex organizational dynamics with diplomacy and influence to achieve shared success.

Ethical Judgment & Integrity

– Models ethical leadership and decision‑making. Upholds transparency, fairness, and compliance. Promotes a values‑driven culture across the enterprise.

Strategic Thinking

– Shapes long‑range strategies that align with enterprise goals. Anticipates emerging trends, risks, and opportunities. Makes high‑impact decisions grounded in data, insight, and foresight.

Leadership & People Management

– Provides visionary leadership across multiple teams and functions. Builds and sustains a culture of excellence, inclusion, and accountability. Develops senior leaders and succession pipelines to ensure organizational continuity.

Communication & Influence

– Communicates with clarity, authority, and empathy across diverse audiences. Builds consensus, drives alignment, and influences outcomes at the executive and stakeholder levels.

Operational Excellence

– Champions enterprise‑wide efficiency and effectiveness. Oversees complex budgets, resource strategies, and performance systems to deliver measurable results.

Change Management

– Leads transformational change with strategic clarity and emotional intelligence. Builds organizational resilience and agility while fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

USG Core Values The University System of Georgia upholds Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. Each member of the system is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More information is available in the USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2.

Equal Employment Opportunity The Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The Institute is committed to maintaining a fair and respectful environment for all. To that end, and in accordance with federal and state law, Georgia Tech provides equal opportunity to all personnel and applicants.

Georgia Tech prohibits discrimination, including discriminatory harassment, on the basis of race, ethnicity, ancestry, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, disability, genetics, veteran status, citizenship status, immigration status, and national origin discrimination in hiring, firing, and recruitment, except where required by law or contractual obligations.

Other Information • Supervisory position with no financial responsibilities. • Requires security clearance. • No travel required. • Position of trust. • No purchasing card (P‑Card) required. • Salary: $186,044 – $314,414 (R14) – dependent on experience and skills. • Must be a U.S. citizen. • Successful candidate must pass a background check. For screening policy visit http://policylibrary.gatech.edu/employment/pre‑employment‑screening.

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