Education Program Specialist, Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research

The Pennsylvania State University • University Park, FL

52d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Center for Supply Chain Research (CSCR/Center) seeks to fill a full-time position supporting the operations of a high performing research center focused on bridging academia and industry. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, this position requires a candidate to be self-directed, conscientious, and detail-oriented; able to manage multiple tasks and deadlines; collaborate with internal and external supporters, and demonstrate a genuine appreciation for working with multiple audiences in a team environment as our clients include industry executives, Supply Chain & Information Systems faculty, students, University administrators, and staff. The position responsibilities are: Coordinate experiential learning opportunities between corporate supporters, advisors, and student teams including ongoing administrative support needed for effective program execution; responsible for project lifecycle from onboarding (i.e. documentation, collection, verification, training) to project completion. Manage the entire virtual training opportunities life cycle for our corporate supporters including scheduling, communications internally and externally, follow-ups with attendees, and other necessary administrative needs to ensure a positive learning experience, effectiveness in the program, and operational efficiency. Ability to seek out industry experts to engage with the Center in various capacities and effectively communicate and secure those needs. Create and lead the development of supply chain programs including identifying topics, speakers, and supporting logistical needs. Manage financial reporting for the department and maintain communications with financial office. Design and implement business metrics to monitor, track, and report. Ability to collect, consolidate, organize data from various systems, and present findings and actional insights to support department operations (i.e. KPIs, identify trends, patterns) Optimize processes and drive efficiencies in the work we do within the department and team. Engage with and work closely with cross-functional internal and external stakeholders on various committees

Requirements

• Proven experience in supply chain management or related field with proficiency in supply chain terms and advancing supply chain operations
• Ability to work independently with little guidance and provide regular updates to leadership and participate in regular calls internally and with external organizations.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities with varying degrees of complexities depending on the time of year.
• Forward thinking with a creative mindset.
• Must possess excellent and effective communication (written and verbal) skills, be customer centric, be able to engage at all levels, and be organized.
• Maintain accurate reporting of trainings, supporter engagement, and other initiatives including some requiring monthly and quarterly report generation.
• Advanced project management skills, with a proven track record of managing multiple projects and stakeholders in deadline-focused, ambiguous settings.
• Highly organized, action-oriented, and accountable for driving outcomes and following up on feedback to ensure positive results.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a highly successful team of professionals.
• Proactive in identifying challenges and solutions to drive operational excellence.
• Think both strategically and tactically, adapting to evolving business needs and priorities.
• Proficient in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, MS Forms, Qualtrics or demonstrate ability to become proficient in an accelerated timeframe.
• Bachelor's Degree
• 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

Nice To Haves

• Working knowledge of Salesforce and Cvent is desired; proficiency in SAP Concur and Workday.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate experiential learning opportunities between corporate supporters, advisors, and student teams including ongoing administrative support needed for effective program execution; responsible for project lifecycle from onboarding (i.e. documentation, collection, verification, training) to project completion.
• Manage the entire virtual training opportunities life cycle for our corporate supporters including scheduling, communications internally and externally, follow-ups with attendees, and other necessary administrative needs to ensure a positive learning experience, effectiveness in the program, and operational efficiency.
• Ability to seek out industry experts to engage with the Center in various capacities and effectively communicate and secure those needs.
• Create and lead the development of supply chain programs including identifying topics, speakers, and supporting logistical needs.
• Manage financial reporting for the department and maintain communications with financial office.
• Design and implement business metrics to monitor, track, and report.
• Ability to collect, consolidate, organize data from various systems, and present findings and actional insights to support department operations (i.e. KPIs, identify trends, patterns)
• Optimize processes and drive efficiencies in the work we do within the department and team.
• Engage with and work closely with cross-functional internal and external stakeholders on various committees

Benefits

• Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
• In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.
• One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees