Chief of Staff, Higher Education, Collaboratives & Strategic Initiatives

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Chief of Staff, Higher Education, Collaboratives & Strategic Initiatives will serve as the strategic right hand to the Executive Director, ensuring the smooth operation and high performance of the Higher Education, Collaboratives & Strategic Initiatives (HECSI)platform. This incumbent will combine executive coordination with strategic advisory support to enable timely execution of key priorities and maximize the Executive Director’s time and influence. The role will focus on enhancing internal alignment and external engagement, rather than program delivery, and will require a strong emphasis on operational excellence, communications, and trusted leadership. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff will help drive clarity, collaboration, and accountability across the platform in pursuit of the Foundation’s mission.

WAYS YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE

• Partner with the Executive Director to track and drive progress on strategic initiatives and leadership priorities.
• Conduct research and synthesize information to provide inputs that support informed decision-making.
• Prepare high-quality briefing materials, talking points, and recommendations for internal and external engagements.
• Provide proactive insights and timely updates to inform and guide executive-level responses and actions.
• Support the translation of higher education and collaborative strategies into operational plans in partnership with relevant teams.
• Facilitate integration of cross-cutting themes such as health systems, education theory, and pandemic preparedness into HECSI initiatives.
• Coordinate efforts that connect academic research, field experience, and policy insights to shape evidence-based programming.
• Support partnerships and program design initiatives that embed interdisciplinary content and address youth development needs.
• Ensure alignment and coordination across HECSI teams, promoting consistent internal communication and collaboration.
• Coordinate materials, briefings, and logistics for senior leadership, Board, and executive-level meetings.
• Support the design and dissemination of internal updates, communications, and key messages on behalf of the ED’s office.
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the ED’s office, ensuring smooth coordination of meetings, travel, and correspondence.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the ED and internal/external stakeholders, ensuring professional and timely communication.
• Manage sensitive matters and priorities with discretion, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Lead the planning and delivery of special initiatives and cross-functional projects on behalf of the Executive Director.
• Monitor progress of operational and strategic goals, identify risks, and ensure accountability for timely execution.

WHO YOU ARE

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Formal training in Public Health Management, Project Management, Administration or Organizational Leadership is an asset.
• 12+ years of progressive experience supporting senior executives, ideally in a complex, matrixed organization.
• Demonstrated experience working with senior executives and handling confidential information with integrity.
• Proven ability to navigate matrixed environments and align cross-functional teams to strategic goals.
• High proficiency in managing executive calendars, travel, and briefings.
• Advanced use of tools such as Microsoft Office, Zoom, SharePoint, and other coordination platforms.
• Strong analytical and synthesis skills; able to filter and frame complex information quickly.
• Demonstrates sound judgment, emotional intelligence, and discretion.
• Exceptional communication and relationship management skills.
• Values kindness, respect, and inclusive collaboration.
• Comfortable managing competing priorities with calm, efficiency, and flexibility.
• Operates with integrity, attention to detail, and service-oriented mindset.

The Mastercard Foundation values the unique skills and experiences each individual brings to the organization and we are committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive and accessible environment for everyone.

Completion of satisfactory business references and background checks are essential conditions of employment.

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