Executive Assistant to the COO & EVP for Business and Operations

Location: New York City, In-Person
Position Type: Full-Time

ABOUT THE NEW SCHOOL

At The New School, we redefine the boundaries of education, creativity, and innovation. Located in the heart of New York City and founded in 1919, our institution serves over 9,000 students from more than 100 countries across a dynamic range of disciplines. Our colleges include Parsons School of Design, The New School for Social Research, Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts, Parsons Paris, and the College of Performing Arts.

POSITION OVERVIEW

We are seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented Executive Assistant (EA) to support the Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President for Business and Operations. This role requires exceptional organizational skills, sound judgment, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment. The EA will act as a key liaison across the university, enabling the COO to focus on high-level strategic initiatives, institutional transformation, and executive decision-making.

The New School is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from individuals who are committed to our mission and who seek to work collaboratively with all members of our community.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Executive Support & Calendar Management

• Manage a complex calendar for the COO, including high-level internal and external meetings, board sessions, and strategic reviews.

• Prepare agendas, take minutes, and ensure effective follow-up on action items.

• Coordinate complex travel itineraries and logistics.

Operational Coordination

• Assist in managing internal department operations, including project tracking, deadline management, and process improvement initiatives.

• Serve as a central communication node for business operations leadership, ensuring alignment and transparency across teams.

• Track key performance indicators and timelines for strategic initiatives.

Communication & Documentation

• Draft and edit correspondence, memos, presentations, and reports on behalf of the COO.

• Support speechwriting and internal communications needs, including executive messaging and policy documents.

• Organize confidential files, institutional records, and business intelligence reports.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Coordinate with university leadership, faculty, and administrative staff to facilitate effective collaboration.

• Liaise with external partners, vendors, and consultants on behalf of the COOâ™s office.

• Support special projects and cross-functional initiatives related to campus transformation, revenue development, and strategic planning.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Bachelorâ™s or Associate degree required; advanced degree a plus.

• Experience: Minimum of 7â“12 years in an executive assistant, chief of staff, or high-level administrative support role, preferably in higher education, consulting, or a mission-driven organization.

• Skills:

  • Exceptional organizational and time-management abilities.

  • Outstanding written and verbal communication.

  • High proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and collaboration tools (Asana, Slack, Zoom, etc.).

  • Discretion and ability to handle sensitive and confidential matters.

  • Ability to navigate a complex and fast-paced environment with diplomacy and professionalism.

• Personal Attributes:

  • Self-starter with entrepreneurial spirit.

  • Poised, adaptable, and solution-oriented.

  • Passion for education and alignment with The New Schoolâ™s values.

WORK MODE

In-Person â” The Executive Assistant is expected to be present on campus daily, with occasional flexibility depending on the COOâ™s schedule and institutional needs. #LI-ONSITE

SALARY RANGE

$75,000 - $85,000

WHY JOIN US?

This is an extraordinary opportunity to work closely with a visionary leader and contribute meaningfully to a forward-thinking institution thatâ™s reshaping the future of higher education. Youâ™ll be at the nexus of strategy, operations, and innovation in a role that grows with your impact.

BENEFITS AT THE NEW SCHOOL

The New School is committed to supporting the well-being and success of our faculty and staff. We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees and their eligible dependents. Highlights include:

• Health & Wellness

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Financial Wellness 

  • Retirement plan administered by TIAA

  • Qualified Transportation Expense Plan

• Work-Life Balance

  • Paid vacation and sick leave, with accruals starting on your first day

  • Paid holidays and floating holidays

  • Workmode & Telework Policy (if applicable)

• Professional Growth

  • Career advancement and professional development opportunities

  • Access to university programs, lectures, and events featuring world-renowned speakers and organizations

  • Tuition waiver benefit for eligible employees and dependents

• Additional Perks

  • Employee discounts with local vendors and service providers

About The New School

The New School, a leading university in downtown New York City, offers degree and nondegree academic programs in design, the social sciences, the liberal arts, management, the arts, and media. Students benefit from small classes, superior resources, and renowned faculty members who practice what they teach. Continuing education courses and public programs place the university at the center of New York’s cultural and intellectual life.

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