Director of Operations, MPS Data Visualization & Communication (DV&C)

Job Title: Director of Operations

Job Posted: September 9, 2025

Department: MPS Data Visualization & Communication (DV&C)

Reports to: Department Chair

Schedule: Full-time, Monday–Friday; 9 am - 5 pm

Salary: $60,000/Annual - Non-Exempt (Overtime Eligible)

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the guidance of the Department Chair, the Director of Operations will lead the day-to-day and strategic operations of the new MPS Data Visualization & Communication (DV&C) program at the School of Visual Arts (SVA). This is a unique opportunity to help shape and launch a graduate program at the intersection of design, data, and communication, where creativity meets critical thinking to inspire real-world impact.

As a founding team member, you'll support the Chair, faculty, and students while overseeing key processes that ensure an inspiring, collaborative, and efficient environment. The ideal candidate is organized, proactive, and excited by the chance to build a program from the ground up—fostering a culture that values innovation, inclusion, and empathy.

The MPS Data Visualization & Communication program is designed to develop a new generation of creative leaders who transform how the world understands and uses data. As the DV&C program will bring together left-brain logic and right-brain creativity, the Director of Operations champions an environment that values collaboration, flexibility, and empathy. The inaugural class will begin in Fall 2026, with recruitment and planning underway throughout the 2025–2026 academic year. Learn more about the program here: http://sva.edu/mpsdataviz.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Partner with the Department Chair on curriculum planning, program strategy, and special projects.
• Lead year-round recruitment and promotional efforts, including studio tours and applicant coordination for potential students and external partners worldwide.
• Serve as the academic advisor for students; manage course registration, graduation requirements, and ongoing advisement.
• Oversee day-to-day operations, including facilities, equipment, and classroom needs.
• Coordinate scheduling for classes, faculty, guest lectures, and special events.
• Ensure alignment with SVA policies and academic standards.
• Maintain accurate records of student enrollment, grades, attendance, and department budgets.
• Coordinate onboarding, orientation, and community-building events.
• Liaise with SVA Facilities, Security, and IT to ensure smooth physical and technical operations—AV, network, hardware, and materials for interactive installations.
• Ensure compliance with ADA and accessibility standards across program spaces and communications.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in administrative, operational, or program management roles, preferably within higher education, design/tech, or creative industries.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATION:

• Familiarity with Data Visualization, Data Science, or Analytics industry and working knowledge of technical best practices strongly preferred.
• Experience with higher education systems, protocols, and administrative processes preferred.
• Background in design, creative production, or studio environments preferred.
• Experience in higher education operations and academic programming strongly preferred.
• Experience working in or supporting art, design, or data-focused programs, ideally within a graduate or academic environment.
• Experience supervising teams, including student workers and external vendors.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Dropbox, and Adobe Creative Cloud.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, timelines, and logistics in a start-up environment.
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills (written, verbal, and digital).

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of data visualization, data science, and/or analytics concepts.
• Skill in project management, planning, and logistics coordination.
• Skill in effective written, verbal, and digital communication, including content creation for editorial and promotional purposes.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks simultaneously and prioritizing.
• Ability to lead, collaborate, and problem-solve.
• Ability to train others.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and exercise sound judgment.
• Ability to work in a creative, fast-paced environment with a collaborative, solution-oriented mindset.
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with other employees, students, and stakeholders (external vendors).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OR WORK CONDITIONS:

• Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 pm EST
• Opportunity to work in a hybrid environment for the first year; remote schedule will change thereafter.
• Work schedule may vary contingent on departmental needs, and to work additional hours outside of the regular work schedule, including after-hours, holidays, and weekends.
• While working remotely, you will be required to maintain the same hours of work as would be performed in the office; follow the department's procedures in completing assigned job tasks; and be available during the employee’s working hours via the department's established communication methods (i.e., Google chat, Slack, phone, etc.)
• Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a desk or computer.
• Proficiency in typing, using a mouse, and handling office equipment.
• Ability to carry and lift objects up to 10-20 lbs., such as files or office equipment

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

To be considered for the position, applicants should submit the following:

• Resume/Curriculum vitae
• Cover letter detailing one’s qualifications and interest in the position that highlights your professional experience
• Three (3) professional references - names and complete contact information. References will not be contacted without first notifying the top candidate.
• (Optional) A portfolio or work samples demonstrating your skills and experience.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

WORKING AT SVA

The School of Visual Arts has been a leader in the education of artists, designers, and creative professionals for more than seven decades. With a faculty of distinguished working professionals, a dynamic curriculum, and an emphasis on critical thinking, SVA is a catalyst for innovation and social responsibility. Comprising over 7,000 students at its Manhattan campus and over 41,000 alumni from 128 countries, SVA also represents one of the most influential artistic communities in the world. For more information about the College's 30 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

Click here to learn what it's like to work at SVA.

The School of Visual Arts is an equal-opportunity employer. Diversity and inclusion is a core principles of the College. SVA enjoys a community that represents a significant number of historically underrepresented communities, ethnic and religious backgrounds, gender identities, diverse abilities, and foreign countries, and all are encouraged to apply.