Job Description

Job DetailsJob Location: The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research - Danville, VA 24540Position Type: Full TimeEducation Level: Master's DegreeTravel Percentage: NegligibleJob Shift: DayJob Category: ManagementPay, Perks, and Benefits
The Chief of Staff position offers a competitive salary commensurate with qualifications, experience, and the scope of the role. IALR provides a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee well-being, professional growth, and work-life balance.
Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plan options; paid time off and holidays; and access to professional development opportunities. IALR is committed to creating an environment where employees are supported, empowered, and able to focus on advancing the organization’s mission and long-term impact.
This is an onsite role based in Danville, Virginia.
How You Will Help the Team
As Chief of Staff, you will serve as a trusted strategic partner to the President and a senior leader across the organization. This inward-facing role plays a critical part in advancing IALR’s mission by driving executive-level initiatives, ensuring alignment across divisions, and providing leadership continuity. You will help translate strategy into action, support effective decision-making, and strengthen organizational effectiveness.
What You Will Do
Serve as a senior advisor and strategic partner to the President, supporting organization-wide priorities and initiatives
Act on behalf of the President as needed, including leading meetings, making decisions, and representing IALR internally
Provide executive-level coordination and oversight across leadership areas, ensuring alignment with IALR’s mission and strategic plan
Lead and manage complex, cross-functional initiatives with significant organizational impact
Support strategic planning, execution, and performance monitoring at the executive level
Identify and implement improvements to internal processes, policies, and organizational effectiveness
Serve as a liaison for internal and external stakeholders engaging with the executive team
Participate in executive team discussions to identify organizational barriers and drive solutions
Contribute to succession planning and long-term organizational stewardship
Qualifications
Your Knowledge and Expertise
Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in business administration, public administration, organizational leadership, or a related field preferred. An equivalent combination of advanced education and significant executive‑level experience may be considered.
12+ years of progressive leadership experience, including operating at the executive or enterprise level in complex organizations
8+ years of experience driving and shaping organizational strategy in partnership with senior leadership
7+ years leading cross‑functional, organization‑wide initiatives that require alignment, influence, and accountability across multiple teams
5+ years managing portfolios of high‑impact initiatives, including prioritization, governance, risk management, and execution
5+ years of experience improving organizational operations, processes, or governance to increase effectiveness and alignment
Demonstrated ability to serve as a trusted executive partner with strong judgment, discretion, and the ability to navigate sensitive and high‑stakes matters
Strong executive communication skills, including the ability to frame strategic issues, support decision‑making, and maintain momentum on critical priorities
Experience acting on behalf of a senior leader and representing leadership intent in meetings and internal forums when needed
What Makes This Role Different
This is a highly trusted, senior leadership role with broad organizational visibility and influence. The Chief of Staff provides continuity, clarity, and strategic momentum across IALR, working closely with executive leadership to shape the future of the organization. In the absence of the President, this role provides executive oversight and leadership continuity.
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.