Managing Director of The Data Mine at Purdue Indy

1. Job Overview:

Purdue University’s College of Science is seeking a collaborative and strategic leader to serve as the Managing Director of The Data Mine at Purdue University Indianapolis. This position provides an opportunity to guide the continued growth and success of a nationally recognized learning community and experiential learning program that connects students, faculty, and industry partners through data-driven experiences.

The Managing Director serves as the primary site-level leader for The Data Mine in Indianapolis, overseeing program delivery while fostering strong relationships across academic, administrative, and external partner communities. This role plays an important part in supporting student success, student-industry projects, and workforce readiness while ensuring alignment with broader program goals and university priorities.

Why Purdue Indianapolis and The Data Mine?

The Data Mine provides a distinctive environment where students engage in interdisciplinary, industry-connected learning experiences that prepare them for future careers. As Managing Director, you will have the opportunity to help shape program growth, expand meaningful partnerships, and contribute to initiatives that directly impact student success and talent development.

Join Purdue University and play a key role in advancing innovative learning experiences while helping students connect classroom knowledge with real-world opportunities.

2. Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the growth, implementation, and ongoing operations of The Data Mine at Purdue Indianapolis
• Provide strategic direction and oversight for program activities, ensuring high-quality experiences for students and partners
• Coordinate academic, administrative, and partnership initiatives to support program objectives and campus engagement
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, industry partners, and university leadership to strengthen program impact and visibility
• Support student engagement, retention, and career readiness through professional development opportunities, mentorship initiatives, and industry-connected experiences
• Facilitate partnerships that expand access to internships, applied learning projects, and experiential education opportunities
• Serve as a subject matter expert and key resource regarding The Data Mine's mission, programs, and outcomes
• Identify and address emerging challenges while implementing solutions that support effective program delivery and sustainable growth
• Monitor program performance and contribute to continuous improvement efforts aligned with college and university goals
• Represent The Data Mine within Purdue Indianapolis and throughout the broader Purdue community

3. Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Minimum of six (6) years of progressively responsible experience in program administration, operations, partnerships, or related roles, including:
• Supporting or leading complex academic, administrative, or outreach programs
• Coordinating work across multiple stakeholders such as faculty, staff, students, and external partners
• Managing large projects or initiatives with multiple components and timelines
• Contributing to planning, process development, and continuous improvement efforts
• Demonstrated ability to analyze problems, gather information, and navigate evolving or undefined challenges

4. Required Skills:

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, timelines, and stakeholders
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with faculty, students, corporate partners, and university colleagues
• Effective relationship-building skills with internal and external partners
• Experience coordinating and supporting complex programs or initiatives
• Ability to manage and navigate legal, financial, and operational agreements in coordination with appropriate university offices
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including communicating across academic and non-academic audiences and with internal and external audiences
• Analytical and problem‑solving skills to address evolving and undefined challenges
• Adaptability and flexibility in dynamic, growth‑oriented environments
• Attention to detail with consistent follow‑through and accountability

5. Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree
• Experience working in higher education, experiential learning programs, or student success initiatives
• Experience developing or supporting corporate, industry, or community partnerships
• Experience supporting career development, skills‑based programming, research, or internship opportunities for students
• Familiarity with data‑driven or technology‑enabled programs, without requiring technical specialization

6. Experience Requirements:

• Minimum of six (6) years of progressively responsible experience in program administration, operations, partnerships, or related roles

7. Additional Job Information:

• Employment type: Exempt (FLSA: Exempt). (Note: job posting indicates FLSA: Exempt and Career Stream: Professional 4)
• Work mode: On-site
• Notice period: (not specified in source)
• Locations: Indianapolis, IN; Marion County, IN; Indiana, United States
• Application instructions / other notes: Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position. A background check will be required for employment in this position. Retirement eligibility: Immediate Defined Contribution Waiting Period by the university. Benefit statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days. Purdue University is an EOE employer.