The First Generation Success Grant Scaling Manager is a grant-funded, temporary two-year position focused on transforming a tested prototype into a scalable, sustainable model. In the first year, the Manager will lead design, research, and strategic planning efforts. The second year will focus on system development and implementation, culminating in the model’s launch in Fall 2026.
This position advances the university’s commitment to student success by coordinating cross-departmental efforts to scale key initiatives, including proactive enrollment and student services, enhanced early warning systems, targeted staff training, and strategic faculty engagement. The Manager will work closely with internal staff, faculty, and leadership to ensure seamless integration of these initiatives while fostering collaboration and commitment across campus stakeholders.
As a central project leader, the Manager will lay the foundation for institutionalizing best practices and processes to ensure ongoing support for first-generation students. This role requires strong project management experience, exceptional interpersonal skills, and the ability to foster collaboration and commitment among diverse campus stakeholders
A critical component of this role is fostering strong collaboration and communication with external partners, such as Diploma Equity, to ensure the alignment of project outcomes with grant objectives. The Manager will lead meetings with internal and external stakeholders, provide regular updates on progress, and contribute to grant reporting to demonstrate the project’s impact and sustainability. By bridging internal and external efforts, the Manager will establish frameworks that extend the project’s benefits beyond the grant period.
Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Education, Business Administration, Organizational Development, or a related discipline that provides foundational knowledge of key principles applicable to scaling educational programs or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
A minimum of four (4) years of experience in project management, with proven success in leading complex transitions or scaling initiatives and experience with business process mapping, including proficiency in tools such as Visio.
Experience managing projects at mid-size or large higher education institutions.
Experience managing vendor deliverables and expectations.
Demonstrated success working with hybrid teams and multiple delivery methodologies (e.g., Lean, Agile/Scrum).
Demonstrated ability to lead large-scale, grant-funded projects.
Exceptional project management knowledge, including planning, monitoring, reporting, and coordinating complex initiatives.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite , specifically Outlook, Word, Excel (advanced), and PowerPoint (advanced); experience with MS Project is required.
Excellent communication skills (oral, written, and active listening) with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
Strong organizational and analytical skills with proven ability to identify and recommend process improvements.
Demonstrated leadership skills, including balancing multiple projects under pressure, meeting deadlines, and adapting leadership style to fit organizational culture.
Solid understanding of how individuals and teams navigate transformational change.
Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and crisis-resolution abilities.
Ability to prioritize, delegate, and manage time effectively in a dynamic environment.
Proven relationship management skills with internal stakeholders, including senior leadership, peers, and colleagues.
Strong presentation and interpersonal skills with the ability to motivate and build teams.
Self-starter with the ability to operate effectively in unstructured organizations.
Ability to define problems, collect and analyze data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
Ability to travel throughout the academic year
Must possess a valid driver’s license and driving record acceptable to the University by the University’s insurance carrier.
At Oakland University, our students learn and grow in the epicenter of opportunity. OU is a public doctoral research institution in Greater Metro Detroit that promotes a global perspective amid an inclusive, close-knit community. We empower nearly 16,000 graduate and undergraduate students with experiential education and diverse opportunities. Our 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio enhances student-centered, personalized instruction. We pride ourselves in offering flexible class schedules, state-of-the-art facilities and supportive student services. On a campus infused with academics, arts and Division I athletics, our Golden Grizzlies set the pulse of our community.
With a $1 billion economic footprint, Oakland University is a regional powerhouse with an international reach. Internships and research opportunities with corporate partners embolden our students to go beyond the books. By forging relationships with hundreds of businesses, including hospitals, Fortune 500 companies, cities, government agencies and educational institutions, OU connects students to their community, career and beyond.
Oakland’s roots stem from the generosity of Alfred Wilson and Matilda Dodge Wilson. In... 1957, they donated their historic estate and $2 million to Michigan State University to plant the seed for progress by establishing a satellite school, named Michigan State University - Oakland. Since then, OU has flourished, impacting tens of thousands of students who call Oakland University their alma mater.