Oakland, CA

The University of California, Office of the President invites nominations and applications for the role of Associate Vice President, National Laboratories (AVPNL). Reporting to the Vice President, National Laboratories, June Yu, PhD, the AVPNL provides broad strategic and operational support for the UC National Laboratories division (UCNL) of the University of California Office of the President (UCOP).

The UC considers its role supporting the laboratories’ work to be a dimension of its remarkable commitment to public service in the nation’s interest. The federal government depends on the laboratories to bring world-leading expertise and facilities to address the DOE missions of science, security, energy, and the environment.

The University of California (UC) provides contract management and oversight of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) and ensures that UC meets its obligations to the limited liability companies (LLCs) that operate Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). LBNL is managed solely by UC under contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science, with a FY2024 budget of ~$1.1 billion. LLNL (FY2024 budget ~$3 billion) and LANL (FY2024 budget ~$5 billion) are under the purview of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) and managed through Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC and Triad National Security, LLC, respectively.

Reporting to the VPNL, the AVPNL plays an integral role in ensuring UCNL successfully carries out its management oversight responsibilities and in interfacing with key stakeholders to establish strategic plans, objectives, policies, and processes related to Programs and Operations at the UC-affiliated National Laboratories required for the University’s contractual obligations to the federal government. The AVPNL is a key member of UCNL and UCOP and represents UCNL and the University in science and technology (S&T), mission, and operational aspects of the University’s role. The AVPNL works closely with the VPNL in the overall management of the UCNL Division and its total workforce, and in conceptualizing and implementing initiatives to advance UCNL’s interests and strategic priorities.

Qualifications

Required

• MS in science and/or engineering, or equivalent professional experience at a national laboratory or a federal agency relevant to the UC-affiliated NLs and/or equivalent combination of experience/training which includes scientific, engineering or operational line management responsibility. Outstanding record of accomplishment in the operations and programmatic disciplines relevant to the UC-affiliated National laboratories.
• Excellent leadership skills including the ability to work collaboratively and act persuasively in sensitive situations and advanced conflict management skills.
• Highly sophisticated skills in strategy development, systems planning and change management.
• Ability to establish high level objectives and goals and to lead others to develop and accomplish goals in alignment with mission.
• Ability to establish metrics for department and employee goals that measure effectiveness of contributions to efficient operations of department.
• Expert project management skills and experience.
• Knowledge of federal contracting mechanisms.
• Knowledge of financial systems, analysis and reporting techniques; human resources and risk management planning; accounting and payroll.
• Excellent and sophisticated interpersonal skills to effectively lead, motivate and influence others including at the executive level.
• Excellent written and oral communications skills, the ability to work effectively with a diverse population, a willingness to travel, inside and outside of normal business hours, and the ability to work flexibly in a fast-paced, complex higher education environment.
• Active or eligible for a DOE Q-clearance.
• The ability to sustain the extensive travel required of the role.

Preferred

In addition to these required qualifications, the ideal candidate will bring a range of professional and personal attributes that will enhance their success in the role.

• Ph.D. in science and/or engineering.
• Extensive knowledge of the National Labs, operational environment, management and operating contracts, and regulatory requirements.
• Experience with nuclear operations and a classified work environment.

The full position description can be viewed here.

The University of California has retained Opus Partners to conduct the search for the new Associate Vice President, National Laboratories. Craig V. Smith, Senior Partner, and Marisea Rivera, Senior Associate, are supporting the search committee. Please contact Opus via marisea.rivera@opuspartners.net to learn more about the opportunity, to provide a nomination, or to apply. Required application materials include a CV or resume and a letter of interest. The letter should reflect how a candidate’s qualifications and experience match those required for the role.

The University of California, UC Office of the President is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This range accounts for the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience. The budgeted salary range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $385,000 to $405,000. UC offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, vision and retirement plans as well as moving, relocation, and housing assistance.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. For the University of California’s complete nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy, please visit this website:

University of California Policy on Discrimination, Harassment, and Affirmative Action in the Workplace.