I. JOB OVERVIEW
Job Description Summary:
Human Resources exists to support the larger mission of the George Washington University in teaching, research and community engagement. We are committed to developing and maintaining a workplace that supports our diverse body of faculty and staff and that upholds each of the university's values. Collectively we serve as advocates for the GW community to consistently provide discreet, valuable and personalized service that is timely and responsive.
The Special Assistant to the Vice President of Human Resources, Chief Human Resources Officer for The George Washington, University provides comprehensive administrative and logistical support to the VP of HR. This position oversees and manages all aspects of event and meeting planning for the executive's office, including but not limited to budgeting, planning, vendor negotiations, contracts, executive preparation and execution. This role plays a vital part in ensuring the efficient operation of the HR leadership office and contributes to the execution of key university-wide HR initiatives, including all-hands meetings, staff engagement events, and leadership team sessions. The Special Assistant is a key liaison across administrative academic and departments, requiring a high degree of professionalism, discretion, and organizational acumen.
Key Responsibilities:
Executive Support:
- Manage the calendar of the VP of HR, prioritizing and scheduling internal and external meetings. Ensure material are available for all meetings on the calendar.
- Prepare meeting materials, presentations, and reports, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
- Draft and edit correspondence, emails, and documentation on behalf of the VP of HR.
- Screen and route incoming communications; prioritize and follow up on issues requiring attention.
- Coordinate domestic and occasional international travel arrangements, including itineraries and expense reports.
Event and Meeting Coordination:
- Plan and assist with HR-sponsored events, including HR all-hands meetings, HR leadership retreat offsites, and campus HR forums.
- Coordinate logistics for HR-led initiatives such as professional development sessions, recognition events, and strategic planning workshops as needed lap top and phone support), and post-event communications or feedback surveys.
- Maintain calendars and agendas for recurring leadership team meetings and HR planning cycles.
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Operational and Project Support:
- Assist in tracking the progress of HR projects and strategic initiatives.
- Support budget tracking and procurement for the HR department's administrative needs and events.
- Maintain and organize files, reports, and documentation with strict confidentiality.
- Serve as a point of contact for internal stakeholders seeking information or coordination with the VP of HR.
- Ensures new staff are set up with appropriate resources and equipment, as well as appropriate training.
- Responsible for supervision of the Administrative Assistant for the front desk
- Overseeing HR administrative operations, including IT asset management and office space across two primary locations.
- Undertaking confidential and high-level writing, research and project management responsibilities.
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Acting as a liaison between departmental and university staff, the VPHR's direct reports, and other stakeholders.- Acts on behalf of the VPHR, when called upon, by attending meetings, facilitating communications, and coordinating completion of tasks with members of the HR leadership team.
This position is located in Foggy Bottom campus and requires occasional travel to Virginia Science and Technology Campus (VSTC). Performs other related duties as assigned.
The omission of specific duties does not preclude the supervisor from assigning duties that are logically related to the position.
Minimum Qualifications:
Qualified candidates will hold a Bachelor's degree in an appropriate area of specialization plus 5 years of relevant professional experience, or, a Master's degree or higher in a relevant area of study plus 3 years of relevant professional experience. Degree must be conferred by the start date of the position. Degree requirements may be substituted with an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
Additional Required Licenses/Certifications/Posting Specific Minimum Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience:
- 5 years of experience supporting senior leadership, preferably in a university or complex organizational setting.
- Experience coordinating large-scale events or leadership meetings is highly desirable.
Skills & Competencies:
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills; ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Strong attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
- High level of discretion and integrity when handling confidential information.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, Zoom, and calendaring tools (e.g., Outlook).
Preferred Attributes:
- Understanding of academic organizational structures and university culture.
- Bachelor's degree, background in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
- Familiarity with HR concepts, compliance standards, and administrative best practices.
- Ability to work effectively with diverse teams across academic and administrative departments.
Hiring Range
$64,483.58 - $106,415.52
GW Staff Approach to Pay
How is pay for new employees determined at GW?
Healthcare Benefits
GW offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes medical, dental, vision, life & disability insurance, time off & leave, retirement savings, tuition, well-being and various voluntary benefits. For program details and eligibility, please visit
II. JOB DETAILS
Campus Location:
Foggy Bottom, Washington, D.C.
College/School/Department:
Human Resource Management and Development (HRM&D)
Family
Administration
Sub-Family
Administrative / Operations
Stream
Individual Contributor
Level
Level 3
Full-Time/Part-Time:
Full-Time
Hours Per Week:
40
Work Schedule:
Monday - Friday 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Will this job require the employee to work on site?
Yes
Employee Onsite Status
On-campus (in person)
Telework:
No
Required Background Check:
Criminal History Screening, Education/Degree/Certifications Verification, Social Security Number Trace, and Sex Offender Registry Search
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Employer will not sponsor for employment Visa status
Internal Applicants Only?
No
Posting Number:
S013719
Job Open Date:
05/22/2025
Job Close Date:
If temporary, grant funded, Sponsored Project funded or limited term appointment, position funded until:
Background Screening
Successful Completion of a Background Screening will be required as a condition of hire.
EEO Statement:
The university is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that does not unlawfully discriminate in any of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.