Interim Executive Director (On-site, Columbia SC)

A higher education institution requires an experienced executive leader to provide immediate stabilisation and transformational leadership during a period of significant departmental upheaval. The division is facing organisational, operational, and cultural challenges that demand decisive action, objective assessment, and rapid implementation of corrective measures ahead of recruiting a permanent Executive Director.

Over a 9 to 12 month engagement, the Interim Executive Director will lead a comprehensive transformation initiative. This includes restructuring reporting lines and staffing models, addressing performance management issues, restoring accountability and operational discipline, improving collaboration with campus stakeholders, and establishing governance frameworks. The role also involves documenting transition plans and preparing internal leadership for long-term success.

• Lead all departmental operations and supervise managers, supervisors, and professional staff
• Establish performance expectations, monitor outcomes, and address personnel issues in partnership with Human Resources
• Drive organisational change and culture transformation, including restructuring reporting relationships and staffing models
• Manage departmental budgets and make timely resource allocation decisions
• Ensure compliance with university policies, security standards, audit requirements, and regulatory obligations
• Develop succession planning documentation and transition materials for incoming permanent leadership

• 3 or more years of experience leading executive organisational transformation and change management
• 3 or more years of experience with executive leadership of large, complex technology organisations
• 3 or more years of experience in personnel management, coaching, and performance accountability
• Bachelor's degree with 8 or more years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and certification
• Must be a South Carolina resident or willing to relocate to SC prior to commencement at own expense
• Experience implementing governance and operational maturity frameworks, preferably within higher education

Chandra Technologies, Inc is a technology staffing and solutions firm that places experienced professionals into interim and project-based roles across government, higher education, and enterprise environments. The company operates primarily across the United States.