Academic Initiatives Strategist

If you’re passionate about building a better future for individuals, communities, and our country—and you’re committed to working hard to play your part in building that future—consider WGU as the next step in your career. Driven by a mission to expand access to higher education through online, competency-based degree programs, WGU is also committed to being a great place to work for a diverse workforce of student-focused professionals. The university has pioneered a new way to learn in the 21st century, one that has received praise from academic, industry, government, and media leaders. Whatever your role, working for WGU gives you a part to play in helping students graduate, creating a better tomorrow for themselves and their families. The salary range for this position takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. At WGU, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their position, and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is:   Grade: Professional 309 Pay Range: $82,700.00 - $124,000.00 Job Description The Academic Initiatives Strategist plays a key role in developing and implementing academic initiatives at the University that create opportunities for students and support the university's Key Results. This position collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the successful execution of academic strategic initiatives. The role is instrumental in analyzing, designing, and implementing solutions that improve student outcomes and contribute to the learn-and-work ecosystem.   Job Duties Develops and proposes new academic initiatives and programs.

Manages specific high-impact initiatives.

Implements innovative solutions to advance academic initiatives.

Supports change management efforts for cross-functional implementation.

Analyzes data and gathers insights into program and student performance. Evaluates program effectiveness and suggest refinements. Contributes to efforts supporting access and completion for underserved populations. Uses data analysis to inform decision-making and strategy refinement.

Engages with internal stakeholders across departments. Participates in external partnerships to support initiative goals. Coordinates cross-departmental efforts to enhance student success.

Researches current trends in the learn-and-work ecosystem. Develops expertise in areas such as student pathways, skills-based practices, and digital credentialing. Contributes to the university's knowledge base on innovative academic practices.

Prepares comprehensive reports and presentations on academic strategies and outcomes. Communicates project status and results to relevant stakeholders.

Identifies and researches potential grant opportunities. Contributes significantly to grant proposal writing and development. Assists in managing awarded grants, including budget oversight and reporting.

Provides mentorship to inspire and develop colleagues.

Performs other job-related duties as assigned. KSAs Solid understanding of current trends and challenges in higher education, particularly related to student success and career pathways

Knowledge of project management methodologies and best practices in academic settings

Understanding of data analysis techniques and their application in evaluating academic programs

Familiarity with innovative educational practices, including skills-based learning and digital credentialing

Knowledge of grant writing processes and funding opportunities in higher education

Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and derive actionable insights

Proficient project management skills, including planning, execution, and monitoring of