Assistant Manager – Strategy and Partner RelationsOffice of Strategy and Planning | New York University Abu Dhabi

Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Salary: Competitive
Date Posted: February 14, 2025

About New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD)

NYU Abu Dhabi is a pioneering research university and liberal arts institution that draws from the strengths of the NYU global network. It is committed to excellence in teaching, research, and fostering intercultural understanding. With students and faculty from around the world, NYUAD plays a leading role in advancing knowledge and addressing shared global challenges.

Position Summary: Assistant Manager – Strategy and Partner Relations

UAE Nationals are strongly encouraged to apply.

NYU Abu Dhabi is seeking an Assistant Manager for Strategy and Partner Relations within the Office of Strategy and Planning. Reporting to the Director, the Assistant Manager will represent NYUAD's strategies, programs, and interests at the government-university level. This position supports internal strategy development, project management, partner engagement, and the creation of reports and documentation that inform leadership and advocate for the university's objectives.

This role requires a strategic communicator with strong analytical and project management skills, capable of navigating complex institutional and governmental landscapes.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Planning and Analysis

• Lead and support internal strategy development efforts, managing stakeholders and aligning internal goals.
• Conduct quantitative and qualitative analysis, ensuring data integrity and consistency in reports for both leadership and external partners.
• Manage NYUAD’s annual planning process by tracking and aligning key departmental objectives.
• Maintain and improve strategic visibility across the university to ensure effective implementation of institutional goals.

Partner Relations and Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as a liaison between NYUAD and key government partners, ensuring coordinated and effective communication.
• Prepare reports, memos, and presentations that advocate for NYUAD’s strategic interests to internal leadership and external boards.
• Anticipate stakeholder concerns and formulate clear strategies and responses.
• Support senior leaders during engagements with government officials and advisory boards.

Reporting and Documentation

• Establish and maintain electronic repositories of department-related documentation, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality.
• Support development of high-quality written materials, including reports and briefing notes for government and internal audiences.
• Conduct background research and document internal processes to support the department's activities.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Data Analysis, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in strategy, government relations, or higher education administration.
• Strong skills in written and verbal communication, particularly in English.
• Excellent research, data analysis, and project management capabilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Ability to work with discretion on sensitive and confidential matters.
• Strong interpersonal and intercultural skills; ability to build consensus and work across diverse teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Public Policy, Communications, Higher Education Administration, or related field.
• Professional certification or advanced diploma in a related area.
• Knowledge of government budgeting and oversight procedures, especially in the UAE, Qatar, or Gulf region.
• Arabic language proficiency.
• Experience with university-government relations or in a similar academic setting.

About the Institution

NYU Abu Dhabi is a degree-granting research university offering undergraduate and graduate programs across arts, sciences, humanities, social sciences, and engineering. Together with NYU New York and NYU Shanghai, it forms the backbone of NYU’s global network. As a leading academic hub in the Arab world, NYUAD is committed to scholarly excellence, research innovation, and fostering cross-cultural exchange.

To apply, visit the NYU Abu Dhabi careers portal and submit your application, including a current resume and a detailed cover letter outlining your qualifications for the role.