Senior Director, Purdue Memorial Union & Auxiliary Services

Purdue University is a prestigious public research university located in West Lafayette, Indiana. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and inclusivity, Purdue fosters a vibrant community that supports student success and impacts the global community through research, education, and engagement. Administrative Operations at Purdue University plays a crucial role in supporting the day-to-day operations and strategic vision of the campus. This division ensures that essential services such as facilities management, custodial services, maintenance, and auxiliary operations are efficiently managed to create an environment conducive to learning, collaboration, and growth.

The role of Senior Director at Purdue Memorial Union (PMU) and Auxiliary Services Operations is a senior leadership position responsible for overseeing a wide array of dynamic and high-visibility campus venues and services. These include the Purdue Memorial Union, Stewart Center, Krach Leadership Center, the Union Club Hotel, conference and event services, and retail dining operations. The Senior Director serves as a key strategist and operational leader, driving the vision and execution of vibrant student engagement spaces, hospitality, and event experiences that align with Purdue's mission and enhance its reputation.

In this role, the Senior Director provides executive leadership to ensure these facilities and services offer safe, efficient, and exceptional experiences for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. The position emphasizes strategic development, operational policy formulation, and business growth initiatives designed to sustain and elevate the quality of auxiliary services. Collaboration is central to this role, requiring partnership with university leaders and external stakeholders to strengthen Purdue’s public image and foster an inclusive, innovative campus culture.

The Senior Director leads a high-performing team dedicated to service excellence, inclusivity, safety, and reliability. Additionally, the role involves managing contracted auxiliary operations such as the Union Club Hotel and Retail Dining & Catering services, ensuring operations are aligned with the university’s strategic priorities and financial goals. This leadership role demands a deep understanding of large-scale facility management, hospitality, auxiliary services, financial acumen, and strategic planning within a complex institutional environment.

Candidates for this position typically have a bachelor’s degree in business, hospitality management, or a related field, along with ten or more years of senior leadership experience in higher education business operations, auxiliary services, hospitality, or comparable sectors. Preferred qualifications include a master’s degree and demonstrated expertise in financial management, contract negotiation, strategic growth, and team leadership. The Senior Director must also show a strong commitment to fostering inclusive environments and driving continuous improvement in service quality and operational sustainability.

Purdue University offers a stable and enriching work environment with competitive pay, a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans with immediate university contributions, paid time off, and opportunities for professional development. Joining Purdue in this leadership capacity means playing a pivotal role in shaping campus life, supporting meaningful student experiences, and contributing to a legacy of excellence and innovation across its vibrant campus community.