Kansas State University (K-State) invites nominations and applications for the role of Chief of Staff to the President (COS). Reporting to the President, the next COS will serve as President Richard Linton's senior advisor and essential partner for advancing institutional priorities, enhancing organizational alignment, and ensuring the effective execution of presidential initiatives.
Located in Manhattan, KS, the Chief of Staff will operate at the center of institutional leadership, helping to translate the President’s vision into action while ensuring that the President’s time, attention, and influence are focused on the university’s highest-impact opportunities.
The Chief of Staff will provide counsel on complex issues, anticipate emerging challenges and opportunities, and prepare the President for successful engagement across a wide range of internal and external settings. This individual will play a critical role in coordinating across senior leadership, fostering alignment, and ensuring follow-through on key institutional priorities and commitments.
The Chief of Staff will also lead special projects and institutional initiatives on behalf of the President, bringing structure, accountability, and momentum to efforts that span multiple units and stakeholders. In doing so, the Chief of Staff will help advance a culture of collaboration, clarity, and results.
Additionally, the role serves as a key connector between the President and the broader university and external community. The Chief of Staff will strengthen relationships with faculty, staff, students, governing boards, community partners, and public officials, and will represent the President as appropriate.
This opportunity comes at an important moment for Kansas State University, as the institution continues to build momentum, enhance its national profile, and further define and strengthen the Chief of Staff function within a fast-paced, collaborative leadership environment. The successful candidate will bring strategic acumen, exceptional judgment, and a deep commitment to institutional mission to help the university continue its upward trajectory.
WittKieffer is assisting Kansas State University in this search. For fullest consideration, candidate materials should be received by July 31, 2026. Applications should include, as separate documents, a CV or resume and a letter of interest addressing the themes in the profile available at www.wittkieffer.com.
Application materials should be submitted through WittKieffer’s candidate portal using the buttons above or below.
Nominations and inquiries can be directed to Sandra Chu ([email protected]) and Kim Migoya ([email protected]).
Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.
Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.