Executive Search
Stanford University
Recruiting for Associate Vice Provost for Research Compliance
Stanford University, a prestigious institution known for its cutting-edge research and academic excellence, recently faced the challenge of finding a new Associate Vice Provost for Research Compliance. The position became available due to retirement, and the university sought a highly qualified individual to oversee compliance in areas of human, animal, and stem cell research. Recognizing the complexity and significance of this role, Stanford turned to Another Source for their expertise in higher education recruitment.
The Story
Stanford University’s Office of the Vice Provost and Dean of Research (VPDoR) manages a substantial sponsored research project portfolio exceeding $1.8 billion. The Associate Vice Provost for Research Compliance plays a crucial role in ensuring institutional compliance across various research domains, including human, animal, and stem cell research. This position reports directly to the Vice Provost and Dean of Research and oversees a team of approximately 45 professionals. Stanford’s research endeavors span multiple schools, multidisciplinary institutes, labs, and affiliated hospitals, making the AVP’s role vital for maintaining high standards of compliance and protection.
The Opportunity
With the pending retirement of the previous Associate Vice Provost, Stanford needed to fill a highly visible and complex role responsible for the effectiveness of the Research Compliance Office’s (RCO) programs. The AVP’s responsibilities included maintaining national accreditation status, ensuring compliance with evolving ethical guidelines, and navigating new research and privacy laws. The position demanded visionary leadership to address high-profile regulatory challenges and enhance Stanford’s research enterprise.
Why Another Source
Stanford University has a long-standing relationship with Another Source, relying on our expertise for recruiting key positions. For this search, Stanford required a national search to attract a robust diverse pool of candidates with experience in managing large research portfolios and expertise in systems change, re-engineering, and business process development. The ideal candidate needed to possess expert knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, as well as national accreditation standards.
How Another Source Responded
Another Source’s team operated on an aggressive 30-day timetable to build a robust candidate pool, showcasing our value proposition and differentiator in executive search. During this period, Stanford had the opportunity to define their search committee and prepare for interviews. Another Source identified 139 prospects and engaged with 10 industry influencers to spread the word. This strategic approach resulted in presenting 13 highly qualified candidates to the search committee.
The Result
The search process led to the selection of two semi-finalists, culminating in a successful hire for the Associate Vice Provost for Research Compliance position. Stanford University benefited from Another Source’s comprehensive search strategy, ensuring that the selected candidate met the institution’s high standards and was well-equipped to lead the Research Compliance Office.