Business Manager Center for Ocean Enterprise
The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Business Manager Center for Ocean Enterprise.
Location
Marine Research Center
1030 West Pier, Port of Gulfport
Gulfport, Mississippi, 39501
United States
Division
Ocean Enterprise
Employment Status
Full Time
Posting Close Date
September 17, 2026
Special Instructions to Applicants
Must be able to obtain a TWIC (Transportation Workers Identification Credential)
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).
Job Summary
The Business Manager for The Roger F. Wicker Center for Ocean Enterprise (COE) oversees the Center’s administrative and business operations, including tenant and partner relations, staffing coordination, facility operations, agreements, and internal business processes. The position supports the Executive Director with operational planning, business development, and process improvement and coordinates with COE staff, University offices, and external partners to ensure efficient and compliant operations.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
- Oversees day-to-day administrative and business operations of the COE, including operational workflows, space utilization, facility access, and resource coordination. Works with COE staff to support scheduling, events, visitors, and other operational needs.
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Serves as a primary liaison to tenant companies and external partners utilizing COE facilities and resources. Supports the Executive Director with business development and partnership opportunities, coordinates facility and service needs, and ensures compliance with applicable lease terms, facility requirements, and University and Center policies.
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Coordinates staffing and HR-related administrative processes, including recruitment support, hiring documentation, onboarding, training coordination, payroll submissions, timekeeping verification, and required records. Works with University Human Resources, hiring managers, and COE leadership to facilitate staffing processes and requirements.
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Coordinates the administrative processing of leases, service agreements, research agreements, and other business arrangements. Works with companies, government partners, University Counsel, and appropriate University offices to facilitate review, approval, execution, payment, and recordkeeping.
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Supports the Executive Director in operational planning and the development and implementation of Center policies, procedures, and business processes. Evaluates workflows, identifies operational needs, and recommends improvements to enhance efficiency and service delivery.
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Collaborates with the Financial Coordinator and Administrative Operations Coordinator to coordinate Center business activities, including budget planning, grants and projects, procurement, purchasing, travel, contract administration, financial processes, and other administrative operations.
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Maintains operational records and documentation, supports compliance with University and Center requirements, and promotes effective customer service and working relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Business Administration, Management, Finance, Public Administration, or a related field and three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in business operations, administration, project coordination, or a related area.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
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Knowledge of business and administrative operations, practices, and procedures.
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Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills.
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Ability to manage multiple priorities, projects, and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
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Ability to coordinate operational processes and work effectively across functional areas.
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Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with internal and external stakeholders.
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Ability to analyze operational needs and recommend process improvements.
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Proficiency with Microsoft Office and other business and administrative software applications.
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Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and maintain effective working relationships.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in business operations, facilities operations, contract administration, grants administration, or project management. Experience working with external business or government partners and coordinating leases, service agreements, or similar business arrangements. Master’s degree in Business Administration or a related field and/or Project Management Professional (PMP) certification preferred.
About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.
