Director of Institute Operations

WAWI seeks a Director of Institute Operations (Director) to steward the daily operations of a historic and highly respected institution.

Director of Institute Operations

About the William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis & Psychology (WAWI)

Founded in 1943, the William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis & Psychology (WAWI) is an internationally respected center for psychoanalytic training, clinical services, and scholarly inquiry. Rooted in the Interpersonal tradition, WAWI is guided by the belief that psychological growth emerges through authentic, collaborative human relationships. For more than 80 years, the Institute has advanced an approach to mental health that honors the complexity of individuals, the social conditions that shape their lives, and the ethical responsibility of clinicians to promote healing with dignity.

WAWI offers a full spectrum of rigorous training programs for clinicians at all stages of their careers, including its flagship psychoanalytic training program, specialized psychotherapy programs, continuing education, and clinical internships. Faculty members are nationally recognized leaders in the field and are deeply committed to mentorship, reflective practice, and the integration of contemporary theory with real-world clinical experience. This academic and clinical environment fosters curiosity, intellectual exploration, and a lifelong commitment to learning.

In addition to its educational mission, WAWI provides high-quality, affordable mental health services to diverse communities through its outpatient clinic. The Institute aims to expand access to care by offering treatment that is responsive, compassionate, and grounded in its relational model. Through conferences, publications, and community programming, WAWI also serves as an influential voice in the broader mental health landscape, contributing to public conversations around trauma, identity, inequality, and the evolving practice of psychoanalysis and psychotherapy.

Today, the William Alanson White Institute continues to uphold its founding values while actively engaging with the urgent issues facing contemporary society. With a commitment to inclusion, ethical practice, and interdisciplinary dialogue, WAWI remains a vibrant home for clinicians, scholars, and students dedicated to advancing relational, socially attuned approaches to mental health.

WAWI seeks a Director of Institute Operations (Director) to steward the daily operations of a historic and highly respected institution. Reporting to and collaborating closely with the Executive Director and a dedicated and long-tenured staff, the Director will play a central role in ensuring the Institute's stability, efficiency, and continued excellence. The Executive Director and Director function as a deeply collaborative leadership team, working in concert to guide the Institute and support the staff and community.

This is a unique opportunity for a highly capable operational leader to join a mission-driven organization deeply committed to clinical training, scholarship, and mental health care. The Director will serve as the primary administrative presence for the Institute, supporting faculty, trainees, leadership, Trustees, and staff while managing functions ranging from fiscal oversight and regulatory compliance to facilities management and educational accreditation.

The ideal candidate will bring both strategic and hands‑on leadership, thriving in an environment where no task is too big or too small. As WAWI advances its educational programs, modernizes its operations, and preserves its historic building, the Director will be instrumental in shaping the Institute's next chapter.

• Oversees daily administrative and operational functions within a complex educational and clinical institution.
• Provides strong financial stewardship, including budgeting, forecasting, and audit readiness.
• Leads planning and oversight for organizational infrastructure, including facilities and capital projects.
• Strengthens internal systems and processes to improve efficiency,…