The title “Chief of Staff” has an air of prestige and respect. But it can also cause a bit of confusion. Many may be unaware of the tasks and responsibilities of the position. Or as Madeline Kahn so elegantly put it, “What exactly is it that you… do-do?” (Young Frankenstein, 1974).
Rebecca Roadman (she/her) is the Chief of Staff for Business and Operations, a position she has held since 2021. “It is my responsibility to ensure that we meet our strategic and operational objectives,” says Roadman. “I act on behalf of [Senior Vice Chancellor, Dave DeJong] to mobilize people, solve problems, and make decisions with a mission-centered lens.” That mission is nothing less than providing foundational strength for the entire University—from supporting large capital projects to ensuring every student has a room. “Every action, big or small, needs to be in the best interest of the institution and the people who are a part of it.”
So, what is the average day like for a Chief of Staff? Very similar to Business and Operations as a whole, Roadman’s responsibilities cover a wide variety of tasks across diverse subjects. “Practically, every day is different,” says Roadman. “I do what needs to be done juggling meetings, committee service, projects, operations, and sometimes emergencies.”
Working with so many diverse groups across campus, communication skills are key. In addition to earning her Masters of Public Administration, Roadman has been trained as a focus group facilitator and mediator. “Those listening and communication skills aid me in every interaction I have. I often think of myself as a translator, which aligns with both my education and experiences; as CoS, I continuously translate between stakeholders with different backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.”
Supporting senior leaders’ missions wasn’t what Roadman had in mind when she began her collegiate journey. While many people may attend college with a passion for a specific career, Roadman wasn’t able to nail down her interests to one or two fields. She followed her curiosity and earned a BA from Pitt in Classics (Greek & Latin language) and Religious Studies. After graduating, she continually sought opportunities that offered her a challenge while nurturing her natural curiosity. Over the course of 14 years, Roadman has held positions on both the academic and administrative sides of the University. Her knowledge and experience across different departments has proven very beneficial in her current role. “If you don’t have a particular single passion, follow your curiosity! Being conversant in multiple worlds and being a connector is extremely important.”
Roadman also credits her parents for teaching her how to problem-solve and be resourceful. This DIY attitude has built Roadman’s confidence and competence when faced with any number of issues. She still enjoys the challenge and learning experience of fixing an issue herself. “If something is broken, I try to take it apart and fix it. Even if I can’t fix it, I will take it apart. I have taken my dryer apart 3 times.”
With seven offices under the Business and Operations umbrella, there is a lot to keep Roadman occupied and always something new to learn. “I wish there was more exposure to the incredible work done by B&O staff across all of our responsibility centers—it is complex and so important, but it is easy to take for granted.” The people that make up the departments also inspire Roadman, who has learned a lot from the staff. “People have gratitude and appreciation for each other,” she says. “We are impactful, we get work done and care about quality, safety, stewardship of resources. I have a tremendous amount of respect for the people.”
What is in store for the Chief of Staff heading into a new fiscal year? With organizational changes and new leaders joining the team, Roadman is looking forward to ensuring their success. She also is excited for the future impacts of the B&O-DEI Strategic Advisory Body—a group she was able to create and launch earlier this fiscal year. “I am so proud of the group’s work, and I am eager to implement their initial set of policy recommendations over the new few months.”
As Chief of Staff and a Pitt Alum, does Roadman have an opinion on the ever-present debate on campus— Cathy or The Cathedral? “I am utterly uncompromising on this—The Cathedral! No matter what you call it, I think we can all agree that it is an incredible space to learn and work!”