Associate Vice Provost of Professional Education and Business Partnerships

Thomas Maier serves as the Associate Vice Provost of Professional Education and Business Partnerships at the University of San Francisco. Dr. Maier has served as a faculty member in the School of Management (SOM) since 2013 and as Director of Executive Education for SOM, overseeing strategic initiatives to enhance the professional development of students and executives. His commitment to advancing organizational science and management practices was further demonstrated through his executive directorship of the Malloy Center for Organizational Science Consulting at USF.

Dr. Maier brings a wealth of industry experience to his new role, with over two decades dedicated to hotel/restaurant operations and development. He held key leadership positions such as Director of Food and Beverage and Hotel Operations Vice President for esteemed hospitality giants like Starwood Hotels and Red Lion Hospitality Corporations. His practical insights and hands-on expertise in these roles have enriched our students' learning by providing a real-world understanding of the dynamic business landscape.

After receiving a BS in Hospitality/Tourist Enterprises from Rochester Institute of Technology and a MA in Human Development from Salve Regina University, Professor Maier earned a PhD in Leadership Philosophy from Gonzaga University. His current research interests lie in the area of service system design and automation. A thought leader in the field, Dr. Maier continues to bridge the gap between academia and industry, fostering innovation and excellence in both realms. His passion for education, coupled with a robust background in business operations, positions him as a valuable asset to academic and business communities alike.

In his new role, Dr. Maier will be working with business and organizational partners to develop cutting edge professional education offerings and certificate programs across the various University academic programs. Drawing from the University of San Francisco Jesuit mission and values, the professional education and business partnership initiatives will be centered on: (1) Sustainability and climate change, (2) Technological transformation and (3) Health and well-being.