The provost and executive vice chancellor is UCI's chief academic and operating officer. Under the direction of the chancellor, this position assumes primary responsibility for the academic and organizational functioning of the campus and the advancement of the University's missions in research, teaching and service.

The provost plays a primary role in the development and implementation of academic programs; planning for faculty recruitment and retention; day-to-day campus operations, including budget allocations and capital finances; and the conception, design and implementation of major campus initiatives. The provost collaborates with the campus' vice chancellors, vice provosts, deans, the University Librarian, CEO of UCI Health, associate chancellor for sustainability, Academic Senate leadership and chief officers for innovation and global affairs. The provost also serves as liaison between the central administration and the broader campus community, frequently meeting with a range of campus units and groups to convey important information and foster dialogue in support of UCI's strategic goals.