Director for Research and Economic Development

TITLE: Director for Research and Economic Development

DEPARTMENT: College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources / Land Grant Program

REPORTS TO: Dean, College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources

EFFECTIVE DATE: TBD

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-time

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt

The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITY:

The Director for Research and Economic Development position in the Kentucky State University College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources / Land Grant Program will lead efforts in facilitating private and public partnerships, collaborations, and experiential learning opportunities with industry, community, and educational stakeholders (High School & Collegiate). The Director for Research and Economic Development will drive efforts to establish/expand relationships with KY-based food, agricultural, natural resources, and related private and public entities/companies, with an emphasis on Kentucky’s Bourbon and Equine industries. Initiatives should lead to a portfolio of organizations investing in and aligning with strategic goals/priorities of Kentucky State University. This position will also build pipeline collaborations with faith-based/non-faith-based organizations, local agencies, community organizations, and city and county government/s. This position works with key leaders and decision-makers to create a cohesive, industry-diversified team to support and grow Kentucky State University College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources / Land Grant Program’s strategic efforts.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Provide leadership in the establishment of university research goals and in the implementation of policies and strategies necessary to achieve those goals. Develop, plan, and organize KSU initiatives that create strategic relationships with private and public entities with KSU’s College of Ag/Land Grant programs, (CAHNR/LGP) with an emphasis on the food/beverage industry (bourbon and spirits), equine, and related agricultural and aquaculture opportunities. Create and manage a portfolio of medium-to-large size projects, and their respective project teams of varying sizes, complexity, and backgrounds through the entire project life cycle, including planning, budgeting, implementation, logistics, risk mitigation, and communications/reporting.

• Facilitate routine thought-leader focused discussions with project sponsor(s), stakeholders, department and division management on strategic goals, resources, scheduling, plans and challenges.
• Work with cross-functional teams on assigning tasks, establishing project deliverables and scheduling of those tasks and deliverables.
• Serve on committees for the university, stakeholder groups, and professional associations. Establishes, assists, and/or monitors summer camps / internships (including but not limited to, orientation check-in, and evaluation process) for programs across the CAHNR/LGP. Prepares an annual report each Fall, to include data/reports that track performance against annual goals, including analyzing summer camps/internship evaluations and flagging any areas that need attention. Provide training and relevant educational materials for FFA and Youth & Workforce Development Extension associates.
• Provide an extremely high level of customer service to stakeholders.
• Manage a complex business calendar with a keen sense of prioritization and time management to ensure maximum effectiveness of time use.
• Exercise discretion and judgment to solve complex problems regarding projects, and department/ division-related work.

OTHER DUTIES:   The position will conduct other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS: Master’s degree in public affairs, business administration, economic development, personnel management, educational leadership, community development, public administration, sociology, or a related field. Ten to twelve years of experience in a related field preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:  

•    Evidence of administrative leadership, managerial skills, and the ability to work as a team member.

•    Excellent oral and written communication skills.

•    Knowledge of Extension program development process, evaluation, and reporting.

•    Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.

•    Extensive knowledge of community and economic development and leadership

•    Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

•    Skill in the use of personal computers and related software packages.

•    Initiative, resourcefulness, punctuality, and the ability to work independently are essential.

•    Valid driver’s license.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

•    Extensive travel is required.

•    Work could involve some exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.

•    Requires some standing or walking.

•    Ability to lift 40 lbs.

•    No or very limited exposure to physical risk.

Internal Candidates are Encouraged to Apply

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over the sponsorship of an employment visa

KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer

The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform. The College of Agriculture, Community, and the Sciences strives for inclusive excellence and is interested in qualified candidates who can contribute to this effort through their research, teaching, and/or Extension programs.