Executive Director - EMU at Lancaster

Job Title: Executive Director

Department: EMU at Lancaster

Supervisor: Provost

FLSA Classification: Exempt

Schedule: Regular, 12 mo., FT, M-F 8am-5pm

Job Summary:

Eastern Mennonite University (EMU) seeks an innovative Executive Director to lead our Lancaster, Pennsylvania instructional site, driving strategic growth, and program growth, fostering vital partnerships, with an eye towards fiscal sustainability. This leader will develop market-responsive academic programs while ensuring strong financial performance and advancing EMU's core values of: academic excellence, peace and justice, and active faith. The Lancaster site fosters a vibrant learning environment and collaborates closely with local organizations and businesses to meet the educational needs of the region and beyond. The Executive Director reports directly to the Provost.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic vision and leadership for EMU at Lancaster's growth and development for non-credit, undergraduate, graduate and online offerings in alignment with EMU’s growth goals and Strategic Plan
• Lead development and execution of Lancaster campus strategic initiatives aligned with EMU's Strategic Plan
• Identify and launch innovative non-credit and credit bearing academic programs that meet workforce needs in collaboration with Continuing and Professional Education (CAPE) and the Deans
• Champion a culture of innovation and collaboration across all university constituencies
• Drive program growth through strategic partnerships with business, education, and nonprofit sectors
• Oversee Lancaster site financial resources and budget with focus on sustainable fiscal targets and growth
• Oversee Lancaster campus operations and collaborate with university leadership
• Serve on committees such as Provost’s Council and other university committees, local and regional committees
• Collaborate with Deans on degree and certificate programs (Leadership and Organizational Management/ Aviation Concentration and Graduate Teacher Education)
• Manage facility resources and lease agreements
• Supervise and develop staff (Associate Registrar, Business Operations Specialists Operations, Associate Director of Marketing and Communications, Executive Assistant, Recruitment and Enrollment Specialist, CNA Program Coordinator)
• Lead strategic enrollment and marketing initiatives in partnership with VP for Enrollment and Associate Director of Marketing and Communications
• Direct research, development, and implementation of new non-credit and for-credit programs (online, in person, graduate and undergraduate)
• Monitor program performance metrics and student retention
• Ensure programs maintain accreditation compliance (SACSCOC, CAEP, PDE etc.)
• Facilitate professional development for staff
• Foster collaborations between Lancaster and Harrisonburg campuses
• Build strategic partnerships with regional employers and community organizations
• Serve as Lancaster representative on key university committees
• Maintain relationships with higher education and professional networks
• Ensure a welcoming and inclusive environment for staff and students
• Amplify EMU’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Experience with program development and implementation
• Experience working with diverse populations
• Experience with online learning and/or technology in higher education
• Experience working in higher education settings
• Knowledge of the Lancaster community and its educational needs
• Demonstrated leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Strong financial management and budgeting skills
• Strategic thinking and innovative problem-solving skills
• Outstanding leadership and team development skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple complex initiatives
• Proficiency with technology and data-informed decisions making
• Ability to travel for meetings and conferences off campus, which may include some overnight travel.

Education and Experience:

Master's degree in higher education administration, business administration, or a related field required. Minimum of 3 years of experience in higher education administration or equivalent, with a strong preference for experience in adult or non-traditional education, budget oversight or financial management.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to sit and use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, and climb or balance. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Directly supervises full-time and part-time staff. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.