Executive Director of the Croft Institute for International Studies

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Position Description

The Croft Institute for International Studies at the University of Mississippi invites applications for the position of Executive Director.  The Executive Director of the Croft Institute for International Studies is a 12-month, executive position whose incumbent is responsible for the management of the Croft Institute and its academic programs, especially the B.A. in International Studies, which falls under the Academic Program Inventory of the College of Liberal Arts.

Departmental Summary

Established in 1997, the Croft Institute for International Studies offers a selective-admission academic program, small classes and first-rate facilities. The Bachelor of Arts degree in International Studies combines the study of global economics, history, politics and social dynamics with the intensive study of languages and cultures in an interdisciplinary curriculum. Students must specialize in one of four thematic areas, one of four world regions, and intensively study a related foreign language. They are required to study abroad for a semester and write an original thesis for graduation.

Job Role Summary

Duties will include managing Croft's academic programs and curriculum; student recruiting, admissions, and advising; working with Croft faculty, who are primarily tenured and tenure-track faculty who hold tenure in academic departments, and overseeing staff; collaborating with the chairs of the academic departments that have Croft faculty; engaging in shared governance with Croft faculty; collaborating collegially with all departments across campus to enhance interdisciplinary engagement and foster a cohesive academic community; setting and managing the unit's budget; serving on Croft senior thesis committees; managing its speaker series and alumni relations; and serving on the Liberal Arts Curriculum and Policy Committee and other University committees.

In addition, the executive director oversees a number of selection committees for scholarships and awards for both academic achievement and service. The executive director also submits an annual report to both the office of the Chancellor and the Croft Board of Trustees and participates in yearly faculty and staff evaluations.

Position Details

Appointment : 12 month

If the individual has qualifications appropriate for appointment in an academic department, the department will be asked to consider the rank and track of the candidate at the time of hire. If an appointment is granted, the position will carry a teaching load not to exceed 1 / 1. The Director appointment will be reviewed formally every four years with a quadrennial review.

Minimum Qualifications

The successful applicant will possess a Ph.D. in one of the humanities or social sciences disciplines, administrative experience, advanced proficiency in a language other than English, and an academic record commensurate with appointment at the rank of full professor or advanced associate professor to the faculty of the University of Mississippi. The successful candidate should also demonstrate a commitment to the recruitment of a wide variety of domestic and international students.

Interview Requirements : Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity / Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Application Procedures

The search committee requires the following items in addition to the online application : a cover letter addressing the applicant's executive experience and view of the discipline of international studies within a university curriculum, a CV, and a list of references.

About the University of MS & Oxford, MS

Founded in 1848, the University of Mississippi (UM), affectionately known to alumni, students and friends as Ole Miss, is Mississippi's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R-1 : Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. The University of Mississippi, consistently named by The Chronicle of Higher Education as a “Great College to Work For,” is located in Oxford, MS, which is ranked one of the “Top 10 Best College Towns.” With more than 24,000 students, UM is the state's largest university and is ranked among the nation's fastest-growing institutions. The University of Mississippi, which has aggressively implemented many health and wellness initiatives for its more than 2,900 employees, has consistently been named one of Mississippi’s Healthiest Workplaces.

Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South”, creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in Oxford’s rich history, small town charm and creative community. Oxford is a one-hour drive south of Memphis, TN and is known as the home of Nobel Prize winning author William Faulkner. Over the years Oxford has also been known for offering exceptional culinary experiences and as the home of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Rebels, there is always something here to immerse yourself in. Oxford has also been featured as a literary and arts destination in such publications as The New York Times, Southern Living, Condé Nast Traveler, and GQ. Among other cultural activities, annual events include the Oxford Film Festival, a thriving local music scene, and the Ford Center Performing Arts Series. Oxford is a vibrant university town, filled with unique shops and galleries, eclectic restaurants and clubs, historic landmarks, and comfortable inns.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.