Department Head - Horticultural Science

About the role

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at North Carolina State University (NC State) invites applications for the position of Head of the Department of Horticultural Science. We seek an engaging, collaborative, and strategic leader committed to advancing excellence in teaching, research, and Extension while fostering a vibrant, collaborative, and forward-looking departmental culture.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and administrative leadership for all departmental teaching, research, and Extension programs.
• Advance a clear vision for program growth, innovation, and national visibility in horticultural science.
• Recruit, mentor, evaluate, and support faculty, staff, and Extension professionals across on-campus and off-campus locations statewide.
• Oversee departmental budgets, personnel, facilities, and resources, ensuring effective stewardship and accountability.
• Foster collaboration within the department, centers, consortiums and other NC State units, including participation in university-wide research initiatives.
• Serve as the primary representative of the department to college and university leadership, industry partners, commodity groups, alumni, and stakeholders.
• Lead development and fundraising efforts to support departmental initiatives, distinguished professorships, graduate student fellowships, and student opportunities.
• Make timely, informed decisions and address complex or challenging issues in support of departmental goals.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree in Horticultural Science or a closely related discipline and have credentials commensurate with appointment to the rank of Professor with tenure.
• Record of outstanding professional achievement in the field with working knowledge of current developments in the discipline.
• A demonstrated record of program extramural funding and knowledge of funding opportunities.
• Be committed to excellence in teaching, research and extension appropriate to a land-grant university.
• Record of success in administrative and personnel management.
• Able to communicate effectively with faculty, staff, students, administrators, commodity groups and the public.

Other Responsibilities

Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities.

Qualifications

• Minimum Education and Experience: Ph.D. degree in Horticultural Science or a closely related discipline and have credentials commensurate with appointment to the rank of Professor with tenure.
• Other Required Qualifications: Record of outstanding professional achievement in the field with working knowledge of current developments in the discipline. A demonstrated record of program extramural funding and knowledge of funding opportunities. Be committed to excellence in teaching, research and extension appropriate to a land-grant university; Record of success in administrative and personnel management. Able to communicate effectively with faculty, staff, students, administrators, commodity groups and the public.
• Preferred Qualifications: N/A
• Required License(s) or Certification(s): Valid NC driver’s license or the ability to obtain within 60 days of start.

Benefits

Wolfpack Perks and Benefits: As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone. What we offer: Medical, Dental, and Vision Flexible Spending Account Retirement Programs Disability Plans Life Insurance Accident Plan Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs 12 Holidays Each Year Tuition and Academic Assistance And so much more! Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.