Director, Center for Agribusiness

About the role

Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) seeks a Director for the Center for Agribusiness, in the Lutgert College of Business (LCOB). The Center connects the university to Southwest Florida's agricultural sector and supports the region through applied research, industry engagement, the agribusiness minor, and related educational offerings. The Director will hold the academic rank of Associate or Full Professor in the Department of Economics and Finance. This position is built around three core responsibilities: leading the agribusiness minor and related educational offerings, including curriculum development, course coordination, teaching, and student recruitment; conducting applied research and securing external funding to sustain the Center's operations and activities; and engaging with industry partners and regional stakeholders through activities such as workshops, conferences, or industry events that advance the Center's role in the Southwest Florida agricultural economy. Florida Gulf Coast University is a comprehensive university dedicated to quality education, research, and service. All faculty are expected to be excellent teachers, committed to innovative instruction and effective use of technology, engaged in scholarly activity appropriate to their appointment, and active in service to the College, University, and community. FGCU is building a culture of curiosity, commitment and collaboration. We value employees who successfully work with others and drive positive change through critical thinking and decisive action. If you thrive in an environment of innovation, accountability and mutual respect, you will find a good home here.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership, long-term planning, and operational oversight for the Center, and ensure alignment with University and College priorities.
• Develop and manage the Center's annual budget.
• Develop, implement, and assess the Center’s vision, goals, strategic initiatives, and annual work plans.
• Lead staff recruitment for Center positions in accordance with university, college, and departmental policies.
• Serve as the Center's primary liaison to regional agriculture, including commodity organizations, producers, and industry partners.
• Convene and direct the advisory board and set its agenda in line with the Center's priorities.
• Develop and lead outreach and public service efforts such as industry workshops, conferences, and applied initiatives that advance the Center's role in the Southwest Florida agricultural economy.
• Lead fundraising efforts for the Center and cultivate donor relationships to support the Center's mission.
• Maintain an active research profile and produce peer-reviewed scholarship consistent with appointment at the rank of Associate or Full Professor.
• Identify and pursue external funding opportunities to support the Center's research agenda and operational sustainability.
• Promote excellence in scholarship and service among Center-affiliated faculty and collaborators.
• Engage Lutgert College of Business Alico Chairs to develop annual report and/or research agenda, convene meetings on urban and agriculture issues with local leaders, on externally funded projects