Associate Dean of Operations

Kentucky State University; Frankfort (KY); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Kentucky State University in Frankfort, KY seeks an Associate Dean of Operations to provide strategic leadership for the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources. You will oversee programs, research, and community engagement, aligning activities with institutional goals and reporting to the Dean and LGP Director.

The role emphasizes faculty development, program assessment, fundraising, and cross‑unit collaboration to advance education, research, and outreach while managing budgets

Qualifications

• Doctorate in Agriculture, Agricultural Sciences, or a related field.
• Experience in administrative leadership and program oversight.
• Ability to supervise and develop faculty and staff across multiple units.

Responsibilities

• Oversee curriculum development and program assessment for undergraduate and graduate programs.
• Support research development and secure external funding for initiatives.
• Contribute to strategic planning and analyze program trends.
• Mentor faculty in professional development and promote diversity and inclusion.
• Enhance student engagement and advise on experiential learning opportunities.
• Strengthen community engagement and relationships with stakeholders.
• Manage budgets and ensure governance and policy alignment.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Communication

Fundraising

Curriculum development

Program assessment

Stakeholder engagement

People management

Education

Doctorate in Agriculture, Agricultural Sciences, or related field

Job description

Job Title

Associate Dean of Operations

Department

College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources

Reports To

Director of LGP / Dean of the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources

Employment Status

Full-Time

Employment Classification

Exempt

Location

100% On Campus - Frankfort, Ky

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.

Principal Purpose of the Job

Reports directly to the Dean of the College of Agriculture and Director of Land Grant Programs at Kentucky State University. The Associate Dean will provide strategic leadership and oversight for the College of Agriculture’s schools and programs, advancing academic programs, research initiatives, and community engagement. This role involves collaborating with faculty, staff, and stakeholders to enhance the college’s mission and ensure alignment with institutional goals. The Associate Dean supports the faculty hiring, promotion, and development functions and will supervise the positions of Associate and Assistant Deans of Academics and the Agricultural Research Director.

Essential Job Functions

• Academic Leadership: Oversee curriculum development and program assessment for undergraduate and graduate programs.
• Research Development: Support faculty in securing funding for research projects and initiatives; facilitate partnerships with industry, government, and community organizations; encourage dissemination of research findings through publications and presentations.
• Strategic Planning: Contribute to the development and implementation of the college’s strategic plan; analyze trends in agricultural-focused education programs and research to inform future directions; assess program effectiveness and make recommendations for improvement.
• Faculty Development: Mentor faculty in professional development and career advancement; promote a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the faculty; assist in recruitment and retention of high-quality faculty members.
• Student Engagement: Enhance student recruitment, retention, and success initiatives; oversee student advising and support services; promote experiential learning opportunities such as internships and research projects.
• Community Engagement: Strengthen relationships with agricultural stakeholders, including farmers, businesses, and government agencies; promote outreach programs that benefit the local and regional community; represent the college at public events and professional conferences.
• Administrative Oversight: Manage budgetary and resource allocation processes for the college; ensure compliance with university policies and accreditation standards; collaborate with the Dean on college governance and policy development.

Qualifications

• Doctorate in Agriculture, Agricultural Sciences, or a related field.
• At least 2 years of experience in administrative positions or processes.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of federal and state financial regulations and university financial policies and procedures.
• Strong leadership and management abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proven track record in research and securing external funding.
• Ability to use independent judgment and manage and impart information to a range of faculty, staff, and clientele.
• Ability to plan, organize, implement, and administer complex curriculum development and program assessment systems and procedures.
• Ability to write reports containing scientific and technical information.
• Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of faculty and/or staff hiring procedures.
• Knowledge of customer service standards and procedures.
• Outstanding interpersonal, community relations skills and the ability to communicate and work effectively within a diverse community.
• Ability to supervise and train employees, including organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
• Employee development and performance management skills.

Physical Requirements

Work is normally performed in an interior office environment. No or very limited physical effort required. No or very limited exposure to physical risk.