Executive Director, Government & Economic Development Institute

Auburn University; Auburn (AL); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Life-Changing Impact

Culture of Excellence

We’re Here for You

Sweet Home Alabama

A Place for Everyone

Job summary

Auburn University’s Government & Economic Development Institute (GEDI) seeks a visionary Director to lead strategic planning, program development, and fiscal management. You will oversee operations, build partnerships with government, civic organizations, and industry, and steer GEDI toward growth and national impact.

This is a non-tenure track faculty leadership role. You will manage budgets, solicit grants, supervise staff, and champion outcomes with metrics.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or higher in a relevant field.
• Excellent written, verbal, and public presentation skills.
• Knowledge of Alabama governmental systems and economic development organizations, with experience building strategic partnerships across sectors.
• At least six years of progressively responsible leadership experience in government, higher education, economic development, or related fields.
• Experience in securing grants, managing budgets, and leading complex programs and teams.
• National and international government/economic development experience and willingness to travel.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the Institute’s strategic vision and long-term priorities.
• Oversee budgeting, financial management, and funding development.
• Foster a collaborative, high-performing culture through supervision of staff.
• Establish performance metrics and evaluate program effectiveness.
• Identify emerging needs and opportunities in government and economic development.
• Seek external funding through grants, contracts, sponsorships, and philanthropic support.
• Position GEDI as a leader in university-based training and outreach.
• Develop, conduct, and present trainings and workshops with stakeholders and partners.
• Engage with faculty/instructors in trainings and opportunities.
• Promote visibility and impact through publications, digital communications, and public presentations.
• Strengthen the Institute’s brand and statewide reputation.
• Collaborate across Auburn University units and participate in governance.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Public administration

Budget oversight

Grant/funding development

Stakeholder engagement

Public speaking

Education

Master’s degree (doctorate desired) in Public Administration/Public Policy/Economic Development/Business Administration/Political Science/Higher Education Administration

Job description

Auburn University’s Government & Economic Development Institute (GEDI) seeks a visionary Director to lead strategic planning, program development, and fiscal management. You will oversee operations, build partnerships with government, civic organizations, and industry, and steer GEDI toward growth and national impact.

This is a non-tenure track faculty leadership role. You will manage budgets, solicit grants, supervise staff, and champion outcomes with metrics.