Search begins for executive director of University Faculty Senate

The Pennsylvania State University is conducting an internal search for the position of executive director, Office of the University Faculty Senate. The executive director is appointed by the executive vice president and provost of the University and is responsible to the senate chair for the work of the Faculty Senate.  The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing all functions of the senate office, including supervising a staff of five and supporting and facilitating the senate in the performance of its duties.    The University Faculty Senate has 15 standing and six extra-senatorial committees, in addition to the Senate Council, which serves as an advisory body to the senate officers and the senate as a whole. In addition, the executive director also consults with the Division I faculty athletics representative and university ombudsperson, as necessary. The executive director oversees the annual senate election process to appoint the senate officers, who serve as chair-elect and secretary, as well as elections for other committees, such as faculty rights and responsibilities and the University promotion and tenure committees. The executive director is responsible for oversight of the senate’s annual publications, including the Senate Agenda and Record; the Senate Curriculum Report; and the constitution, standing rules, and bylaws of the senate.   The position requires an individual with leadership abilities who can counsel and support the senate leadership in all of its activities. The executive director coordinates and attends all meetings of the Faculty Senate, Senate Council, Committees and Rules, and Senate Officers and Committee Chairs and serves as corresponding secretary when appropriate. The executive director attends Board of Trustee meetings and events along with the senate officers.  The executive director also coordinates and may attend the senate officers’ visits to all Penn State colleges and campuses.  It is the responsibility of the executive director to track senate legislative and advisory/consultative reports through to fruition and implementation; to conduct background research for senate reports; and to interpret senate policy in consultation with senate officers and committee leadership. This position requires frequent interaction with college and campus leadership and other university administrative offices. In addition, the executive director has budgetary oversight and consults with the executive vice president and provost on budgetary issues, as necessary.  Candidates are expected to hold a current faculty position at Penn State, and should be able to demonstrate excellent administrative and leadership abilities. Prior experience in the Faculty Senate is preferred. Familiarity with senate and university policies, the curriculum, and implementation of new technology are necessary attributes.  Salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. Send nominations, applications, and inquiries to PSUSearch@psu.edu. The search committee will begin to review applications on Sept. 27, and will continue to receive them until the position is filled. For additional information about the University Faculty Senate, visit our web site at http://www.psu.edu/ufs/.Ingrid M. Blood will chair the search committee.