Regional Director, Penn State Cooperative Extension

Posted by on March 17, 2006

Regional Director (Southeast Region) Date Announced: 03/17/2006
Work Unit: College of Agricultural Sciences
Department: Cooperative Extension
Job Number: 21906

Provide programmatic and administrative leadership for Cooperative Extension (CE) and coordination for University outreach programs in the Southeast region (Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lehigh, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia and Schuylkill counties). This job will be located at the Berks Campus. Supervise County Extension Directors (CEDs) and regional staff. Provide guidance, counsel and assistance to State Program Leaders, CEDs and extension staff to ensure effective program development implementation and impact assessment to meet the needs of diverse clientele groups. Provide leadership for the development of a comprehensive CE program and administer the financial resources required to carryout the program. Provide leadership for Regional Outreach Councils to facilitate cooperation and collaboration between and among academic and regional units within the College and other colleges and outreach organizations within the University. Work with CEDs and county extension boards in the formation of county polices that are consistent with federal, state and University policies. Develop positive relations with county commissioners, legislators, donors and other key individuals. Lead staff in the development and implementation of an affirmative action plan for each county. Support the commitment of creating and fostering an environment that provides mutual respect, value human differences and diversity, and encourage collaboration among faculty, staff, programs and audiences. Collaborate, advise and assist in the development and implementation of CE policies and procedures related to personnel issues, programs and organizational priorities, and budget and fiscal management. Require Master?s degree (Doctorate degree highly preferred) or equivalent in a discipline or combination of disciplines that provide appropriate background for administering extension programs in agriculture and national resources, family and consumers sciences, 4-H and youth development and economic and community development, plus seven years of work-related experience. Candidates who have significant experience in administration and supervision and interaction with governmental and public agency officials are encouraged to apply. Experience working with volunteers would be beneficial. Demonstrated excellence in program leadership and effective interpersonal, communication and organizational skills are essential. An understanding of and commitment to Cooperative Extension and the land-grant University system philosophy and mission; a demonstrated commitment to diversity, EEO and Affirmative Action requirements; and the ability to relate to a wide variety of socioeconomic, political, commodity and other interest groups also are essential. Significant travel is required for this job. Candidate must possess a valid driver?s license.