Executive Director of the Jordan Center for Journalism Advocacy and Innovation

Executive Director of the Jordan Center for Journalism Advocacy and Innovation

Location: University, MS, US, 38677

Department: School of Journalism and New Media (11146947)

Employee Designation: Regular Full-time (Benefits Eligible)

The University of Mississippi — fondly referred to as Ole Miss — stands as a premier public research institution with a proud legacy of academic distinction. We are devoted to nurturing a vibrant, inclusive community where every member — student, faculty, and staff — can achieve their fullest potential.

Department Summary

The newly established Jordan Center for Journalism Advocacy and Innovation at the University of Mississippi seeks a dynamic and visionary leader to champion the future of journalism in society and oversee the Center’s initiatives. The Jordan Center is dedicated to strengthening the impact and credibility of journalism in America, fostering an informed public, and highlighting the vital role journalists play in civic life. A key initiative of the Center is the Jordan Institute for Life Skills and Wealth Creation, a unique summer program designed to complement traditional high school curricula.

As the inaugural Executive Director, this leader will have significant latitude in shaping the Center’s strategy, vision, and activities.

Role Summary

Administers and evaluates all business and administrative matters including budget, operations, and personnel administration within a unit. Provides financial analysis and strategic planning as well as oversees the budgetary controls. Ideal candidates will be forward-thinking about journalism’s evolving role in a democratic society. They should have a strong understanding of technological trends and public policies that influence journalism and media. Both experienced journalists and traditional academics are encouraged to apply. The Executive Director will report to the Dean of the School of Journalism and New Media and will be based in Farley Hall, overlooking the University of Mississippi’s iconic Grove. This is a 12-month staff position.

Examples of Work Performed

Responsibilities include:

1. Establishing and leading a national advisory board.
2. Advocating innovations in journalism education and its role in society.
3. Representing the Center publicly through speaking engagements, programming, and research.
4. Securing funding through grants and development efforts.

Essential Functions

These essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Oversee the overall operations of the department, ensuring that all units are working together effectively and efficiently to achieve the department's goals and objectives.
2. Develop and implement strategic plans and objectives to guide the department's growth and development, in collaboration with other senior managers and stakeholders.
3. Lead and manage a team of supervisors and other staff, providing coaching, mentoring, and performance management as needed to ensure high-quality operations and strong employee engagement.
4. Develop and manage the department's budget, ensuring financial sustainability and alignment with the university's strategic priorities and goals.
5. Design, implement, and maintain effective processes and systems to track and analyze performance metrics, identify areas for improvement, and develop and implement plans to address any operational inefficiencies or bottlenecks.
6. Collaborate with other departments and stakeholders across the university to ensure effective coordination and alignment of departmental goals and objectives with broader institutional priorities and strategic plans.

Education: Bachelor's Degree

Experience: 10 Years Experience, 6 Years of Supervisory Experience

For full consideration, candidates should apply with a CV and cover letter by March 17.

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.

Minimum Physical Requirements

Physical Requirements: These physical requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job-related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. Physical Exertion: The incumbent may be required to lift up to approximately 10 pounds. Vision: Requirements of this job include close vision. Speaking/Hearing: Ability to give and receive information through speaking and listening. Motor Coordination: While performing the duties of this job, the incumbent is frequently required to talk and hear; and use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The incumbent is periodically required to sit. The incumbent is occasionally required to stand; walk; and reach with hands and arms.

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.