Kansas State University

National search announced for chief executive officer of K-State Olathe

Submitted by Office of the Provost

The Office of the Provost announces a national search for the chief executive officer of K-State Olathe. The university has engaged the services of Academic Career and Executive Search, an executive search firm, to support the search committee with the process. 

The university is seeking a dynamic individual with exceptional leadership, strategic and interpersonal capabilities to lead K-State Olathe. The CEO reports directly to the provost and executive vice president and serves as a member of the Deans Council and on the K-State Olathe board of directors.

The K-State Olathe CEO serves as an advisor to the president and provost in establishing both strategic directions and significant initiatives in research and education in the Kansas City region on behalf of Kansas State University. The CEO works closely with a variety of stakeholders to advance the role of K-State Olathe within the university with strong academic/industry/government partnerships integrating education, research and engagement to address the needs of a rapidly changing world. Strong collaboration with senior administrators, deans and other academic leaders at the university and leaders in government, industry and academia in the Kansas City region is required. An appreciation of the strengths and diverse expertise of K-State Olathe faculty and staff and support of growing programs and current industry connections and engagement with Kansas City area community colleges will also be necessary for success. 

The CEO represents the president and provost in the Kansas City area when asked; establishes opportunities for their engagement with regional leaders on issues important to the university, and works with federal, regional, and state agencies and industry in creating partnerships that advance the university's research, education and engagement missions. He/she takes a leadership role in public relations and marketing of the university's presence in the Kansas City region, maintaining and strengthening strategic relationships with the community, alumni, benefactors and industry. The CEO will also work with university and regional stakeholders to maintain a strategic focus for K-State Olathe consistent with the strategic directions of Kansas State University and to build continued excellence and growth in education, research and outreach programs offered through the campus. The CEO attends and represents the Olathe campus at meetings and stays in close contact with local government. 

The CEO also serves as the chief administrative officer for K-State Olathe and is responsible for overall program leadership, strategic direction, fiscal stewardship, fund development, policy formulation, impact assessment, and aligning the efforts and strengths of K-State Olathe with those of the university and its K-State 2025 Visionary Plan. The CEO is also responsible for the operational management of the Olathe campus, including personnel, facilities — i.e., laboratory, teaching, and event spaces — infrastructure and safety. 

The full position description, including required qualifications, may be found on the provost's website.

Inquiries, nominations and applications will be treated confidentially. For full consideration, application materials must be received by Nov. 4. Applications will be reviewed as they are received and should include a cover letter and curriculum vita. Please do not email applications; instead, apply directly at acesrch.applicantstack.com/x/detail/a21esjyglu04. 

Inquires, referrals, nominations and questions should be sent to Jennifer Muller at Jennifer@ACESrch.com or call 860-740-2600.

We anticipate interviews taking place in late January, with an anticipated appointment beginning shortly thereafter.