Department Head - Horticultural Science

Department Head - Horticultural Science North Carolina State University invites applications for the position of Department Head in the Horticultural Science Department, located on the main campus in Raleigh, NC. This is an exempt professional staff position (12–month recurring) with a full‑time equivalent of 0.60 to 1.00. The role demands a visionary and collaborative leader who will advance excellence in teaching, research, and Extension. The successful candidate will mentor faculty, staff, and Extension professionals, manage departmental resources, and build relationships with industry partners and university stakeholders. Key Responsibilities Provide strategic and administrative leadership for all departmental teaching, research, and Extension programs. Advance a clear vision for program growth, innovation, and national visibility in horticultural science. Recruit, mentor, evaluate, and support faculty, staff, and Extension professionals across on-campus and off-campus locations statewide. Oversee departmental budgets, personnel, facilities, and resources, ensuring effective stewardship and accountability. Strengthen undergraduate and graduate academic programs, research productivity, and high‑impact Extension programming. Foster collaboration within the department, centers, consortiums and other NC State units, including participation in university‑wide research initiatives. Serve as the primary representative of the department to college and university leadership, industry partners, commodity groups, alumni, and stakeholders. Lead development and fundraising efforts to support departmental initiatives, distinguished professorships, graduate student fellowships, and student opportunities. Make timely, informed decisions and address complex or challenging issues in support of departmental goals. Other Responsibilities Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities. Qualifications Minimum Education and Experience Ph.D. in Horticultural Science or a closely related discipline with credentials commensurate with the rank of Professor with tenure. Other Required Qualifications Record of outstanding professional achievement in the field with working knowledge of current developments in the discipline. A demonstrated record of program extramural funding and knowledge of funding opportunities. Commitment to excellence in teaching, research and extension appropriate to a land‑grant university. Record of success in administrative and personnel management. Excellent communication skills with faculty, staff, students, administrators, commodity groups and the public. Preferred Qualifications N/A Required License(s) or Certification(s) Valid NC driver’s license or the ability to obtain one within 60 days of start. Special Instructions to Applicants In order to be considered, applicants must provide the following: A two‑page statement of vision for leadership of the department. Name and contact information for three professional references. Required Documents Cover Letter Curriculum Vitae Other Document (1) Contact Information for References Optional Documents NC STATE UNIVERSITY RALEIGH, NC 27695 PHONE: View phone number on click.appcast.io EEO Statement NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disability‑related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact View phone number on click.appcast.io to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity. Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit. NC State University participates in E‑Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. #J-18808-Ljbffr