Executive Director

Executive Director

The Board of Trustees of the Roanoke Higher Education Authority seeks to fill the position of Executive Director. The Authority is a political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Virginia constituted as a public body that operates the Roanoke Higher Education Center (RHEC). Located in Roanoke, Virginia, the Center is currently comprised of 11 member institutions representing colleges, universities and workforce agencies (Appalachian College of Pharmacy, James Madison University, Radford University, Region 5 Adult Education, Roanoke College, Sovah School of Health Professions, TAP Into Hope-Total Action for Progress, Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia State University, Virginia Tech, and Virginia Western Community College) and 5 partner institutions who occupy space on the campus. Member institutions currently offer 70 programs ranging from the GED to the PhD, including certifications. Qualified institutions and workforce organizations are members of the Center through lease agreements that include office, classroom, and laboratory facilities.

The Executive Director is appointed by and reports to the Board of Trustees, which is composed of representatives from colleges and workforce agencies, legislators, and Governor-appointed members. The Board of Trustees delegates administrative, management, and planning functions of the Authority, the Roanoke Higher Education Centers Foundation (501(c)3, and the Roanoke Higher Education Center (RHEC) to the Executive Director. Directors of the Centers three departments, including Academic and Student Services, Facility Services, and Finance and Administration, report to the Executive Director and comprise the Executive Team.

The Executive Director provides vision and leadership for the overall operations of the Roanoke Higher Education Center, including program identification and development, staffing, quality standards, fiscal management, resource development, and external relationships. The role also includes building and maintaining strong partnerships with member institutions, the Board of Trustees, the Foundation Board of Directors, governmental officials, and key community leaders.

Required Qualifications:

1. A Masters degree with a minimum of 10 years in a leadership position, preferably in higher education, workforce development, or economic development.
2. A background in industry, higher education, or public administration with experience managing both strategic initiatives and day-to-day operations.
3. Demonstrated experience in fundraising, budgeting, grant acquisition, and financial management.
4. A proven track record in fostering partnerships with government, industry, and educational institutions.
5. Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Doctorate degree with a blend of experience in higher education, workforce development, or economic development.
2. Previous experience reporting to a Board;
3. Previous experience in lease administration.

Compensation is competitive and will be based on education and experience. A full benefits package is included.

The appointment of the new Executive Director will be effective January 2027, or as soon thereafter as mutually agreed. 

Consideration of candidates will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. To ensure consideration, please respond by August 3, 2026. Applicants must submit an official RHEC application, letter of interest, resume, and 3 written letters of reference to View email address on click.appcast.io.

A full job description, organizational chart, and application are available at

For additional information, contact Kay Dunkley at View phone number on click.appcast.io or View email address on click.appcast.io.

EOE M/H/V