Job description
The Opportunity
The Board of Trustees of the University of Findlay is seeking a visionary and dynamic leader to serve as its next President. This is an exceptional opportunity to guide a distinguished institution of higher education into its next era of growth and impact.
Located in the vibrant community of Findlay, Ohio, UF is celebrated for its commitment to academic excellence, entrepreneurial spirit, innovative research, and profound positive impact on the surrounding region. We are known for a pioneering spirit and a positive, collaborative campus where a strong community of students, faculty, and staff are deeply focused on preparing students for meaningful lives and productive careers. The new President will build upon this strong legacy, providing exemplary leadership to a thriving private university.
The Community
Known as “Flag City USA”, Findlay is a thriving community with a population of over 40,000 residents and has been ranked a top micropolitan community for 11 years in a row. Findlay has a strong economy and is home to several large employers, including Marathon Petroleum Corporate Headquarters, Blanchard Valley Health System, and Whirlpool Corporation. In addition to the strong and growing economy, Findlay is home to many community events year-round. Detailed local information can be found here. Findlay offers a suburban lifestyle, with numerous parks, and a vibrant arts scene centered around the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts , which hosts diverse cultural experiences. The Mazza Museum located at the University of Findlay, exhibits original art from children’s books, offering another unique cultural attraction.
The Role
The successful candidate will be a transformational leader who can identify opportunities and effectively execute strategic initiatives.
Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Strategic Vision and Leadership: Developing and implementing a forward-thinking strategic plan that ensures institutional vitality and academic rigor.
• Budget and Financial Management: Leading and managing a strong campus community, navigating the financial challenges within higher education to ensure fiscal sustainability. This role will be a driving force to advance the University to a hybrid Responsibility Center Management (RCM) model in the upcoming academic year.
• Fundraising and External Relations: Serving as a leading fundraiser for the university, developing, and maintaining relationships with key donors, community members, and external constituencies to enhance workflow and secure vital resources.
• Academic Excellence: Fostering a culture of teaching, research, and service excellence across all colleges and departments.
• Talent Management and Culture: Inspiring and managing a senior leadership team, promoting a supportive culture and collaborative workplace where all members of the campus community can thrive.
Qualifications and Experience
The ideal candidate will possess a deep passion for education and the belief that it transforms individuals and society.
Required:
• A person of Christian faith, welcoming of all.
• Successful, senior-level leadership experience in higher education administration.
• A demonstrated record of success in leading a large, complex organization.
• Proven expertise in budget and fiscal management and fundraising.
Preferred:
• A record of excellence in teaching, research, and service activities within a university setting.
• Experience in navigating the external political landscape, engaging with media, and governing bodies.
• A keen understanding of current trends in higher education.
Application Process
The University of Findlay is an equal opportunity employer. We offer competitive pay and an exceptional benefits package.
The full position description can be found here.
How to apply
To apply, candidates should submit a cover letter addressing their interest in and qualifications for the position, a current curriculum vitae, and a list of three professional references electronically to Vice President of Human Resources Heather Ward at [email protected].
For optimal consideration of your applicant file, faculty applications must include a cover letter; current Resume or Curriculum Vitae; a statement of teaching philosophy; and the contact information for three professional references with your application. Staff applications must include a current Resume or Curriculum Vitae and cover letter with your application.
The University of Findlay is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Educator and Employer. It is the university’s policy to prohibit discrimination and provide equal opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment, without regard to their race, sex (including gender identity/expression), color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, military or sexual orientation.
