Director of Research Engagement and Outreach

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via ConnectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

The University of Mississippi

"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 University of Mississippi Office for Research and Economic Development fosters a vibrant environment of scholarly activity, innovation, and collaboration. We empower faculty, students, and partners to advance knowledge, address societal challenges, and drive economic growth through groundbreaking research, interdisciplinary engagement, and transformational discoveries.

Role Specifications

Below you will find classification and compensation information.  For additional details behind the University of Mississippi classification system please visit Human Resource Compensation Page

Family -  Administration 

Sub-Family - Program Coordination

Career Track / Level - M4

Grade - 15

Role Summary

Oversees program development and implementation, working closely with internal and external stakeholders to achieve programmatic and institutional goals.

This role leads a team of support and skilled individuals and is responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive Research Engagement and Outreach strategies to enhance the University of Mississippi’s reputation for research and economic development through the Office of Research and Economic Development’s visibility and brand awareness. This will be accomplished by implementing an effective strategic Research Engagement and Outreach plan that will guide content creation and research engagement strategies.  This position will collaborate, when necessary, with The University of Mississippi Office for Marketing and Communications.  

Core responsibilities of the role:

1. Manages daily administration management, and functional duties in relation to Research Engagement and Outreach for the Office of Research and Economic Development. 
2. Implement strategic plan for Research Engagement and Outreach and develop strategic initiatives.
3. Design and implement strategic concepts, tone, rationale and messages for use in the promotion of the Office of Research and Economic Development. 
4.  Develops and implements special events, projects, and programs to generate media interest, fund-raising support, and public recognition.

Examples of Work Performed

1. Develops and executes a strategic vision and plan for Research Engagement and Outreach in the Office for Research and Economic Development (ORED).  The incumbent will work closely with Vice Chancellor for Research and Economic Development (VCRED), other senior leaders, and other stakeholders to align program goals and objectives with broader institutional priorities and strategic plans.
2. Oversees Research Engagement and Outreach budgeting and financial planning, working closely with finance and other departments to ensure that programs are financially sustainable and aligned with institutional priorities.
3. Ensures the Research Engagement and Outreach activities meet institutional standards.
4. Oversees program evaluation and continuous improvement efforts, working closely with administrators, faculty, staff, and other stakeholders to identify areas for improvement.
5. Leads the development and maintenance of relationships with external partners, such as industry organizations, professional associations, and community groups.
6. Represents ORED and UM at conferences, events, and other external forums, presents on ORED and UM related content and outcomes.
7. Leads and manages program staff, providing leadership, guidance, and support as needed to ensure high-quality program operations and strong employee engagement. This includes overseeing program coordinators, advisors, and administrative support staff, as well as providing mentorship and support to junior faculty and other academic staff.
    

Essential Functions

These essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following.  Additional essential functions may be identified and included by the hiring department.

1. Develops and executes a strategic vision and plan for the academic program, working closely with senior leaders and other stakeholders to align program goals and objectives with broader institutional priorities and strategic plans.
2. Oversees program budgeting and financial planning, working closely with finance and other departments to ensure that programs are financially sustainable and aligned with institutional priorities.
3. Ensures the academic program meets institutional and accreditation standards.
4. Oversees program evaluation and continuous improvement efforts, working closely with faculty and other stakeholders to identify areas for improvement.
5. Leads the development and maintenance of  relationships with external partners, such as industry organizations, professional associations, and community groups.
6. Represents the program at conferences, events, and other external forums, presents on program content and outcomes.
7. Leads and manages program staff, providing leadership, guidance, and support as needed to ensures high-quality program operations and strong employee engagement. This includes overseeing program coordinators, advisors, and administrative support staff, as well as providing mentorship and support to junior faculty and other academic staff.

Minimum Education/Experience

Education: Bachelor's Degree

Experience:  (10) Ten Years Experience, (6) Years Supervisory Experience

Preferred Qualifications

Education: Master’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Journalism, Marketing, Communications, English or a related field. 

Certification: Certified Grant Writer

AND

Experience: Seven (7) years of experience related to the above-described duties, grant writing experience working with externally funded academic units as well as development experience in the academic setting.

For full consideration please include with your application a Required for Application a Resumé or CV and Cover Letter outlining your experience and qualifications related to the role.

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.

Background Check Statement

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.