University of Nebraska

Position Title/Short Description

Full Text of JOE Listing:

The Head of the Department of Agricultural Economics is charged with coordinating and promoting all aspects of our land-grant mission within the department. The incumbent provides leadership and oversight of all Agricultural Economics programming and initiatives.

With 37 faculty members, the head fosters an inclusive culture in which all contributions to the team are appreciated and recognized, collaboration and innovation are encouraged, and the abilities of all are engaged to fully realize the potential of the team and of each team member. The incumbent manages financial and physical resources responsibly to maximize the effectiveness of those resources, exhibiting fiscal discipline and transparency, and using best fiscal management practices. The head ensures opportunities are open to all, programs are inclusive of all constituencies, and efforts are made to engage diverse audiences, especially those that are traditionally underrepresented. They synthesize a vision for Agricultural Economics with input from faculty, staff, and stakeholders that encompasses all research areas. They seek and deploy personnel and financial resources strategically and ensure that the strategic vision is continuously examined for relevancy and refreshed as needed.

For additional information about the position, go to https://ianr.unl.edu/head-department-agricultural-economics.

To be considered for the position, candidates must have:
• A Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics, Applied Economics, Business, or closely related field.
• Accomplishments commensurate with a tenured faculty appointment in Agricultural Economics at the rank of full professor.
• Demonstrated ability to provide visionary leadership (including creating a shared vision and aligning resources to achieve strategic outcomes).
• A record of leadership and outcomes that demonstrate an abiding commitment to practices that enhance access, equity, inclusion, and belongingness.
• Exceptional skills in communication and interpersonal relations.

Preference will be given to candidates who demonstrate:
• A record of excellence in research, teaching, and/or Extension.
• An ability to collaborate effectively with a broad range of constituencies.
• Evidence of navigating complex situations and making strategic decisions.
• Demonstrated encouragement and/or development of innovative activities.
• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary teams.
• Sensitivity to the perspectives and values of students, staff, faculty, and stakeholders.


IANR invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for the position of Head of the Department of Agricultural Economics. We actively encourage applications from and nominations of persons of color, women, persons living with disabilities, and veterans.
The search advisory committee will continue to receive applications until the Head is selected. To ensure full consideration, nominations and applications should be submitted before August 10, 2023.
Questions and nominations can be directed in confidence to the co-chairs of the search committee:

John Ruberson, Ph.D.
Head of Entomology
402-472-8683
jruberson2@unl.edu

Karina Schoengold, Ph.D.
Professor, Agricultural Economics
kschoengold2@unl.edu

Applicants should go to http://employment.unl.edu and search positions using requisition number F_230103, click on “Apply to this Job,” complete the form and attach a) a letter of interest that describes your qualifications for the position, anticipated contributions, and vision; b) a statement describing your experience working in diverse teams or groups and your anticipated contributions to creating inclusive environments in which every person and every interaction matters (2 page maximum; see https://ianr.unl.edu/ongoing-searches for guidance in writing this statement); c) a detailed curriculum vitae; and d) the names of 3-5 professional references. References will be requested only of candidates who make the short list. All candidate information will be held in strict confidence until the final stage of the search at which time the express permission of finalists will be obtained before making their candidacy public. Candidates are urged to review all information and documents posted on the search web site.

For questions and assistance with submitting the application contact Rachel Szelag, Senior HR Specialist at rszelag2@unl.edu or by phone at (402) 472-5730.

UNL offers an attractive compensation and benefits package, commensurate with the successful candidate’s background and experience.

The University of Nebraska is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work and learning environment free from discrimination and harassment. UNL is dedicated to creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and included. UNL does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, and employment. UNL complies with all local, state, and federal laws prohibiting discrimination, including Title IX, which prohibits discrimination based on sex. See: http://www.unl.edu/equity/notice-nondiscrimination