Dean of Western Colorado University’s School of Business

 

Gunnison, Colorado

Western Colorado University (Western) seeks a dynamic, collegial, and strategic professional to serve as its next Dean of the School of Business (School). This role is reporting directly to the Provost and serves as the Business School’s chief academic and administrative officer, providing leadership and strategic direction to support the School’s goals and align them with the University’s strategic plan, mission, vision, and values.

 

The Dean will lead the largest academic department, working in concert with the Associate Dean, faculty and staff of the School, as well as other University administrators, to establish a distinct identity and strategic direction that promotes the School’s growth and financial sustainability. The ideal candidate is a visionary leader; passionate about student success, capable of leading change, and committed to fostering a climate that supports collaboration, growth, innovation, and excellence. 

 

Western Colorado University delivers career preparation in business, engineering, computer and other sciences, and a liberal arts curriculum to approximately 3,500 intellectually adventurous undergraduate and graduate students in picturesque Gunnison, Colorado, in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Western’s small size and unique setting ensure students receive personalized attention, gain hands-on experience, and graduate without excessive debt.

 

In 120 years of service, Western has grown to offer more than 100 areas of undergraduate study, more than 25 majors, and nine graduate degrees, launching graduates into successful fields and allowing them to contribute dynamically to society’s needs. Western has an unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience to all students, and takes pride in the values that inform its collective vision. Western is a premier provider of rigorous, immersive education and champions intellectual exploration, critical thinking, and integrity, all while inspiring innovation. Western offers an inclusive and personalized academic experience that enhances the lives of its students and their communities, now and into the future.

 

Western’s values of courage, inclusivity, and integrity promote growth in all Mountaineers as they provide stewardship for their community and world. 

 

Western’s strategic plan includes 4 goals: 

  1. Enrich the Western experience and improve well-being for students, faculty, and staff
  2. Improve student affordability and access
  3. Enhance the quality of a Western degree
  4. Ensure financial strength and support enrollment growth

The School of Business at Western Colorado University is dedicated to preparing students for the global marketplace. The School’s mission is to deliver an immersive and practical business education that equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in a dynamic and evolving business environment. The School’s students consistently achieve success and earn accolades on multiple fronts; excelling in prestigious competitions such as the Rocky Mountain Investment Challenge, the NAPE Energy Innovation Case Competition, the Daniels Ethics Initiative Competition, and national sales competitions.

 

The Dean maintains extensive working relationships with University senior administration and business and industry leaders in the Gunnison Valley and beyond. Collaborating closely with the Associate Dean, the Dean engages faculty, staff, and students to support the Business School’s internal operations. The Dean will also foster new relationships through community involvement and enhance existing corporate partnerships to facilitate student internships and career placement.

 

The Dean will establish a clear identity and set strategic direction for the School, increase enrollment in undergraduate and graduate programs, deepen relationships with alumni, and play a crucial role in fundraising, securing additional resources through fundraising/grant writing/sponsorships. The ideal candidate will outperform peer institutions in student enrollment growth, increase retention of existing students, and lead the Business School toward achieving AACSB accreditation. 

 

Compensation is $175,000 per year depending on qualifications, excellent shared contribution medical and dental insurance and retirement plans, generous paid time off, and access to other University benefits, including (after one year of employment) free Western tuition for dependents and participation in a national tuition exchange program for dependents.

 

Brettschneider Executive Search is pleased to partner with Western Colorado University in this national search. 

Please submit all applications, confidential nominations and inquiries to Western@BrettSearch.com.

 

Applications should include, as separate documents, a CV or resume and a letter of interest addressed to Kim Brettschneider, CEO, Brettschneider Executive Search, reflecting on the themes in the profile, all transcripts, a list of at least three professional references, and this form.

 

Note: When submitting the initial employment application/materials for this position, applicants may redact information that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution or program.

 

Applicant review begins immediately and will continue until the position is filled. The application deadline is October 1, 2024.

Western Colorado University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all applications, including those from applicants with disabilities and veterans.