"Chair of the Film Production Department"

Chair of the Film Production Department

Belhaven University, a Christian university dedicated to integrating biblical truth and academic excellence, invites applications for the position of Chair of the Film Production Department. We seek an experienced educator and administrator who demonstrates visionary leadership, film industry experience, academic strength, and a strong Christian faith to advance the mission of Belhaven’s Film Production program. This is a tenure-track position that begins in January 2026.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide comprehensive leadership of the Film Production major and minor.
• Teach twelve (12) load hours per semester on-campus including courses in cinematography, screenwriting, editing, history of film, and production.
• Facilitate hands-on experiences for students as they produce narrative and non-fiction films, commercials, and promotional videos. Be available for filming projects during some evenings and weekends as needed.
• Partner with the Admissions Office and Marketing / Public Relations staff on recruitment efforts.
• Ensure that all adjunct instructors are aligned with the mission and culture of Belhaven University and are equipped to teach with excellence.
• Collaborate with university leadership in budgeting and planning to verify efficient and mission-aligned resource allocation.
• Maintain equipment and oversee purchasing for the department.
• Train and supervise work-study students.
• Facilitate student field trips to local film productions and production companies.
• Assist students with submitting work to juried film festivals and showcases.
• Develop partnerships with production companies to create internship and employment opportunities for students.
• Produce screenings of student work and invite community members and local professionals to provide feedback.
• Collaborate with faculty throughout the School of Fine Arts to ensure innovative cross-disciplinary opportunities for students.
• Model professional excellence and a Christ-centered approach to teaching.
• Other duties include curriculum development, oversight of faculty assignments, annual outcomes assessments, and review of course evaluations.

QUALIFICATIONS

• MFA degree in Film Production or Cinematography required alongside professional experience in screenwriting, directing, producing, filming, and/or editing.
• Minimum of three years of experience in teaching film production.
• The successful candidate must articulate a Christian worldview in one's area of service and must fully support the University Vision, Mission and Statement of Faith.
• Prior leadership, management, or administrative experience in higher education preferred.
• Passion for serving students from diverse backgrounds with care, support, and academic rigor.
• Mature Christian faith with the ability to articulate and integrate a biblical worldview in the context of film production.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with faculty, students, and external partners.

APPLICATION PROCESS

To be considered for this position, a complete application packet must be received. A complete application packet will include the following:

• Letter of intent detailing interest in Christian higher education and how experience aligns with the position’s qualifications and responsibilities.
• A statement (3–4 paragraphs) describing how a biblical worldview informs film production education and leadership.
• Current resume or curriculum vitae.
• Contact information for four professional references (including one from a local pastor).
• Please prepare a brief account (no more than 750 words) of your spiritual pilgrimage including the time and circumstances surrounding your becoming a believer in Christ and your current relationship with Christ. Please click on this link: http://www.belhaven.edu/belhaven/employment_pdfs/LetterOfEmploymentCommitment.pdf to review Belhaven University’s Commitment Statement including our employee expectations. Should you receive a job offer, you will be asked to sign accepting this commitment.

Submit all application materials to: Monica French, Director of Academic Administration Email: mfrench@belhaven.edu

Employment at Belhaven University is contingent upon the results of an independent background check.