Mercer University seeks an accomplished and visionary academic leader to serve as Dean of the College of Health Professions (CHP). This individual will need to understand the evolving landscape of healthcare workforce development while advancing the CHP’s position as a regional and national leader in preparing practice-ready, ethically grounded health professionals.
Mercer University is one of America’s oldest and most distinctive institutions of higher learning, offering rigorous programs that span the undergraduate liberal arts and sciences to doctoral-level degrees. Founded by early 19th-century Baptists, Mercer—while no longer formally denominationally affiliated—remains committed to an educational environment that embraces the historic Baptist principles of intellectual and religious freedom. With about 9,000 students enrolled in 12 schools and colleges, on major campuses in Macon and Atlanta, medical school campuses in Macon, Savannah, Columbus, Valdosta, and Carrollton, and at regional academic centers in Henry and Douglas counties, Mercer is ranked among the top tier and best values of national research universities by U.S. News & World Report.
Established in 2013, The College of Health Professions (CHP) is one of Mercer's professional schools and reflects the University's broader commitment to preparing graduates for meaningful careers in service to others. The College offers programs designed to develop skilled, ethical, and compassionate health professionals who are prepared to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare environment. CHP prepares students to improve the health and quality of life of individuals and society through excellence in teaching, research, and service.
Reporting to the Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, the Dean is responsible for the overall academic quality, strategic direction, financial health, and operational effectiveness of the College of Health Professions. The next Dean understands the evolving landscape of healthcare workforce development and can position the CHP as a regional and national leader in preparing practice-ready, ethically grounded health professionals. They are a collaborative, transparent communicator who earns the trust of faculty, staff, students, clinical partners, and University leadership.
The next Dean will have a terminal degree from an accredited institution in a field relevant to the College's academic portfolio and the academic credentials sufficient for the appointment as a tenured full professor within one of the College’s departments. In addition, they will possess significant progressive leadership experience in higher education, with demonstrated responsibility for academic programs, innovation, personnel, and budget.
The search committee will begin accepting and reviewing applications immediately and through Fall 2026. Requested application materials include a letter of interest addressing the leadership agenda and a curriculum vitae/resumé. Although applications will be accepted until a Dean is selected, for best consideration, all candidates should submit their materials as soon as possible. All materials will be received in confidence. DSG Global has been exclusively retained for this engagement, which is being led by Dr. Thomas Fitch, Managing Director, and Ms. Amanda Bennett, Managing Associate, who can be contacted at: MercerDeanHealthProfessions@dsgco.com
For a full position leadership profile, please click here: https://dsgco.com/search/23183-mercer-dean-health-professions
To express interest in this role, please submit materials directly to the following: https://talent-profile.dsgco.com/search/v2/23183
This is a full-time position that will be based on-site in Atlanta, Georgia, with travel to Macon, Georgia. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and includes a generous benefits package.
EEO/Veteran/Disability