"Department Chair Geography & Planning"

Job Details

Department Chair Geography & Planning

Tenure Status: Tenure Track

Department: Geography & Planning - 250300

Minimum Qualifications

We seek a visionary and effective leader to become the next Chair of the Department of Geography and Planning.

• Ph.D. in Geography, Planning or related discipline is required

Areas of Interest (No Minimum Level Required)

The Department of Geography and Planning seeks an innovative, resourceful, and dynamic leader to expand sponsored research, support vibrant instruction, and facilitate collaboration. We seek a department leader who will further develop our department profile with strategic creativity and has a strong vision for the mission for the department.

The ideal candidate must have a record of excellence in teaching, scholarship, and service. They should provide evidence of leadership in recruiting and fostering academic growth and professional development of faculty, staff, and students.

The ideal candidate must have a demonstrated commitment to excellence in undergraduate and graduate instruction and research. They should show the capacity to be a strong advocate for the department and be skilled at development and outreach initiatives.

They also will have a distinguished record of leadership in geography or planning and demonstrated understanding and support for all the sub-disciplines represented in the Department.

Strong management and administrative skills are preferred.

License/Certification Required

N/A

Description of the Department or Unit

The Department of Geography and Planning offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in geography and community and regional planning. Specializing in climate science, medical geography, community and regional planning, sustainable and environmental planning, spatial patterns in human geography, and Geographic Information Science (GIS), the department provides students with solutions-based critical thinking skills.

https://geo.appstate.edu

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Personnel & Supervision

Provide leadership in recruiting, appointing, and retaining faculty and staff. Foster a positive departmental climate by addressing and preventing conflicts. Recommend salaries, promotions, tenure, and reappointments per University policy. Assign teaching, service, and committee duties equitably; evaluate performance; and support faculty development and scholarly achievement.

Resource Management

Manage departmental budgets and resources responsibly. Oversee facilities, equipment, and supply needs to ensure smooth operations.

Curriculum & Policy Development

Collaborate with faculty to develop and maintain strong academic programs, curricula, and standards. Lead strategic planning to align departmental goals with college and University priorities.

Leadership & Advocacy

Implement and communicate University and college policies. Represent and advocate for the department's needs internally and externally. Lead departmental meetings and committees effectively. Participate in professional development opportunities for department chairs.

Proposed Date of Hire: 08/01/2026

Suggested Salary Range: Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Closing Date:

Open Until Filled: Yes

Evaluation of Applications Begins: 12/15/2025

To apply, visit https://appstate.peopleadmin.com/postings/52645

Appalachian State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. The University does not discriminate in access to its educational programs and activities, or with respect to hiring or the terms and conditions of employment, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity and expression, political affiliation, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information or sexual orientation.