"Director and Professor Knowlton School, College of Engineering"

We invite applications for the next Director of the Knowlton School, which this role is expected to start as early as Autumn 2026. The Director is responsible for cultivating a cohesive and collaborative climate and culture across the school’s three sections: architecture, landscape architecture, and city and regional planning. The Director represents the school at the college and university levels, leads all aspects of school administration in a fiscally responsible manner, and fosters an environment where faculty, staff, and students can thrive. The future Director of the Knowlton School should be a bold, creative, and collaborative problem-solver that builds upon the school’s research, interdisciplinarity, and education profile to address the changing landscape as the professions evolve.

The position is open to applicants who may require sponsorship for a visa or other work authorization.

Reporting Relationships

The Director reports to the Dean of the College of Engineering. Direct reports include the heads of each section: Architecture Section Head, Landscape Architecture Section Head, and City and Regional Planning Section Head.

Performance Objectives

The Director of the Knowlton School will provide visionary leadership and strategic oversight across all facets of the school’s operations, representing the school within the College of Engineering and the broader university. The Director will foster a collaborative academic culture that supports faculty development, student success, and scholarly excellence. This includes ensuring operational effectiveness through the management of staff, academic programs, and internal processes, while promoting fairness in responsibilities and opportunities. The Director will lead strategic financial planning in alignment with academic priorities, working closely with section heads and administrative staff to develop and manage the school’s budget. In addition, the Director will cultivate meaningful relationships with alumni, industry partners, and external stakeholders to enhance the school’s visibility and secure external funding. A commitment to shared governance, continuous improvement, and academic innovation will be central to the Director’s leadership approach.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Governance: Lead the development and regular review of the school’s governance documents, including the Pattern of Administration and Appointments, Promotion, and Tenure (APT) procedures. Represent the school within the College of Engineering and broader university leadership.

Academic & Administrative Management: Oversee day-to-day operations, including staff hiring, supervision, and service assignments. Collaborate with faculty and the Dean to plan and implement forward-looking academic programs. Ensure continuous improvement of instructional quality through course evaluations and faculty-led reviews.

Faculty Development & Evaluation: Conduct annual performance reviews for faculty and support their professional growth. Make informed recommendations on faculty appointments, reappointments, promotions, and dismissals in alignment with university policies and the school’s APT document. Foster a collegial environment that supports scholarship, innovation, and academic excellence.

Operational Excellence: Maintain accurate and up-to-date curriculum vitae for all instructional personnel. Promote equity in faculty responsibilities and privileges based on academic rank. Ensure effective onboarding, supervision, and development of faculty and staff.

Financial & Strategic Planning: Lead the development of the school’s annual budget and financial forecasts in collaboration with the Cost Center Manager and Section Heads. Align financial planning with strategic priorities and academic goals.

External Engagement & Advancement: Cultivate relationships with alumni, industry partners, and other stakeholders. Identify and pursue external funding opportunities in partnership with University Advancement and designated staff.

Academic Program Review: Facilitate and participate in academic program reviews in coordination with the Dean and the Office of Academic Affairs. The Director may delegate specific responsibilities to Associate Directors or Section Heads as appropriate, while maintaining overall accountability for the school’s success.

About the Knowlton School and the College of Engineering details are provided in the text, highlighting the school’s mission, resources, and commitment to education and research.

Candidate Qualifications include a terminal degree, demonstrated academic leadership, and other required and desired experiences.