JOB SUMMARY
The Program Leader for Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) provides statewide leadership for Agriculture and Natural Resources programming within Kentucky State University's Cooperative Extension Program. This position is responsible for the strategic planning, development, implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement of statewide ANR Extension programs that address the needs of agricultural producers, landowners, communities, and other stakeholders throughout the Commonwealth.
The Program Leader provides leadership to Extension faculty and staff, develops strategic partnerships with governmental agencies, educational institutions, industry organizations, and community partners, and ensures that programs are research-based, responsive to stakeholder needs, and aligned with the University's Land Grant mission and strategic priorities.
This position requires a consistent on-campus presence while supporting statewide programming and travel throughout Kentucky.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
- Provides statewide leadership for Agriculture and Natural Resources Cooperative Extension programming.
- Develops, implements, and evaluates a comprehensive strategic plan for Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension programs.
- Provides leadership, guidance, mentoring, and support to Extension faculty and staff responsible for Agriculture and Natural Resources programming.
- Oversees statewide program planning, implementation, evaluation, reporting, and continuous improvement efforts.
- Develops and maintains collaborative partnerships with federal, state, regional, and local agencies, educational institutions, commodity organizations, industry representatives, nonprofit organizations, and community stakeholders.
- Identifies emerging issues and educational needs affecting agriculture and natural resources throughout Kentucky and develops responsive educational programming.
- Coordinates professional development opportunities and training programs for Extension personnel.
- Monitors program performance, outcomes, compliance, and accountability measures.
- Assists with identifying funding opportunities and supports the development and administration of grants and cooperative agreements.
- Participates in state, regional, and national professional organizations, advisory groups, and Cooperative Extension leadership networks.
- Maintains records, prepares reports, and evaluates program effectiveness using data-informed decision making.
- Promotes excellent customer service and positive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Represents Kentucky State University and Cooperative Extension at meetings, conferences, public events, and professional activities.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Master's degree in Agriculture, Natural Resources, Agricultural Education, Agronomy, Animal Science, Environmental Science, Horticulture, Forestry, Agricultural Economics, or a closely related field is required. Minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in Cooperative Extension, agriculture, natural resources, higher education, or a related field. Demonstrated leadership and supervisory experience is preferred. Experience with strategic planning, program evaluation, grant administration, and partnership development is preferred.
