"School Head"

School Head

Company: Purdue Polytechnic Institute, Purdue University

Job Location: West Lafayette

Category: Other Executive

Type: Full-Time

Email: jeff@harrissearch.com

Purdue University announces the nomination and application process for the position of School Head, School of Applied and Creative Computing (SACC) within the Polytechnic Institute at Purdue’s West Lafayette main campus. The school’s undergraduate programs are accredited by ABET, with over 2,000 undergraduate students. Additionally, the MS and PhD programs serve over 300 graduate students, with both campus-based and online offerings. The 60+ full-time faculty members conduct research in diverse areas, including animation, information technology, visualization, and other fields, engaging with companies worldwide. The school head reports directly to the dean of the Purdue Polytechnic Institute and is responsible for the administrative, budgetary, and personnel decisions within the school.

QUALIFICATIONS

The successful candidate will be a thought leader in advancing a culture of academic excellence and building upon already excellent computing programs, including exceptional undergraduate and graduate curricula, use-inspired research programs, and strong industry relationships.

Candidates must:

• Demonstrate a proven ability to lead and mentor faculty in the areas of learning, discovery, and engagement while building effective and collaborative teams.
• Be recognized for scholarly achievement across the breadth of computing, have achieved a PhD degree (computing or related field), and have the qualifications for appointment as a full professor.
• Have proven skills as an effective and visionary leader with competencies in administration, fiscal management, facilitation of grants, and development.
• Demonstrate a commitment to students and student learning at the collegiate level.
• Have a proven record of management experience with an understanding of interaction with diverse groups of internal and external constituents.

ABOUT THE SCHOOL OF APPLIED & CREATIVE COMPUTING

The SACC has campuses in West Lafayette, Indianapolis, and at various statewide locations. This school was recently formed by unifying the Departments of Computer Graphics Technology and Computer and Information Technology, and blends technical excellence and creative innovation under one roof. The multidisciplinary approach prepares students to address real-world challenges at the intersection of computing, design, and applied technology. With a curriculum continuously updated to reflect the latest industry tools and trends, students benefit from immersive learning environments enriched by state-of-the-art labs and hands-on projects. Supported by accomplished faculty who are active researchers and practitioners, the School fosters applied research and collaboration with industry partners. Graduates emerge ready to lead and innovate—with both the technical acumen and creative insight needed to shape the future of computing and media. More information on SACC may be found here: https://polytechnic.purdue.edu/academic-areas/sacc.

ABOUT PURDUE UNIVERSITY

Purdue University is a top public research institution developing practical solutions to today’s toughest challenges. Purdue is the land grant university for Indiana, aspiring to be a top 5 public research university. Ranked one of the top 10 Most Innovative Schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, with a $685+ million research enterprise, Purdue delivers world-changing research and out-of-this-world discovery that drive discoveries and innovative solutions that have a critical impact on the nation and the world.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Applications should include a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, and the names of three references. Applications and nominations will be accepted until the position is filled. Confidential review of materials and screening of candidates will begin October 1, 2025 and continue until the position is filled. Harris Search Associates is assisting with this search. All candidates should contact: Jeffrey Harris, Managing Partner at jeff@HarrisSearch.com, O: 614-798-8500 | M: 614-354-2100. The anticipated start date is July 1, 2026. A background check is required for this position.