Senior Director, Graduate And Professional Program Development And Implementation

Summary of Position:

Franklin Pierce University is seeking a Senior Director of Graduate and Professional Program Development and Implementation to intentionally advance the University's graduate and professional programs, particularly in the health professions industries. This role requires a strategic and operational leader with vision for the future of health professions-related graduate and professional education, an ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, and the desire to listen and learn, while simultaneously possessing a bias for action.

The Senior Director will lead and manage the expansion of a program portfolio that includes graduate programs, professional and online offerings, special session coursework, and other strategic initiatives as defined by the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.  The Senior Director will work to enhance the visibility, diversity, and flexibility of graduate programs, aligning them with the university's strategic plan, and positioning Franklin Pierce as a leader in lifelong learning and professional development through new graduate degrees, accelerated pathways, stackable credentials, and non-credit professional development offerings.  Additionally, the Senior Director will contribute to the development and implementation of the university's strategic plan as a key member of the leadership team, ensuring effective management of graduate and professional program budgets, and building and maintaining strong relationships with faculty, students, staff, and external partners.

Position Requirements:

• Assist the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs in developing a comprehensive vision and executing a strategic plan for the growth of health professions graduate and professional programs.
  • Synthesize and present market data, benchmarking analysis, and proforma budgets to drive new health professions program development and growth opportunities in graduate and professional studies programs for review by the Provost.
  • Conduct market research and feasibility studies to analyze the demand, viability, innovative opportunities, and alternative delivery formats for new graduate and professional programs.
  • Oversee the launch, implementation, operations, and evaluation of new programs, including supporting the college deans in leadership and faculty searches and onboarding.
  • Engage with external stakeholders, including industry partners, alumni, and professional associations, to enhance graduate program relevance and currency.
• Analyze graduate enrollment trends and collaborate with constituents across the university to implement strategies to optimize student recruitment and retention.
• Partner with college deans to support the operations of graduate and professional programs and align future pipeline programs with market needs.
• Establish and assist in the implementation of operational policies and procedures, business practices, and quality standards for graduate and professional programs.
• Explore channels and opportunities to provide greater visibility for the University, synergistic connections across academic units, and increased enrollment by non-traditional student populations.
• Work closely with university faculty and administration to foster understanding of, support for, and participation in entrepreneurial initiatives both on and off campus.
• Work with key internal stakeholders to identify funding opportunities for graduate program expansion, an expanded research infrastructure, and community impact projects.
• Work with the relevant colleges to support the development and project management of new professional development programs (i.e., continuing medical education credits).
• Participate in both on-campus and external committees as needed to support graduate studies and professional programs at FPU.
• Travel to Franklin Pierce University’s Graduate Academic Centers will be a required component of this role to facilitate program development and operational oversight.

Qualifications

• The successful candidate will have a master’s degree and at least ten years of demonstrated, progressive higher education academic and administrative leadership and/or business/sales/entrepreneurial success required.
• A track record of engagement in graduate studies and experience, or strong interest in strengthening and expanding self-sustaining, continuing, and professional education programs is required.
• Demonstrated written and oral communication skills and strong interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with faculty, students, and administration as well as with government, business, and civic leaders in the service area(s).
• Knowledge of best practices in graduate studies; experience in the governance of graduate programs, and continuing education; knowledge of existing policies, procedures, and practices related to graduate studies, including curricular processes and new program planning, development, approval, and implementation.
• Possession of analytical skills, creativity, and administrative skills necessary to suggest improvements. Demonstrated skills in coordinating graduate and/or continuing education programming, including marketing, recruitment, and retention of students.
• Skilled in budget development and ability to monitor income and expenditures to assure budgeted activities operate within said budget and ability to take appropriate corrective action when and where necessary.
• Experience with grants and external funding opportunities preferred.
• These qualifications may be waived for individuals with appropriate alternate administrative or academic experience.

Benefits

At Franklin Pierce University, we take pride in providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to support the well-being and security of our valued employees. Here are some highlights of the benefits you can enjoy as part of the Franklin Pierce community:

• Paid Time Off (PTO) : Enjoy 160 hours (4 weeks) of Paid Time Off, along with additional paid sick time for your well-being.
• Paid Holidays : Benefit from 20 paid holidays, including a 10-day winter break with full pay.
• Health and Wellness : Access medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family, ensuring comprehensive health care.
• Life Insurance : Secure the future for yourself and your family with employer-paid Life Insurance coverage ranging from 1.5x to 3.0x your salary, depending on your role.
• Disability Coverage : We cover both short-term and long-term disability, providing financial protection in unforeseen circumstances.
• Retirement Planning : Contribute to your retirement with our 403(b) plan, with immediate 100% vesting. Franklin Pierce University also makes contributions to support your long-term financial goals upon one year of employment or if qualified with prior higher education employment.
• Educational Benefits : Invest in your growth and development with our tuition benefits, allowing you and your qualifying family members to pursue undergraduate and graduate programs.
• Additional Perks : Enjoy various perks, including pet insurance, accident insurance, critical illness coverage, travel discounts, local business discounts, and more!

At Franklin Pierce, we prioritize the well-being, development, and satisfaction of our employees. We are committed to providing a supportive work environment and a range of benefits that align with your needs and aspirations. Explore additional details about Franklin Pierce University's vibrant community and the enchanting Monadnock Region through the following resources:

• Delve into our campus life and stories with e-versions of our Campus Magazine, Pierce. https://www.franklinpierce.edu/alumni/news/pierce-magazine/index.html
• Discover the unique features and attractions of the Monadnock Region through the Thrive Guide. https://issuu.com/mcleancommunications/docs/monadnock_thrive_guide_24

These resources offer valuable insights into the rich experiences awaiting you at Franklin Pierce University and the surrounding community. Come join us in shaping the future of education at Franklin Pierce!

About FPU

Since its establishment in 1962, Franklin Pierce University has been a catalyst for the academic success and personal growth of numerous undergraduate and graduate students. Rooted in a robust liberal education foundation, we provide majors and programs that cultivate vital professional skills, foster close relationships among students, faculty, and staff, and offer personalized, financially accessible academic opportunities that empower our students to realize their full potential.

Our impact extends across a diverse range of learners, including residential undergraduates, online students, and full-time graduate students, through our primary campus in Rindge, NH and additional online and graduate centers in Manchester and Lebanon, NH, Austin, TX and Goodyear, AZ. As we uphold our commitment to excellence, we continually explore innovative models and programs that build upon our rich legacy, guiding students to expand their knowledge, pursue their passions, and graduate as capable, engaged leaders.

At Franklin Pierce University, we hold firm in our belief that establishing a lasting legacy involves supporting and preparing students to thrive as leaders and contributing members of society. To achieve this mission, we recognize the importance of fostering a diverse community comprised of exceptional individuals from various backgrounds, all dedicated to advancing our shared goals.

Notice of Nondiscrimination
Franklin Pierce University does not discriminate on the basis of sex and prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and its regulations, including in admission and employment.

Diversifying the student body, faculty, and administration is congruent with our mission. We value diverse populations and cultures including, but not limited to, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, national origin, neurodiversity, race, and religion. Franklin Pierce University is an EO/AA/Vet/Disability employer.