Executive Director, Chief Nursing Administrator

The mission of The University of Bridgeport is to promote academic excellence, personal responsibility, and commitment to service. Distinctive curricula in an international, culturally diverse supportive learning environment prepare graduates for life and leadership in an increasingly interconnected world.

Position Description Summary/Purpose:

The Executive Director of the School of Nursing plays a pivotal role in providing visionary leadership and strategic direction for the academic and administrative functions of the School, within the College of Health Sciences. The Executive Director will be a key contributor to the success and growth of the institution, playing a vital role in shaping the future of nursing education and healthcare.

The Executive Director will support faculty research and scholarship initiatives and promote service within the School of Nursing.

Essential Job Functions/Primary Responsibilities:

(The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.)

Leadership and Vision:

• Develop and communicate a compelling vision, mission and strategic plan for the School of Nursing that aligns with the institution's overall mission and strategic goals.

• Provide strategic leadership to advance the school's reputation, programs, and impact on healthcare education.

• Oversee the hiring and supervision of nursing program directors, full and part-time faculty.

Academic Excellence:

• Oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of high-quality nursing programs, ensuring compliance with accreditation standards and industry best practices.

• Foster a culture of academic excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.

• Provide academic advisement as appropriate.

Faculty and Staff Management:

• Recruit, mentor, and retain highly qualified faculty and staff.

• Facilitate professional development opportunities to enhance the skills and expertise of faculty members.

• Professional Development of Program Directors to ensure program excellence.

Student Success:

• Prioritize student success and engagement through the development and implementation of student-centered programs and support services.

• Monitor and enhance student enrollment, retention, and graduation rates.

Financial Management:

• Develop and manage the school's budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability.

• Seek external funding opportunities and grants to support research initiatives and program development.

Accreditation and Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with accreditation standards and regulations, working closely with accrediting bodies to maintain and enhance program accreditations.

• Stay informed about changes in nursing education and healthcare policy to adapt programs accordingly.

• Responsible for report writing and submission processes as required by the state DOE and nursing accreditation agencies.

• Report directly to Chief Academic Officer to maintain compliance with accrediting bodies

Strategic Planning:

• Collaborate with institutional leadership to contribute to the overall strategic planning and development of the institution.

• Identify and pursue opportunities for growth and expansion in alignment with the school's mission.

Community Engagement:

• Cultivate and maintain partnerships with healthcare institutions, industry leaders, and community organizations to enhance opportunities for student clinical experiences and collaborative research.

• Represent the school at relevant conferences, events, and community forums.

• Participate in faculty and professional development programs.

• Assist with extra-curricular activities.

• Attend graduation and other School of Nursing ceremonies

• Other duties assigned by the CHS Dean or Provost.

Other Functions:

• Be available for other duties as determined jointly with the Dean and/or Provost.

• Conducts all work in a safe manner and all work safety practices are followed.

• Performs similar or related work as required, directed or as situation dictates.

• Continues professional development and training; keeps current with trends.

• Assists other department staff as needed to promote a team effort.

Knowledge, Ability and Skill:

• Demonstrated commitment to developing and fostering best practices and policies to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and build an environment in which all members of the University community are treated with respect and dignity.

• Demonstrated leadership in higher education, including knowledge of and experience with strategic planning, organizational leadership, relationship-building with diverse constituent groups, budget and personnel management, accreditation, and grant writing

• Demonstrated experience with curriculum development and improvement, as well as learning outcomes and academic program assessment

• Excellent planning and organizational skills

• Ability to solve problems and make effective decisions in matters requiring immediate response

• Adaptable to performing under moderate levels of stress, imposed by frequent deadlines, peak workloads, or public/student/faculty contact

• Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to work well as a team member and lead in ways that align resources with goals.