Institution

University of South Dakota

Rank

Dean

Area(s)

Beacom School of Business

Location

Vermillion, South Dakota, United States

Start Date

July 1, 2014

Deadline

Until Filled

Job Description

The University of South Dakota (USD) invites inquiries, nominations and applications for the position of Dean of the Beacom School of Business. The dean will report directly to the provost and has responsibility for academic, fiscal and administrative leadership for the Beacom School of Business. The Beacom School of Business supports approximately 40 faculty and offers students a quality business education that goes beyond expectations. Its alumni have become global leaders in such fields as accounting, finance, economics, management, marketing, and health services administration. It is the only business program in South Dakota to hold AACSB International accreditation. Business students typically score in the top 15% of all business students taking the national exit exam for business and have recently scored in the top 5%. The Beacom School of Business has a strong curriculum using effective and innovative instructional methods. It has a strong scholarship base as well as good corporate relationships that provide excellent career opportunity for graduates. In addition, USD's Master of Business Administration program has received the Rising Stars recognition from FindyourMBA.com. Its website cites USD's Beacom School of Business for providing "a first–rate learning environment for both on campus and distance students”. It is the only business school from the Great Plains region to be represented on the Rising Stars “A” list. Its graduate programs include joint JD/MBA and JD/MPA programs with the USD School of Law.

The University of South Dakota is a comprehensive, public liberal arts and research university with an enrollment of approximately 10,000 students. Located in Vermillion, SD, USD is the state's flagship institution and is designated the only public liberal arts university in South Dakota. A vibrant setting for innovation, artistry and discovery, with research and creative activity opportunities across disciplines, USD was named one of the nation’s best institutions for outstanding undergraduate education by The Princeton Review’s Best 377 Colleges: 2013 Edition. It has recently completed $100 million of capital projects including the new Beacom Hall, home to the business school. The University of South Dakota is committed to becoming a regional leader in diversity and inclusiveness initiatives and the practice of inclusive excellence. Vermillion, South Dakota, is located on the banks of the Missouri River. Income tax free South Dakota soared to the top of CNBC’s America’s Top States for Business in 2013. Factors contributing to this #1 ranking included the economy, quality of life, cost of doing business and cost of living. Its economy includes a vibrant trust sector. Trust companies formed in South Dakota now administer over $120 billion of assets.

The Beacom School of Business dean will provide leadership to the school; support faculty in achieving and maintaining excellence in teaching, research and service; and, together with faculty, ensure academic excellence. The dean is expected to cultivate strong alumni and external relationships, work closely with South Dakota and regional business leaders, and to engage in extensive fund–raising activities, including in the context of a comprehensive university campaign. The University of South Dakota seeks a dean with a successful record of teaching, administration, scholarship, and experience in business.

Successful candidates for the position of Dean should have a doctorate in business, economics, or related field; other advanced degrees in business, economics, or related fields may be considered. Successful teaching experience in a business school (in any capacity) is strongly preferred along with a demonstrated understanding of higher education, business education and pedagogy, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. A record of achievement in scholarship and/or the business sector; strong communication and interpersonal skills; and significant administrative and leadership experience are required. Inquiries, nominations and applications are invited. Applications should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae and the names and contact information for five references. Additional information about the University of South Dakota and the position can be found at http://www.usd.edu/business.

The search will be conducted with respect to the confidentiality of candidates; references will not be contacted without the prior knowledge and approval of the candidate. Applications, nominations or confidential inquiries concerning this search may be sent electronically by email Lucy Leske and Jennifer Biehn, the Witt/Kieffer consultants supporting the University of South Dakota with this search, at USDBusinessDean@wittkieffer.com. Review of candidate materials will begin immediately, with an expected appointment beginning July 1, 2014.

The University of South Dakota is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty, staff and students. The University seeks to promote a culture of inclusive excellence in every facet of the institution.

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