Executive Director, Academic and Professional Programs, TExpL

About Alvernia University:

Alvernia University was founded in 1958 by the Bernardine Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis. Through its main campus in Reading and locations in Philadelphia and Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, the university serves 3,000 students of diverse backgrounds from around the country.   

Alvernia offers a unique blend of rigorous liberal arts core education for developing the mind, strong technical training in many high-demand majors, experiential learning through study abroad and internship experiences, and engagement with the community through our Franciscan-based community service model. We call our model of transformational education the Alvernia Advantage, and we believe this style of education transforms students into ethical leaders with moral courage.   

Alvernia University ranks in the top 100 among 2021 Best Regional Universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report, and we are recognized as a College of Distinction for our commitment to engaged experiential education.  

Essential Functions:

• Leadership & Vision: Develop and articulate a clear vision for the Professional Programs division of TExpL, setting strategic goals and leading the team in achieving them.
• Program Management: Oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of current professional  TExpL programs and initiatives, including professional development programs, TExpL graduate courses (TExpL certificate and study abroad courses), curriculum development projects, and workshops. Future implementations may include leading the creation of related dual enrollment and undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including certificates, micro-certificates, master’s, and doctorate programs. The ability to bring credit-bearing programs into fruition through collaboration with the provost, academic leadership, and faculty of Alvernia University will be vital.
• Team Leadership: Hire, manage, mentor, and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Curriculum Development: Drive the innovative curriculum development necessary to equip professionals with cutting-edge skills and knowledge through TExpL, ensuring the TExpL programs stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape.
• Professional Programs Growth and Revenue Production: Promote, sell, and secure contracts and business opportunities, driving the growth, success, and revenue diversification of the professional programs division.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including educational institutions, partners, and clients, ensuring alignment with their needs and expectations.
• Quality Assurance: Ensure that all programs and initiatives meet or exceed industry standards, maintaining the highest level of educational quality and effectiveness.
• Resource Management: Oversee the allocation and management of resources, including budgeting, staffing, and materials, to ensure efficient and effective program delivery.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilize data and feedback to inform program improvements, ensuring that offerings are relevant, impactful, and aligned with the latest educational trends and research.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with other divisions and departments in the TExpL Institute and Alvernia University to ensure cohesive and integrated program offerings.
• Represent TExpL Professional Programs at conferences, seminars, and other professional events to enhance the visibility and reputation of the organization.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging best practices to inform program development and strategy.
• Provide regular reports and updates to senior leadership on the progress and impact of TExpL programs.
• Other duties as assigned by the Vice President of Innovation and Educational Ventures.

Qualifications/Education:

• Preferred doctorate degree, minimum master’s degree.
• Commitment to the mission statement, core values, and goals of Alvernia University.
• Minimum of 3 years experience in Science Research Institute and/or Total Experience Learning® educational environments or related experience in experiential learning environments.
• Extensive experience teaching at any level.
• Experience with state and federal departments of education regulatory frameworks.
• Proven experience in a leadership role within an educational, training, or professional development environment.
• Strong background in curriculum development, instructional design, or a related field.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and inspire a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, manage, and develop high-performing teams.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Experience with budget management and resource allocation.
• Data-driven mindset, with the ability to analyze and interpret data to inform decision-making.

Physical Requirements:

• Attendance is required to perform the duties of this job.
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.