Position Title: Center Director Location: Tropical Island Biodiversity Studies -Bocas del Toro, Isla Solarte, Republic of Panama Program Objective: The central theme of The School for Field Studies (SFS) Panama study abroad program is "islands as a delicate system," with emphasis on the resources of Panama's spectacular coastal and marine environments. Students will explore several key interfaces: human and natural systems, terrestrial and marine ecosystems, and conservation and development. The goal of this undergraduate study abroad program is to assess the state of the archipelago's fragile natural habitats, define the main environmental issues, and understand the community goals in natural resource management. Our ultimate goal is to help islanders maintain balance and harmony between people and nature in this fragile ecosystem. Reports To: President of SFS Position Summary: This position is responsible for administering all aspects of the SFS program in Panama: Tropical Island Biodiversity Studies (TIBS), including staff management and team building; oversight of Center operations, finance and administration; academic program planning, delivery and evaluation; the Center's Research Plan and securing grant support; and representation of the Center in local, regional and international arenas. Serve as part of a residential team of faculty and staff that delivers an interdisciplinary, hands-on learning experience to students spending a semester abroad. Center Director - Duties and Responsibilities: Program Administration
* Lead program planning activities prior to semester program, and debrief following student departures, including written reports to HQ * Lead regular staff, faculty and student meetings in support of program delivery * Resolve student discipline problems * On a rotating basis, act as "staff of the day" * Live on-site for the duration of each program period and take meals with the students Personnel Management * Supervise small professional staff * Support a strong Center team and School-wide relationships through regular meetings and open communication * Collaborate with the SFS HQ to recruit and retain qualified faculty and staff, to create opportunities for professional development and to terminate positions as needed, consistent with SFS policies * Monitor performance of Center staff throughout the year and conduct formal staff performance reviews to set and meet performance objectives Fiscal & Facility Management * Ensure sound fiscal management through careful review of the budget and expenditures, working closely with the International Operations Manager and the SFS Chief Financial Officer to develop and manage operating and capital budgets * Work with Site Manager to carry out facility and vehicle and vessel maintenance and replacement and to manage the import process of goods and consumables * Assume overall safety of all program participants, staff and visitors, working closely with the Student Affairs Manager including the enforcement of program vehicle and boat policies, diving protocols, and program risk assessment and management plans * Ensure the Center operates in a manner which is consistent with local, regional, and national laws, regulations and codes * In coordination with the Site Manager, serve as caretaker for the Center site during non-program and intersession periods Academic & Research Program Management * Work with the SFS Office of Academic Affairs, the Center team, clients and stakeholders to ensure ongoing implementation and development of the Center's Research Plan, including appropriate involvement of students, publication of results, data management and record keeping, retention of partners and achievement of research goals * Review with the Office of Academic Affairs the undergraduate academic curriculum and work with the faculty to update and improve pedagogy and content of classes and field work * Review program evaluations and implement actions to maintain high academic quality standards * Promote the participation of local and international experts and partners in both the teaching and research programs * Advise students where appropriate to assist in the success of their academic program * Adhere to and enforce SFS academic policies for students and faculty Outreach * Work with the HQ staff to identify funding sources in support of the Center and assist in grant writing * Work with HQ staff to create and publish center specific marketing materials * Actively seek out and participate in outreach activities at the local, regional and national levels to entities such as universities, research organizations, businesses, agencies and community institutions * Serve as primary spokesperson for the Center * Attend relevant local and international conferences, seminars and workshops * Take part in Center social and field activities * Work to ensure consistently good relations between the Center and its stakeholders and neighbors Daily Center Life * Live on-site for the duration of each program period and take meals with the students * On a rotating basis, take responsibility for "staff of the day" duties * Take part in, and occasionally lead community outreach, site upkeep projects, social and field activities * Drive standard transmission vehicles and boats as needed * Adhere to, actively model and enforce all SFS and program policies and procedures Qualifications: * Demonstrated upper level organizational management experience in such areas as project management, conducting academic and/or research programs, or heading environmental issue-driven projects, programs or organizations * Ph.D. or equivalent degree in an appropriate field of study with demonstrated research and field experience * Minimum three years' experience in university teaching * Demonstrated ability to coordinate and be part of an interdisciplinary teaching and research team * Knowledge of U.S. higher education system * Knowledge of Caribbean island life, including culture, history, and governmental operations * Experience living at a field station preferred * Valid driver's license Preferred Qualifications: * SCUBA certification * Valid boat driver's license * Working knowledge of Spanish language Expectations: * Demonstrated commitment to environmental issues * Commitment to academic success of SFS students and faculty * Willingness to work flexible hours and live on site at the program site(s) with a resident, full-time team of faculty and staff, groups of US undergraduate students and visiting researchers * Ability to travel locally and internationally to support the program's academic work and administration * Enthusiastic approach to problem solving, collegial attitude and entrepreneurial spirit Compensation/Benefits: * Salary commensurate with qualifications, on-site housing and meals, relocation assistance, and excellent benefits package included. To Apply: Submit a detailed cover letter outlining relevant experiences and addressing the qualifications and expectations stated above and curriculum vitae online at http://fieldstudies.catsone.com/careers/index.php?m=portal&a=details&jobOrde rID=3867094. Recommendation letters will be required upon request. Equal Opportunity Employer
