Dean, Webb School of Engineering

The Dean of the Webb School of Engineering provides strategic leadership for the academic programs, faculty, and operations of the School, including Engineering, Computer Science, and Mathematical Sciences, and ensures alignment with the mission and priorities of the University. The Dean leads the development and execution of a forward-looking vision for the School, including curriculum innovation, enrollment growth, and program differentiation. The Dean is responsible for maintaining and securing appropriate accreditations (including ABET), recruiting and developing exceptional, student-focused faculty and staff, and expanding high-impact experiential learning opportunities. The Dean collaborates with admissions and university leadership to advance program visibility, student recruitment, and institutional reputation and provides leadership for all departments and academic programs within the School.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education

A doctorate in an engineering discipline from an accredited School of Engineering is preferred. Applicants holding doctorates in related fields will be considered.

Experience and Training

• Minimum of three to five years of academic program administration and leadership experience
• Demonstrated track record of teaching excellence and scholarly productivity commensurate with a lead academic officer of a School
• Proven track record of meeting the requirements of ABET accreditation
• Exceptional organizational, interpersonal, collaborative, team building, and communication skills (written and oral)
• Experience in managing complex budgets
• Demonstrated effectiveness in developing strategic industry partnerships
• Demonstrated ability to unite faculty across multiple disciplines or departments in pursuit of shared academic and strategic goals.

Knowledge, Skills, Ability

• Demonstrated understanding of technology use and AI applications in education and their potential impact on teaching and learning
• Strong leadership and management skills
• Demonstrated ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• Exceptional receptiveness and approachability
• Poised and professional in the representation of High Point University
• Receptive to feedback, performance improvement, and continuous coaching
• Shared commitment to High Point University’s core values and mission
• Strong ability to articulate operational and analytical data
• Adaptability
• Innovation
• Integrity
• Trustworthiness

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The candidate selected for this position will be expected to perform the following duties, including but not limited to:

Curriculum

• Takes the lead with ABET accreditation of programs
• Provides curricular leadership by initiating, sustaining, delivering, and/or modifying the curriculum in accordance with ABET accreditation standards as well as school and university-wide strategic planning goals
• Fosters the development and delivery of “best practices” in teaching both within the classroom and through strategic industry partnerships
• Regularly reviews and evaluates the curriculum for appropriate rigor and breadth
• Identifies industry partners that provide exceptional experiences for senior design projects, internships, co-ops, and other high impact practices for students

Faculty & Staff

• Develops and executes long-range staffing plans (for faculty and support staff) that are aligned with curriculum delivery and enrollment
• Ensures that faculty and staff are informed of ABET accreditation standards and organizational and educational policies that affect the delivery of educational services and operations of the program
• Mentors and oversees faculty growth, scholarship, and professional development
• Ensures documented curriculum and course assessment through development of learning objectives, identification of appropriate teaching strategies, and collection of data and feedback to ensure academic excellence, integrity of the program, and alignment with ABET standards
• Prepares annual performance reviews for all faculty and staff
• Directs and coordinates activities of academic advisors and departmental staff to ensure timely delivery of quality services

Learners

• Mediates between students and faculty in appropriate and legal ways; facilitates the resolution of disagreement or conflict between faculty and students
• Advises students on professional options within their chosen field
• Prepares letters of reference for learners
• Develops and expands appropriate alumni and community relationships

General Academic and Operational Responsibilities

• Provides the necessary leadership to advance the education mission of the university and the school and promotes a climate that is responsive, focused and innovative
• Keeps current on trends in higher education and pursues opportunities for improvement within their field
• Actively participates in marketing of the programs and represents the school and university to prospective students, professional organizations, potential future employers for students, and any other relevant constituencies
• Provides strategic oversight of school facilities, ensuring safe, efficient, and innovative learning and research environments
• Maintains and enhances the already excellent reputation of the school and university
• Advises the Provost, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, and the President on academic matters
• Performs other assignments on an ad hoc basis, as required
• Is fiscally responsible

For more information regarding this position, please contact Dr. Daniel Erb, Provost, at derb@highpoint.edu.