The Louisiana State University Agricultural Center (LSU AgCenter) FOODii is seeking a highly motivated and creative individual with an entrepreneurial spirit to provide leadership for the Louisiana Food Innovation Institute (FOODii) on the LSU AgCenter Campus in Baton Rouge, LA. The ideal candidate will have a track record of successful development of an institute or center in a scientific environment. They will have an entrepreneurial drive and approach to the position. Expertise in food production, food safety and security, and process development will be needed to support clientele in food-based industries. FOODii is a resource center where entrepreneurs can start a food business, process foods, receive technical and marketing assistance, and benefit from expert advice and research on food safety and food sustainability.
Reporting jointly to the Vice President for Agriculture and the Director of the School of Nutrition and Food Science, the FOODii Director will be responsible for overall leadership and management of the institute to ensure profitability, optimal performance, and success. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
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Creates and maintains the strategic plan for the institute in support and collaboration with the AgCenter, College of Agriculture, and School of Nutrition and Food Sciences.
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Innovates in ways that support new and improved outreach and research opportunities in the areas of food production, promotion, and protection of the consumer.
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Engages with food entrepreneurs and networks with the Louisiana, national, and international food industry by participating in trade shows and industry organizations including but not limited to the Specialty Food Association, Louisiana Business Incubator Association, and Institute of Food Technologists.
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Collaborates with other departments within the AgCenter and College of Agriculture as well as other campuses within the LSU enterprise.
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Develops and maintains policies and procedures utilized in all aspects of operations for the institute. Conducts necessary monitoring and reporting.
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Provides guidance and direction for marketing and public relations activities.
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Oversees the management of facilities to ensure the functionality, safety, sustainability, and efficiency of the built environment. Ensures proper utilization of resources including finances, faculty, staff, equipment, and facilities. Also ensures that appropriate safeguards are enacted for purposes of safety, compliance, and risk management.
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Provides technical guidance and leadership in food processing technology and quality assurance.
Qualification Requirements: Master’s degree in food science or closely related field that can include nutrition, agricultural engineering, or agriculture business. PhD preferred. Minimum of 7-10 years’ experience in food and/or agricultural related industry with a combination of extension and research in academia. Evidence of successful grantsmanship and stakeholder interaction are important considerations. The ability to work in a team environment with research and extension faculty representing other disciplines is critical. Previous experience in a senior leadership role and management of staff is preferred. Excellent communication skills, the ability to manage multiple projects at once, and a high degree of professionalism are required.
Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.
Date Available: Upon completion of the selection process.
Application Deadline: March 1, 2024, or until a suitable candidate is identified.
Application Procedure: Apply online at https://LSU.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/LSU (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching cover letter with resume including a statement of professional interest and goals, official university transcripts, contact information for three professional references, and a statement of administrative philosophy. Questions about the online application system should be directed to the HRM Office at 225/578-0324. Paper, fax, or e-mailed application materials will not be accepted, except reference letters. For more information, please reach out to:
Dr. Gina E. Eubanks
Associate Vice President
LSU AgCenter
225-578-6914
Email: geubanks@agcenter.lsu.edu
Website: www.lsuagcenter.com
The LSU Agricultural Center is a statewide campus of the LSU System and provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. An Equal Opportunity Employer.
