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Executive Director, Roger F. Wicker Center for Ocean Enterprise

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Executive Director, Roger F. Wicker Center for Ocean Enterprise.

Position Details

Location Marine Research Center

1030 West Pier, Port of Gulfport

Gulfport, Mississippi, 39501

United States

Division Ocean Enterprise

Position Type Staff

Employment Status Full Time

Grant Funded Yes

Pay Grade

Generic Grade

Posting Close Date 6/30/2025

Job Summary

The Executive Director of the Roger F. Wicker Center for Ocean Enterprise will be responsible for overseeing a new research and development facility focused on blue technology innovation. Their duties will include managing the facility, supporting leasing and outreach efforts, and fostering a collaborative environment for economic development. The goal is to advance new technologies to market and meet the research and development needs of various partners, including federal, state, academic, and industry entities.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

+ Financial Leadership and Strategic Growth: As the Executive Director, you will be responsible for the overall financial health and strategic direction of the Roger F. Wicker Center for Ocean Enterprise. This includes developing and implementing comprehensive business plans, managing fiscal resources, and driving sustainable growth through strategic initiatives.

+ Operations Management and Tenant Relations: You will oversee all operational aspects of the Center, including staff management, policy development, contract negotiations, and tenant relations. Your focus will be on ensuring a high level of tenant satisfaction by providing exceptional support and addressing their needs proactively.

+ Business Development and Fundraising: You will actively seek out new business opportunities and funding sources through strategic outreach, relationship building, and effective marketing. Your ability to connect with potential clients, government officials, and industry influencers will be crucial to the Center's success.

+ Development and Collaboration: You will play a key role in supporting USM’s vibrant blue economy innovation ecosystem by collaborating with various stakeholders, including other USM units, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and economic development entities. Your ability to build strong partnerships and drive collaborative initiatives will be essential.

+ Talent Management and Development: You will be responsible for recruiting, supervising, and providing career development opportunities for the Center's staff. Your leadership will be instrumental in creating a positive and supportive work environment that attracts and retains top talent.

+ Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

A Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., marine, coastal and ocean science, ocean engineering, data science, marine policy, maritime logistics, robotics, etc) and 5 years of related experience. Ability to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and clear other research security and export control regulations.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

+ Strategic Thinking: Aligns center goals with institutional strategy, analyzes root causes, and understands the interconnectedness of decisions.

+ Professional Development: Continuously seeks to improve knowledge and skills, applies new learnings, and fosters a culture of development.

+ Business Execution: Effectively plans, organizes, and executes projects, leverages expertise and university knowledge, and demonstrates strong marketing, negotiation, and legal acumen.

+ Communication: Delivers clear, concise, and timely communication, encourages open dialogue, and adapts communication style to various audiences.

+ Relationship Management: Builds and maintains strong relationships with peers, leaders, and customers, collaborates effectively, and influences decisions through trust and credibility.

+ Leadership: Demonstrates flexibility, influences change, coaches and develops others, provides meaningful feedback, and holds employees accountable.

Preferred Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess a doctorate degree with 8-10 years of experience in technology-based innovation. They should have a strong background in team leadership, business strategy, and management, as well as at least 5 years of experience in multi-million-dollar contract negotiations, customer relations, and business development. Additionally, excellent written and oral communication skills, computer proficiency, and interpersonal skills are essential. A solid understanding of economic development principles is also beneficial.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.