Position Title:  Chief Academic Officer

Classification Title:  FT Administrator - Major Director

Department:  VP of Academic Affairs

Position Status:  Full Time

Position Summary:

The position of Chief Academic Officer for the School of Optometry at University of Detroit Mercy is responsible for as a member of the leadership team, the development and administration of the newly announced Optometry program.

The position encompasses two phases, providing a unique opportunity for the candidate to build an exceptional program to complement the educational opportunities built on the Detroit Mercy legacy of excellence.

The first phase holds focus on collaborating with university leadership to develop and establish a Doctor of Optometry Program at University of Detroit Mercy; coordinating the preparation of materials and documentation required for accreditation by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE); establishing goals and strategies for faculty recruitment, program marketing, and student recruitment; and collaborating with the Dean of the School of Dentistry and other university personnel to develop plans for classroom, laboratory and other required resources for the program. The candidate will work in conjunction with the Dean of the School of Dentistry, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and President of the University.

The second phase, following ACOE approval, focuses on recruiting and leading the faculty and staff in determining the academic and clinical program; and meeting academic, accreditation, legal and regulatory guidelines to maintain the quality and integrity of the academic program, as one in the forefront of the profession. The program will build upon and leverage the clinical services and core basic sciences curriculum provided as part of the School of Dentistry.

The School of Optometry is located in Novi, Michigan.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Ensure that the academic and patient-care missions of the program are accomplished;
• Oversee the process of developing and maintaining an evidence-based curriculum;
• Provide leadership for recruiting and retaining highly qualified faculty, staff and students;
• Promote the program and University’s positive image, state-of-the-art facilities, and
educational programs;
• Ensure the efficient administration of program matters pertaining to personnel, facilities, budget, equipment, and planning;
• Supervise the program’s service outreach including underserved communities through
activities such as providing patient care services, enhancing interdisciplinary and inter-professional collaborations, and developing and enhancing positive relationships with alumni, industry, and educational institutions and government agencies; and
• Lead fundraising and philanthropy activities from friends and foundations interested in supporting the goals and mission of the optometry program.
• Other duties as assigned, or as need arises relating to the effective implementation of the program.

Education (Minimum/Preferred):

• The successful candidate should hold a Doctorate of Optometry from an ACOE accredited institution.

Experience (Minimum/Preferred):

• Have a minimum of three years of leadership experience as an academic program leader/ preceptorship program or dean at a school of Optometry and/or a teaching hospital or clinic where optometry students practice clinical skills;
• Have leadership and administrative experience, abilities and qualities to manage academic and clinical programs at the professional doctoral level; and
• Possess Optometric educator / preceptorship experience and abilities and excellent organizational skills in previous positions; and
• A record of developing and maintaining a progressive and productive environment that
supports teaching, clinical practice, and research activities.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Exhibit a strong understanding of the accreditation standards and accreditation requirements for ACOE institutions;
• Understanding of, and commitment to the pedagogy of classroom, laboratory, and clinical education;
• Comprehensive administrative skills, including communication, supervision and budget management;
• Personal qualities of integrity, organization, enthusiasm and industriousness; and
• Exhibit a history of demonstrating strong character, collegiality and outstanding integrity.

Physical Requirements:

Job may require lifting light weight objects (1 to 10 pounds) with no repetitive bending or stooping. Occasionally lift average weight objects (1 to 10 pounds).

Work Environment:

Regular exposure to favorable conditions such as those found in a normal office.

Licenses/Certifications:

Must obtain a license to practice Optometry within the State of Michigan within 12 months of appointment to the Faculty.

Open Date: 09/25/2020

Salary/Pay Information:  Commensurate with experience

Anticipated Schedule:  Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 5:00pm

About University of Detroit Mercy

Michigan’s largest, most comprehensive private university, the University of Detroit Mercy is an independent Catholic institution of higher education sponsored by the Religious Sisters of Mercy and Society of Jesus.  The university seeks qualified candidates who will contribute to the University's urban mission, commitment to diversity, and tradition of scholarly excellence.  The University of Detroit Mercy is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer with a diverse faculty and student body and welcomes persons of all backgrounds.