President of Colorado State University Global

Position Summary:

In accordance with the policies of the Board of Governors of the Colorado State University System, the President of Colorado State University Global serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the institution. As an officer of the Colorado State University System, the President is appointed by the Board and has a dual reporting relationship to the CSU System Chancellor and the Board, with the Board as the final authority.

The President of CSU Global provides visionary strategic leadership for the institution and performs those duties and responsibilities that are customarily performed by university presidents and as may be required or assigned by the Chancellor or the Board. The President is responsible for the overall management and supervision of the staff and faculty of CSU Global, as well as the preparation and implementation of effective budget and fiscal management of the university and its operations. The President also complies with all Bylaws and policies of the Board of Governors, as well as CSU-Global policies, and applicable law.

The President is charged with achieving the Strategic Goals for CSU Global and developing those goals and strategic plans in consultation with the campus, Board, and Chancellor. The President is responsible for communicating the institution’s vision to all constituencies and ensuring that it is reflected in the long-range strategic and budgetary plans of CSU Global.  The President serves as the public spokesperson for CSU Global and participates in oversight of governmental relations for the institution.

The primary responsibilities of this position require leadership in all aspects of CSU Global.  This includes the ability to develop and foster teamwork, strong academic excellence, efficiency and effectiveness, board relations, financial reporting and business results, which include the management and growth of CSU Global. In fulfillment of the responsibilities as President, specific duties include:

  • Provide entrepreneurial, innovative, and visionary leadership for Colorado State University Global (CSUG) by fostering the development of the campus community and the fulfillment of the distinctive mission of the institution, while promoting an environment that is conducive to and supportive of teaching, learning, robust intellectual interaction and exchange, creativity, diversity, and achievement.
  • Oversee and ensure accountability for the appropriate use of funds and resources for and by the institution in accordance with the established business model for CSU Global.
  • Being responsible for the institution’s adherence to applicable federal and state law, as well as Board and institutional policies in the fulfillment of the institution’s mission.
  • Recruit, develop, and maintain executive officers for the institution who are dedicated to the fulfillment of the institution’s mission, and evaluate their performance annually, reporting the results to the Chancellor and the Board in Executive Session.
  • Lead the effective marketing of the university and its academic programs to attract students and industry partners.
  • Spearhead development of innovative programs and approaches that advance the mission of CSU Global and support the needs of students and industry partners.
  • Plan and oversee the institution’s plan for attracting external public and private support for and with the institution to assure sufficient resources for the fulfillment of the institution’s mission.
  • Assist the Chancellor in organizing the meetings and agendas of the Board, in consultation with the Chair, for the efficient and effective use of the time, energy, and talents of the Board.
  • Oversee and approve all campus items for placement on the Board and Board Committee meeting agendas, complete with necessary supporting documents, and submit the items to the Chancellor for review.
  • Act as the public spokesperson and advocate for CCSUG, and on request from the Chancellor, for the CSU System and the Board.
  • In concert with the Chancellor, oversee all governmental relations for CSUG and provide or arrange official testimony on behalf of the institution and its constituent entities to the Governor, State Legislature, U.S. Congress, federal and state agencies, and any other organizations necessary for the advancement and governance of the campus.
  • Plan and conduct appropriate marketing and public relations for CSUG, including media events, press conferences, announcements, news releases, talks and speeches, and public service, to raise public awareness of and enhance the image of the institution by promoting its mission, aspirations, accomplishments, and contributions.
  • Oversee the development and implementation of CSUG’s Strategic Plans within the context of the CSU System Strategic Plan, informing the Chancellor and the Board, public, and policy makers of accomplishments and progress toward achievement of goals, including the affirmative action, outreach, financial, academic, and diversity goals adopted by the institution and the CSU System.
  • Provide leadership for the periodic review of CSUG’s programs, policies, and performance to ensure continued accreditation and fulfill the overall goal of excellence in online teaching and learning.
  • Present reports to the Chancellor and the Board annually on progress, timely issues, policy and program direction, and market conditions.
  • Work in collaboration and partnership with the leadership of the other CSU System institutions and System to advance the mission of the CSU System and realize the most effective and efficient use of available resources.
  • Perform or oversee the performance of all other functions necessary to the effective operation of CSUG in accordance with Board and CSU System policies and direction.
  • Prepare and implement effective budgetary and fiscal management of CSUG.
  • Ensure consistent and professional communication with faculty and staff of CSU Global around organizational direction, decision-making, and priorities.
  • Perform the duties as outlined in the applicable Employment Agreement and as may be assigned by the Chancellor or the Board.
Minimum Requirements:
  • Earned terminal degree.
  • Minimum of five (5) years professional experience as a university president or senior higher-education administrator with significant experience in online education and online education delivery systems.
  • Strong demonstrated knowledge of the CSU Global business model, structure, and strategic plan, specifically derived from current employment at CSU Global.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with and knowledge of the mission, history, and goals of the CSU System.
  • Strong existing connections within Colorado higher education, Colorado K-12, and Colorado business and industry.
  • Strong commitment and understanding of academic quality and commitment to achieving, maintaining, and protecting program accreditation.
  • Strong leadership and communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage and motivate professionals as a cohesive team.
  • Ability to interact with all levels of management, faculty, and students.
Application Procedures:

Application materials from current CSU Global employees who meet these qualifications should be submitted by e-mail to Melanie Geary at the CSU System office – melanie.geary@colostate.edu – no later than July 3, 2020.  Applications must include:  (1) detailed letter of interest addressing interest in and qualifications for the position; (2) current resume or curriculum vitae; (3) the applicant’s five year plan for CSU Global; and (4) three names, addresses, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses for references.

Nominations for the position should be sent by e-mail to Melanie Geary at melanie.geary@colostate.edu.

After July 3, 2020, the search committee for the next President of CSU Global will review application materials and select applicants for interviews.  Applicants will be considered on the basis of their qualifications as related to the duties and responsibilities of the position.  A satisfactory background check is required as part of the selection process.

The Board of Governors anticipates making a hiring decision at its upcoming meeting on August 6-7, 2020. The anticipated start date for the next President is September 1, 2020.  Salary is commensurate with experience.

The Colorado State University System is committed to providing an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based on race, age, creed, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or pregnancy and will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant.  The Colorado State University System is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all applicable federal and Colorado laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action.