Department Head - KHS

Utah State University•Logan, UT

About The Position

The Department of Kinesiology and Health Science (KHS) at Utah State University invites nominations and applications for the position of Department Head. We seek a transparent, proactive, and visionary leader whose record demonstrates distinction in research, teaching, and mentorship. The selected person will be expected to help the department increase its national and international reputation by promoting cutting-edge research initiatives, sustaining rigorous academic instruction, and engaging in meaningful service to the community and the state of Utah. This is a fiscal year administrative appointment with a start date of July 1, 2026. Review of applications will begin October 15, 2025 and continue until the position is filled. Inquiries may be directed to the search committee co-chairs, Dr. Brennan Thompson (435-797-5785; [email protected] ) or Dr. Scott Bates (435-797-2975; [email protected] ).

Requirements

An earned doctorate in one of the disciplines represented (kinesiology, recreation, sports management, public/community health, health science) in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Science or a closely related field.
A record of distinguished research, teaching, and other professional accomplishments that are commensurate with an appointment at the rank of Professor with tenure in KHS at Utah State University.
Evidence of successful academic leadership.

Nice To Haves

Experience as a department head/chair, associate department head, or undergraduate/graduate program chair.
Experience developing and managing budgets.
Record of submitting and obtaining extramural research grants.
Experience evaluating candidates for the tenure and promotion process and managing the tenure/promotion process.
Experience with program assessment or accreditation/reaccreditation.
Experience with advancement/development and alumni relations.
Demonstrated multidisciplinary experience and understanding, including the ability to engage with and appreciate the distinct perspectives, research approaches, and technical requirements across multiple subdisciplines within kinesiology and health science.
Evidence of teaching success and pedagogical innovation, with experience in experiential and online instruction, and demonstrated commitment to student mentorship and academic development.
National-level academic leadership and service within an area of kinesiology or health science.

Responsibilities

Leadership: In collaboration with departmental faculty and staff, continue developing and shaping a shared vision and strategic plan that aligns with college and university priorities; foster and support initiatives that strengthen research, education, and outreach; demonstrate a strong personal commitment to scholarly excellence and model collaborative leadership that advances the department’s mission in research, teaching, and service.
Personnel management: Provide oversight of all departmental personnel. This includes communicating clear expectations of job duties and performance; coordinating the hiring of faculty and staff; and maximizing faculty, staff, and student professional growth and potential.
Fiscal management: Engage in responsible budget management and oversee the development of strategic approaches for departmental budgeting, including areas that may result in budget growth.
Enrollment management: Develop and employ strategies to thoughtfully grow undergraduate and graduate enrollments in a way that meets the needs of students and addresses needs in the state of Utah.
Research and scholarship: Maintain an active program of research that enhances the department’s scientific contributions and reputation