Director, Institute for Cybersecurity - College of Business and Computing

Southeast Missouri State University•Cape Girardeau, MO

11d

About The Position

The Director of the Institute for Cybersecurity provides strategic leadership, vision, and management for Southeast Missouri State University’s Institute for Cybersecurity, including oversight of the Charles Stamp Cyber Command Center and the Cyber Range. The Director advances the Institute’s mission to prepare students for cybersecurity careers, serve the region through community education and workforce training, and strengthen SEMO’s position in cybersecurity education and industry partnerships. The role develops and implements a strategic plan aligned with SEMO’s mission and regional workforce needs; builds partnerships with industry, government, and community organizations; and designs and oversees cybersecurity workshops, bootcamps, training, certification preparation, attack simulation, technical training, and executive briefings. The Director ensures continuous improvement of offerings and manages the Institute’s budget, staffing, resources, revenue generation, and research initiatives. The position supervises the Project and Training Coordinator, adjunct instructors, and student assistants, and supports the NSA Center of Academic Excellence designation. The position is full-time and will begin as soon as possible. The application deadline for full consideration is November 13, 2026; the position remains open until filled.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field; alternatively, a bachelor’s degree and at least five years of experience in advanced cybersecurity roles.
Demonstrated leadership experience in cybersecurity education, industry, or applied research.
Strong knowledge of cybersecurity threats, practices, and technologies.
Proven record of program development, grant writing, or revenue generation.
Experience engaging with community organizations, businesses, and professional audiences.
Ability to support and help maintain the NSA Center of Academic Excellence designation.
Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

Nice To Haves

Certifications such as CISSP, CEH, or Security+.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan for the Institute aligned with SEMO’s mission and regional workforce needs.
Cultivate partnerships with industry, government agencies, and community organizations to expand the Institute’s impact and visibility.
Design, oversee, and, when appropriate, deliver cybersecurity workshops, bootcamps, and training for youth, seniors, professionals, and corporate clients.
Expand offerings in certification preparation, attack simulation, technical training, and executive briefings.
Continuously improve curriculum based on participant feedback, threat intelligence, and emerging technologies.
Manage the Institute’s budget, staffing, and resources to ensure sustainability and growth.
Oversee revenue generation from community workshops, corporate training, and grant funding.
Supervise the Project and Training Coordinator, adjunct instructors, and student assistants.
Position the Institute as a regional hub for cybersecurity awareness and workforce readiness.
Engage advisory boards, professional associations, and partner businesses to align offerings with market demand.
Promote outreach to schools, libraries, community centers, and senior organizations to expand cybersecurity literacy.
Foster applied research initiatives addressing cybersecurity challenges in industry and government.
Leverage the Cyber Command Center and Cyber Range for simulation-based learning, research, and innovation.
Support the NSA Center of Academic Excellence and assist with maintaining that designation.