Southwest Washington Regional Director

Washington State University•South Bend, IN

1d•Onsite

About The Position

As the Regional Director for Washington State University (WSU) Extension in the Southwest Washington Region, this role involves providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and collaborative engagement across multiple county offices. The Southwest Washington Region encompasses Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, Pacific, Thurston, and Wahkiakum counties, characterized by diverse communities, strong local economies, and significant natural resources. The Director ensures alignment with WSU Extension’s mission, vision, and goals, fosters strong partnerships with local and tribal governments and other stakeholders, and supports a cohesive and effective team of Extension professionals. Key responsibilities also include guiding program development, ensuring fiscal and operational compliance, and fostering an environment of innovation and excellence in service to communities. The successful candidate is expected to reside in or contiguous to the defined region to facilitate regular (weekly) travel within the region, with the home office location to be negotiated within the region.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
Six (6) years of progressively responsible relevant experience.
At least three (3) years of managerial experience.
Demonstrated excellence in oral and written communication, with the ability to engage diverse audiences and quickly learn university policies, principles, and procedures.
Proven ability to lead and collaborate effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders, including staff, faculty, and community partners.
Strong leadership, organizational, and project management skills, with experience in supervising teams, developing programs and services, and managing departmental budgets.
Skilled in strategic planning and policy development, with a track record of executing short- and long-term initiatives.
Able to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and exercise sound professional judgment while working both independently and as part of a team.
Willing and able to travel frequently throughout the region and work a flexible schedule, including evenings and occasional overnight trips.

Nice To Haves

Previous work experience in Extension or an institution of higher education.
Master’s degree in relevant field.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership, operational oversight, and collaborative engagement across multiple county offices within the assigned region.
Ensure alignment with WSU Extension’s mission, vision, and goals.
Foster strong partnerships with local and tribal governments and other stakeholders.
Support a cohesive, effective team of Extension professionals.
Guide program development.
Ensure fiscal and operational compliance.
Foster an environment of innovation and excellence in service to communities.