The University of Nebraska has announced a global search for a dynamic and visionary leader to serve as the next Executive Director of the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute (DWFI). This pivotal role offers a unique opportunity to spearhead a globally impactful institute dedicated to ensuring water and food security for all.
Established in 2010 through a landmark $50 million gift from the Robert B. Daugherty Charitable Foundation, DWFI was founded with a clear mission: to address the global challenge of achieving food security with less pressure on water resources through improved management of water in agricultural and food systems. Mr. Daugherty, founder of Valmont Industries, was deeply committed to the efficient and sustainable use of water in agriculture to feed a growing world population, a legacy the Institute continues to uphold.
As an Institute of the University of Nebraska, DWFI engages in comprehensive research, academic programs, and outreach initiatives across all University campuses. The incoming Executive Director will be responsible for providing strategic direction and oversight for the Institute's three core missions: research, education, and policy, including Extension/outreach.
The primary charge of the Executive Director will be to further solidify DWFI's position as a global leader within the international water and food communities. This will involve cultivating and nurturing local, national, and international partnerships across both public and private sectors, pursuing collaborative opportunities, demonstrating achievement of results, and ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of the Institute.
The Executive Director will lead a dedicated core leadership team, including the Director of Research, Director of Policy, Director of the Nebraska Water Center, Director of the Water, Climate and Health program, Director of Communications and Public Relations, an Associate Director, and an Assistant Director. The Institute also boasts a vibrant community of Faculty Fellows, post-doctoral fellows, and both graduate and undergraduate students. The Executive Director will report to the NU Vice President and IANR Harlan Vice Chancellor.
The University is seeking a leader with a compelling vision, profound scientific expertise, and extensive administrative experience to champion DWFI's as a global leader in water for agriculture. The ideal candidate will be a passionate advocate for the Institute, bringing innovative ideas, positive energy, and a collaborative spirit to finding solutions to the looming crisis of global food and water security. The Executive Director will embrace the importance of the Institute’s mission and its focus on high quality research with practical applications that are accessible to the world community.
The Executive Director must have outstanding credentials that bridge water and agriculture research, broad international experience and connectivity, strong fund-raising skills, and an impressive record of collaboration within and outside academia.
This is a 100% administrative appointment, based in Lincoln, Nebraska. The Executive Director will be appointed to a five-year renewable term, subject to satisfactory annual reviews and a formal reappointment process.
The University of Nebraska is committed to finding a leader who can further elevate DWFI's impact on a global scale, ensuring a sustainable future for water and food resources.
Learn more and apply » https://employment.unl.edu/postings/97029