Sustainable Natural Ecosystems SI leader position opens for applications

UC ANR academics are invited to apply for the Sustainable Natural Ecosystems Strategic Initiative leader position. The position plays a key role in helping us connect by unifying, communicating and advocating to strengthen UC ANR's research and outreach agenda and as a participant in Program Council. 

Given the evolving role of the UC ANR Strategic Initiatives (SI), we will again conduct an open search from across the breadth of expertise in the division.

“The SI leader position for Sustainable Natural Ecosystems is becoming available as our current leader David Lile is scheduled to rotate off at the end of 2020,” said Mark Bell, vice provost of Strategic Initiatives and Statewide Programs. “David has been a valued team member and contributor and has helped the SIs significantly evolve in their role.” 

Who can apply? The positions are open to all UC ANR academics, including Agricultural Experiment Station faculty and Cooperative Extension advisors and specialists as well as academic coordinators and administrators. Strategic Initiative leaders are appointed by the Associate Vice President on a rotating basis for three years, with the possibility of extension. 

Current SI leaders 

• Endemic and Invasive Pests and Diseases: Jim Farrar 
• Sustainable Food Systems: Deanne Meyer
• Sustainable Natural Ecosystems: David Lile (through 12/31/20)
• Water Quality, Quantity and Security: David Lewis 
• Healthy Families and Communities: Lynn Schmitt-McQuitty

Role of the SIs. The SIs help us make connections. They lead efforts to Unify, Communicate and Advocate for what we do. See UC ANR Strategic Initiatives for more information. SI leaders are increasingly leading discussions on critical topics important to the future of UC ANR – both the focus of our work and how we implement our work. They are also decision-making members of Program Council. 

How to apply. To apply for the SI leader position, complete the form at https://ucanr.edu/survey/survey.cfm?surveynumber=32332.

Applications will be accepted until Nov. 20.

Applicants will be contacted for interviews in late November or early December.The target date for Zoom interviews is Monday, Dec. 14 (morning). The new leader is anticipated to start Jan. 4, 2021.

For information regarding the roles and responsibilities of the Strategic Initiative leader position, see the Terms of Reference for Strategic Initiative Leaders. If you have questions, contact Mark Bell or one of the SI leaders.

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