Executive Director

Executive Director

44953

Animal and Food Sciences

Provides leadership and direction in all aspects of administering multiple university branch campuses or major satellite locations. Meets ORP eligibility requirements. Plans, develops and implements strategies for generating resources and revenues. Has budget administrative oversight of overall operations of units. Reports to Vice President or above. Directs and supervises multiple Managing Directors.

The Executive Director of the Texas Tech Equestrian Center and Equine Programs provides strategic leadership, operational oversight, financial management, and external engagement for one of the university’s most visible and mission integrated auxiliary enterprises. Reporting to the Chair of the Department of Animal and Food Sciences within Davis College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, the Executive Director leads a complex and evolving equine enterprise that supports the academic, outreach and engagement, student success, and service missions of Texas Tech University.

The Executive Director is responsible for advancing a sustainable and innovative operational model that integrates auxiliary operations with academic priorities in teaching, experiential learning, student development, outreach, research support, industry engagement, and philanthropic advancement. The position oversees operations, personnel leadership, business development, strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and program growth while ensuring the long‑term sustainability and success of the Equestrian Center. The Executive Director supervises operational staff and provides leadership oversight for personnel associated with equine related programs, auxiliary operations, and applicable coaching staff.

The Executive Director serves as the primary operational and strategic leader for the Equestrian Center and collaborates with university leadership, faculty, coaches, students, staff, donors, advisory board members, alumni, and industry stakeholders to advance the Texas Tech Equine Program and Equestrian Center Strategic Plan, 2025–2030.

The position requires a highly collaborative, entrepreneurial, and relationship‑driven leader with demonstrated expertise in equine industry operations, business and financial management, personnel leadership, strategic planning, and higher education environments.

Master’s Degree required, terminal degree preferred. Eight years progressively responsible management experience required. Education beyond the master's level may substitute for required experience on a year‑for‑year basis.

• Terminal degree (Ph.D., DVM, or related) in equine science, animal science, agribusiness, veterinary science, or a closely related field.
• Experience in higher education, academic, extension, or research environments.
• Experience managing auxiliary enterprises, revenue‑generating operations, or complex service units.
• Experience in financial management, budgeting, operational planning, and resource stewardship.
• Experience leading personnel, including supervision, performance management, and team development.
• Knowledge of equine industry operations, equine programs, or related agricultural enterprises.
• Experience supporting experiential learning, student development, competitive teams, or workforce development initiatives.
• Experience with fundraising, donor relations, sponsorship development, or capital campaigns.
• Established professional relationships within the equine industry.
• Experience supporting research activities, graduate education, or interdisciplinary programs.
• Experience overseeing facilities, events, or animal‑related operations.
• Experience collaborating with advisory boards, alumni, donors, or external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and build collaborative relationships across diverse stakeholder groups.
• Experience working within complex organizational or institutional environments.

Demonstrated commitment to professionalism, ethical leadership, and student success.