Jobs at Member Institutions & APLU

Executive Director

Jeffrey S. Raikes School of Computer Science and Management

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

The Jeffrey S. Raikes School of Computer Science and Management accepted its largest cohort of students in fall 2025, and demand for its graduates is growing. The University of Nebraska–Lincoln seeks to expand the school to serve the growing interest of students and bolster the next generation of technology-driven industry leaders, especially in the state of Nebraska. To support these efforts, the University seeks applications and nominations for highly qualified individuals to be the school’s next Executive Director.

Position Summary
The Executive Director reports directly to the Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and is the chief administrative officer of the Raikes School. The Executive Director is responsible for leading the Raikes School in the formulation and execution of strategic plans aimed at enhancing quality, reputation and impact, and fostering growth. The Executive Director is tasked with cultivating and reinforcing relationships both within the University and externally, seeking collaborative opportunities, securing financial support, and advancing the efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability of the school. Additionally, the Executive Director is responsible for ensuring the provision and cultivation of an exceptional cutting-edge curriculum, faculty, and staff to educate and support students. The Executive Director is also responsible for attracting, recruiting and retaining, and ensuring the success of outstanding students from around the globe. The Executive Director strives to elevate the Raikes School reputation within the field and collaborates closely with campus partners and the Raikes School Corporate Advisory Board.

Providing leadership for the Raikes School requires an Executive Director with innovative thinking, entrepreneurial instincts, an open-minded approach, and the ability to engage with various constituents to foster effective collaborative partnerships.

The successful candidate must have:

• A passion for and deep understanding of innovation, technology, and business.
• Evidence of a commitment to excellence in undergraduate education, research, and mentorship.
• Proven effective collaboration with a broad range of constituents at both the university and external levels.
• Evidence of visionary and creative thinking.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills with evidence of inclusive strategic planning, resource development and financial planning.
• Track record of scaling an organization, teams, or operations.
• An advanced or terminal degree and/or outstanding record of experience in industry, with professional, scholarly, or research accomplishments commensurate with the rank of full professor or full professor of practice.

The highly qualified candidate will also have these preferred qualifications:

• Evidence of effective development and successful fundraising activities.
• Proven willingness and success in maintaining high visibility and connection with program alumni.
• Success in creating unique experiences for students, such as internships.
• Demonstrable experience recruiting and developing distinct and outstanding faculty, staff, and students.

A confidential review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position has been filled. For full consideration, individuals are encouraged to apply by March 9, 2026. Submit a CV or resume and a cover letter that addresses your reasons for interest and related qualifications/experience. Applications will be reviewed as they are submitted.

To Apply Online:  https://theapplicantmanager.com/jobs?pos=su495

For questions, nominations or recommendations:
Chris Shade, MPA – Senior Consultant, Summit Search Solutions, Inc. 440-655-2285; cshade@summitsearchsolutions.com.

Dick Merriman, PhD – Senior Consultant, Summit Search Solutions, Inc. 330-933-4809; dmerriman@summitsearchsolutions.com.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln seeks to attract and retain a high performing and collaborative workforce. UNL is committed to providing a work environment and culture that fosters personal and professional success where every person and every interaction matters. The University is proud to be one of Nebraska’s preferred and largest employers where individuals are able to participate and contribute to their full potential.

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination.