Director, J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development

Organization: University of Georgia
Location: Athens, Georgia
Job Type: Full Time
Category: Education / Leadership Development
Required Education: Master's Degree
Experience: 5–10 Years

Application Deadline: April 3, 2026

Apply Here:
https://apptrkr.com/6956588

Position Overview

The University of Georgia (UGA) invites applications and nominations for the position of Director of the J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development.

The Fanning Institute is part of the UGA Division of Public Service and Outreach (PSO), which works to strengthen communities across Georgia by developing leaders, creating jobs, and solving statewide challenges.

The institute provides leadership development, training, and education programs that serve adult, youth, and nonprofit audiences across the state.

The Director provides overall leadership and management of the institute, including oversight of administrative, budgetary, and program operations. The position reports directly to the Vice President for Public Service and Outreach and serves as a member of PSO’s senior leadership team.

This is an administrative, non-tenure track faculty appointment at the level of Senior Public Service Associate and is based on UGA’s main campus in Athens, Georgia.

Learn more about the institute:
https://www.fanning.uga.edu

Key Responsibilities

The Director will:

• Provide strategic leadership for the J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development

• Guide the institute’s mission of strengthening communities through leadership development

• Lead a team of 12 interdisciplinary faculty, 13 administrative staff, and student assistants

• Oversee the development, delivery, and evaluation of leadership programs for community, youth, and nonprofit audiences

• Develop and implement the institute’s long-term strategic plan

• Manage and monitor a $10.3 million annual operating budget

• Oversee hiring decisions and personnel management

• Expand the institute’s reach to new audiences across Georgia

• Update programs and curriculum to address evolving community needs

• Lead fundraising efforts and attract philanthropic support

• Develop grants to support community initiatives

• Maintain strong relationships with community partners including:

  • Chambers of commerce

  • Nonprofit organizations

  • Utility companies

  • Community organizations

• Represent the institute within UGA and collaborate with university leadership

• Work with the Fanning Institute Advisory Board

• Partner with faculty across UGA’s schools and colleges

• Serve on university and statewide committees

Required Qualifications

• Master’s Degree

Preferred Education & Experience

• Terminal degree

• Executive-level leadership experience managing large teams and complex budgets

• Experience evaluating programs using data and performance metrics

• Record of applied research and scholarly work

• Demonstrated fundraising success

Preferred Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Deep understanding of community leadership development

• Strong background in leadership, community, or organizational development

• Knowledge of the land-grant and sea-grant mission of public universities

• Commitment to excellence, integrity, and community service

About the University of Georgia

Founded in 1785, the University of Georgia is the state's oldest and most comprehensive institution of higher education.

Key facts:

• Ranked among the Top 20 public universities by U.S. News & World Report

• 43,000+ students enrolled

• 20 schools and colleges

• Approximately 3,300 faculty and 7,700 staff

• Main campus in Athens, with additional campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton

UGA is nationally recognized for academic excellence, public service, and community impact.

Learn more:
https://www.uga.edu
https://www.outreach.uga.edu

Application Information

Applicant screening will begin immediately.

Candidates are encouraged to submit materials by Sunday, April 26, 2026, though review will continue until the position is filled.

Application materials should include:

• Cover letter outlining qualifications and experience

• Current resume

• Contact information for three professional references

All applicants must apply online:

https://apptrkr.com/6956588

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, disability, religion, sex, national origin, genetic information, veteran status, or other protected status.