The County Extension Director is to provide leadership, management and educational programming consistent with the objectives of the Mills County Extension Council and in harmony with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach (ISUEO). The Director interfaces, regularly communicates and cooperates with the Council and the Regional Director (RD) to coordinate external and internal work, implement Council, local, and institutional goals and fully access and conduct research-based, educational programming to address the identified needs of Mills County citizens and improve quality of life. The Director works closely with the Mills County Extension staff and maintains a working knowledge of those duties with an ability to perform the functions in the event of an absence or increased workload; builds partnerships within the community and promotes a positive, professional image of the Mills County Extension both internally and externally.
- Actively seeks out needs in the county, informing the Council, Region Director and specialists of those opportunities, and then developing and carrying out appropriate responses to meet needs.
- Coordinates and executes long-range Mills County Extension program plans in concert with the Council by actively responding to Iowa State University Extension and Outreach program developments and changes, adopting strategies to remain progressive and attentive to the needs of Mills County while striving to offer programs to underserved audiences in the county.
- Conducts research-based educational programming in assigned Extension program areas, equally throughout the county avoiding partiality to specific clubs or school districts, with the ability to proactively adapt to changing education programming demands to meet the emerging client and organizational needs in any Extension program area and signature programs.
- Develops volunteer networks and support strategies required to sustain programs.
- Evaluates and reports the impact of programs.
- Monitor and maintains the Mills County website, keeping information current and Mills County information prioritized
- Provides leadership by developing positive working relationships with local leaders, elected officials, advisory groups, volunteers, staff and funding sources to strengthen both understanding and support for Iowa State University Extension and Outreach programs and services
- Coordinates public relations activities with the media, government agencies/officials and appropriate civic groups to develop a positive image of Extension in Mills County in coordination with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Advancement Specialist
- Supervises county staff under Council direction, provides supervision of office coverage, training as needed, encourages professional development, ensures a harmonious office environment; reviews staff time sheets, travel/expense forms, leave requests, in-state and out of state travel requests; and, performs annual employee evaluations with Council Personnel Committee assisted by Region Director
- Acts as a liaison between county staff and the Council by communicating and coordinating operational and organizational information, keeping all parties informed of current events and activities and does so in part by assisting the Council Chair in the development of agendas for the regular Council meetings, with additional input from the Region Director as needed for legal, financial and campus updates
- Monitors Mills County Extension financial systems in coordination with the Region Director and bookkeeper by exercising control of budget expenditures, maintaining accurate financial r3ecords of accounts, seeking alternative funding sources and submitting the appropriate financial reports to the Council, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and partnering organizations/agencies
- Work experience in education, agriculture, natural resources, community development, family and consumer science, business, human resources or related field to Extension subject matter
- Outstanding written, oral and customer relations communication skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Word, MS Excel, Internet and E-mail applications
- Access to reliable transportation, valid driver license and access to a motor vehicle
- Be approved through the Child Protection and Safety Program/background screening
- Previous management experience
- Ability to work flexible hours (Evening and weekend hours may be required)
- Ability to multi-task and prioritize various work tasks
- Bachelor’s degree in one of the following areas: education, agriculture, natural resources, community development, family and consumer science, business, human resources or related field to Extension subject matter
- Previous Extension experience or knowledge of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach purpose
- Evidence of both being a volunteer and managing volunteers
- Experience supervising staff and performing human resource functions
- Experience in Public Relations
- Experience in formal and/or non-formal teaching
- Knowledge and skills in community development and economic development work
- Experience in developing social marketing delivery channels
Interested applicants are asked to submit the completed Mill County Application, current resume, three professional references, and cover letter detailing interest and qualifications for this position to Julie Hering Kent - PO Box 430, Malvern, IA 51551 or by email to jkent@iastate.edu. Guaranteed consideration date for applications is May 21, 2023. This position will remain open until filled.
Benefits include competitive wage, paid sick leave, holidays, and vacation, IPERS (Iowa Public Employee’s Retirement System), and Employee Assistance Program. Partial insurance premium available toward ISU plan.