President and Chief Executive Officer

PRESIDENT AND CEO, SOUTH CAROLINA INDEPENDENT COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

The President & CEO of South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (SCICU) leads the organization that supports and advocates on behalf of 21 independent colleges and universities in South Carolina. SCICU’s 21 private, nonprofit institutions of higher learning enroll more than 36,000 undergraduate students each year and offer a wide variety of traditional degree programs as well as accelerated and evening programs for adults.

These colleges and universities play a significant role in helping the state achieve its economic and postsecondary education goals in three key areas: (1) Increasing choices and opportunities for postsecondary education, (2) Strengthening our state’s economy and future tax base by preparing students to compete in today’s knowledge economy on a local and global level, and (3) Creating the next generation of values-oriented leaders firmly grounded in the precept of service above self.

The President & CEO will represent and advocate for the interests of member institutions and oversee all operational aspects of the organization, including supervising staff, drafting the SCICU budget and ensuring efficient office operations. The President & CEO will oversee fundraising, and foster collaboration among member colleges and universities, stakeholders, and the broader higher education community. The President & CEO manages a board currently with 58 members, which includes the 21 campus presidents. The President & CEO represents the institutions before federal, state, and local officials and serves as primary spokesperson.

Reports to: Board of Trustees

Location: Columbia, SC

To view the full position profile, please visit SCICU CEO Profile

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

Strategic Leadership

• Communicate a clear vision and strategy for SCICU, engaging members institutions, staff members, lawmakers, and other external stakeholders in support of the SCICU mission.
• Drive initiatives that support the academic excellence, financial health, and public profile of member institutions. Pursue opportunities to expand services to meet the needs of member campuses.

Advocacy and Representation

• Represent SCICU and its member institutions at state and national levels, engaging with legislators, government agencies, and educational organizations.
• Develop and implement Legislative Action Plan and Engagement Plan in collaboration with the Board of Trustees.
• Advocate for policies and funding that benefit independent higher education in South Carolina.
• Ensure connectivity with all stakeholders by creating awareness of potential legislative issues, trends in the industry, or possible impacts on independent colleges and universities in South Carolina.

Fundraising and Development

• Oversee fundraising efforts to secure financial resources for scholarships, grants, and other programs that support member institutions.
• Cultivate relationships with donors, foundations, and corporate partners to enhance financial support for SCICU initiatives.

Operational Management

• Oversee the daily operations of SCICU, ensuring efficient and effective management of resources, staff, and programs to include monitoring SCICU’s financial position and program performance.
• Implement policies and procedures that align with the organization’s mission and strategic objectives.

Board Relations

• Collaborate with the Board of Trustees to ensure strong governance and alignment with organizational goals.
• Oversee the operation of board committees.
• Provide regular updates on SCICU activities, progress, and challenges to the Board.

Communication and Public Relations

• Serve as the primary spokesperson for SCICU, promoting the value of independent higher education through various media and public speaking engagements.
• Enhance the visibility and reputation of SCICU and its member institutions. Build brand awareness with lawmakers, current and future partners, and other stakeholders across South Carolina.

Collaboration and Partnership Building

• Foster collaboration among member institutions to share best practices and address common challenges.
• Build and maintain partnerships with other educational organizations, community groups, and business leaders to support SCICU’s mission.
• Continue to enhance member connectivity through campus affinity groups.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited higher education institution is required; a graduate or terminal degree is preferred.

Experience: Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in higher education administration, nonprofit management, or a related field.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong strategic planning and organizational development skills.
• Proven ability to advocate effectively at the state and national levels.
• Fundraising and development expertise.
• Excellent communication, public speaking, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build consensus and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets.

Personal Attributes:

• Visionary and inspirational leader with a passion for higher education.

Integrity, transparency, and a commitment to ethical leadership.

• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic and evolving environment.
• Strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.