Regional Extension Director (Eastern Region)

PRINCIPAL PURPOSE OF JOB: The Regional Extension Director (Eastern) provides leadership for Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension county-based Extension staff in a comprehensive, multidisciplinary, issue-based Extension program in the assigned region. The Regional Extension Director applies a broad perspective and understanding of priority issues impacting limited resource individuals, families, and communities to recruit, train, and evaluate county Extension agents and paraprofessionals in collaboration with the area and regional directors. The Regional Extension Director serves as the primary contact person working with the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Regional Extension Directors, Area Extension Directors, District Extension Boards, and County Extension Council. The Regional Extension Director will report to the Associate Extension Administrator.

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITY: This position leads staff in the assigned region with county-assessed Extension directors to ensure the needs of limited resource populations are being addressed through programs offered by Cooperative Extension at Kentucky State University. Supervise and monitor progress and performance of county-based Extension agents in the Eastern region. Coordinates the planning, design implementation, and evaluation of county, multi-county and regional Extension programs in cooperation with county and district directors, state program leaders, and other appropriate personnel at the land-grant universities. Ensures the development of innovative, high-quality programs that reflect the needs of limited resource audiences by guiding county-based Extension agents in the programming process.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: (ex: duties that are essential to performing the job with or without an accommodation)

1. Increase the number of Extension professionals within the eastern region of Kentucky.

2. Manage and mentor county-based Extension agents in program development, implementation, and evaluation, conduct count analysis reporting,

3. Identify potential new locations for county-based staff.

4. Approve county-based Extension agents’ Plan of Work and conduct performance evaluations.

5. Identify county-based Extension agents concerning staff relationships, morale, budget, and professional development and work with the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension, KSU Extension and Research Advisory Council members, District Boards, and County Councils.

6. Routinely meet with county-based Extension agents and conduct a minimum of two county site visits annually along with virtual meetings.

7. Attend and provide updates at Extension leadership team meetings, quarterly Extension meetings, administrative and district meetings.

8. Attend and participate in various state and county stakeholder groups such as but not limited to the following: Cattlemen’s group, Ky Horticulture council, Ky Sheep Council, Ky Farm Bureau, Ky Maple producers, and County Agricultural Investment Program.

9. Attend and participate in the Middle Managers Southern Regional Meeting.

10. Provides monthly updates to the Extension Administrator.

11. Ensures that county-based Extension agents share Extension programs, journal articles, and fact sheets with stakeholders.

12. Serve on committees for the university, stakeholder groups, and professional associations.

13. Ensures county-based Extension agents’ trainings and relevant educational materials reach stakeholders in a timely manner.

14. Teach/Educate county-based Extension agents on the Kentucky Extension Reporting System (KERS).

OTHER DUTIES: (ex: tasks that may be necessary, but are not the main reason(s) the job was created)

The position will conduct other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS: Extension education, agriculture, family and consumer science, public administration, or related field. Master’s degree or doctoral degree in agriculture, business administration, Extension education, family and consumer science, public administration, or related field. Five years of experience in a related field.

o Essential experience includes: demonstrated ability in designing, implementing, evaluating, and reporting the impact of community-based, non-formal educational programs; supervision of professional and support employees; and experience working with people at all socioeconomic levels.

o Desired qualities include habits of industry, a sense of responsibility and appreciation for diversity and the worth of the individual, and a high degree of objectivity.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:

• Evidence of administrative leadership, managerial skills, and the ability to work as a team member.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of Extension program development process, evaluation, and reporting.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
• Implement Kentucky State Cooperative Extension Strategic Plan.
• Effective oral and writing skills.
• Ability to work in a team effort.
• Initiative, resourcefulness, and the ability to work independently are essential.
• Valid driver’s license.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• In-state and out-of-state travel.
• Be able to work some overtime.
• Work could involve some exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises
• Requires some standing or walking.
• Must be able to lift 10 lbs.
• Required to travel to area region.