USM Launches National Search for Coastal Operations Leader
Fri, 10/16/2020 - 11:59am | By: Margaret Ann Macloud
The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) has launched a national search for a
new position that will lead its Coastal Operations. The search for the position of
Senior Associate Vice President for Coastal Operations (SAVPCO) comes as USM announces a restructuring of its Coastal Operations that has been built on the vision to become a national leader in addressing issues
relevant to people in coastal and maritime settings. This work is anchored in three
foundational pillars: understanding the ocean and coasts; improving coastal resilience;
and supporting the Blue Economy.
The SAVPCO will serve as the lead administrative officer for USM’s Coastal Operations and will serve as part of the University’s senior leadership team to ensure strong communication within the institution and across all coastal areas. The SAVPCO will be based at the Gulf Park campus in Long Beach and will be responsible for overall planning, coordination, and implementation of USM’s Coastal Operations and initiatives, including a wide range of activities, programs and services that enhance the quality of student life. This position will serve as the lead strategist, relationship builder and public spokesperson for coastal initiatives and will manage all operations that fall outside of academic or research areas, including physical plant operations and non-academic budgeting.
“I could not be more excited about our work to advance our Coast-based programs into a future that not only rises to meet the specific needs of coastal business and industry, but that also provides us with a sustainable model in our existing resource realities,” University President Rodney D. Bennett said. “I truly believe that we are only limited by our own imagination and creativity, and I cannot wait to see where this new horizon takes us, as we continue to expand and enhance our impact on the Coast for years to come.”
More information about the position of Senior Associate Vice President for Coastal Operations can be found here and information on the plans for USM’s coastal presence can be found here.