Department Chair, Physical Therapy Program

Des Moines University, in partnership with the national search firm Scott Healy & Associates, invites applications and nominations for the position of Department Chair, Physical Therapy Program. Reporting to the College of Health Sciences Dean, the Department Chair (aka: Program Director) is responsible for executing functions related to the administrative, educational, research, clinical, and accreditation functions of the Department. The Chair represents the department within the College and University organizational structure.

The Chair must demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence, education and research, and student success. They must have an entrepreneurial leadership philosophy and evidence of the ability to guide the change necessary for a health sciences university to thrive and succeed in current and future markets. This requires a Chair who brings a strong understanding of and commitment to DMU's mission and a deep understanding of the current circumstances facing higher education, specifically a firm understanding of emerging needs and trends in health sciences graduate education to align in advancing strategic college and university priorities. Additionally, the Chair will have the personal characteristics and values needed to promote, foster, and facilitate the trust of colleagues and the broader university.

The Chair manages all faculty, including full-time, part-time, adjunct, emeritus, volunteer, and guest faculty, and provides leadership for the department in supporting curriculum instruction and scholarly activity, including research, publications, and funding. The Chair also manages non-faculty positions assigned to the Department, including leadership of the PT clinic's 2 locations.

The Chair is responsible for obtaining and maintaining the accreditation of programs sponsored by the department, and for supporting accreditation and evaluation processes within the College and the University. The Chair assigns the departmental faculty's FTE distribution in the areas of teaching, research, service, administrative roles, and clinical service, as applicable.

The Chair is responsible for managing the distribution of the faculty FTE within the Department to meet the educational needs of the Department, College, and University, in curriculum delivery. The Chair manages the allocation of faculty time and departmental budget in the best manner to ensure the educational and financial strength of the Department. Strong fiscal and budgetary skills are required.

Responsibilities:

• Development of departmental vision and mission statements, developing and implementing short-range and long-range departmental goals consistent with the University strategic plan and directives from the Dean, preparing the department for accreditation and evaluation, and facilitating training in accordance with accreditation standards of accrediting and professional organizations.
• Provision of day-to-day direction of the department by scheduling and conducting departmental meetings, establishing departmental committees as needed, and ensuring student instruction, advising and assessment are provided.
• Communication between the department and the College Dean (and other Administrative Heads as appropriate) regarding needs of the department and its faculty. The chairperson will also be responsible for keeping the department faculty informed of University regulations, plans, and activities as appropriate.
• Development and administration of the departmental budget and maintenance of departmental financial records.
• Participation in space planning, coordinated between the program, dean, and facilities among other interprofessional colleagues.

Qualifications:

• Earned academic doctorate from an accredited university in a relevant field.
• Active, unrestricted physical therapy license in any United States jurisdiction; Iowa physical therapy license (or eligibility).
• Academic rank as a senior faculty, at the level of Associate or Full Professor.
• Minimum of 6 years full-time higher education appointment.
• Minimum of 3 years of full-time experience as a core faculty member in a CAPTE accredited entry-level physical therapy education program; 5 years of faculty experience is preferred.
• Minimum 8 years of documented experience in the field of physical therapy.
• Experience in administration at the department level is preferred.
• Demonstrated accomplishments in research, and a desire to develop a credible research program within the department.
• Ability to effectively mentor subordinate faculty within the department.
• Professional development and/or education in all of the following: educational theory and methodology, instructional design, student evaluation, and outcome assessment.

• Familiarity with CAPTE accreditation requirements and has experience with other accreditation and/or regulatory agencies.

About Des Moines University:

Des Moines University is a premier medical and health sciences institution comprising three colleges-College of Osteopathic Medicine, College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, and College of Health Sciences-offering ten graduate degree programs. The programs share a collective strength-a collaborative campus community where students and faculty come together in the pursuit of knowledge and innovation.

Founded in 1898, Des Moines University has built a strong reputation in medicine and health sciences fields, developed by the commitment of our faculty who are passionate about training tomorrow's leaders with unmatched dedication and uncompromised intention. Our graduates enter the profession with confidence, compassion, and the determination to improve the lives of others on a daily basis.

The following values of Des Moines University are upheld by all staff, faculty, and students:

• Accountability
• Collaboration
• Honesty
• Inclusiveness
• Wellness

In 2023 Des Moines University (DMU) relocated to a new 88-acre campus in West Des Moines, Iowa. This state-of-the-art campus includes technology-rich, flexible education spaces that support innovative teaching methods and connect faculty and students across all of our programs. Our new research facilities include a vibrant and spacious open laboratory, designed to foster collaboration and innovation.

About the College of Health Sciences:

The College of Health Sciences is dedicated to equipping the next generation of healthcare professionals with the tools and techniques to address the challenges facing people all around the world. With programs for health care administration, physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant studies, public health, and more, the College offers a world of possibilities for its students. The mission of the College is to advance the health and wellbeing of society by cultivating exemplary health professionals and leaders through innovative, evidence-based and interprofessional education. We value health promotion, life-long learning, and the transfer of evidence-based research into practice.

The College offers:

• State of the art facilities and technology
• Learning from experts
• Health Profession focus
• Experiential learning networks

About the Community:

Des Moines, Iowa, nestled along the banks of the Des Moines River, is the fastest-growing city in the Midwest. Des Moines boasts a diverse and thriving economy, serving as a hub for finance, insurance, and technology industries. This economic vitality creates abundant opportunities for career growth and entrepreneurship, attracting professionals from across the country. Culturally, Des Moines offers an impressive array of arts, entertainment, and culinary experiences. From world-class museums and theaters to a vibrant live music scene and innovative restaurants, there's always something new and exciting to explore. With the #2 ranked farmers' market in the country, and a trail network that stretches 800 miles, Des Moines offers a dynamic blend of entertainment, culture, and outdoor adventure for all to enjoy.

Application and Nomination Process:

All correspondence relating to the position of Department Chair, Physical Therapy Program at Des Moines University should be directed in confidence to the University's executive search consultant:

Christopher Healy, President

Scott Healy & Associates

chris@scotthealy.com

A complete application should include the following:

1. Cover Letter outlining your interest and qualifications for the position;
2. Updated CV;
3. Three (3) professional references with contact information, title, institutional affiliation, email address and direct phone numbers. (No references will be contacted without written permission from the candidate.)

Applications received by July 1, 2024 will receive priority consideration. The search will remain open until the position is filled.

Des Moines University is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, ethnicity, creed, religion, age, disability, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, veteran status, genetic information and other characteristics protected by law ("protected class"). Applications from candidates from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.