Executive Director, BEST Center of Eastern NC

• Master’s degree in a Life Science or Engineering field from a regionally accredited institution.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex projects and teams in a technical or academic environment.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.

• Doctorate in a Life Science or Engineering field from a regionally accredited institution.
• Teaching experience at a community college or university.
• Experience working in a GMP-regulated environment.
• Prior management experience in an academic or industry setting.

Wilson Community College is seeking an innovative and mission-driven leader to serve as Executive Director of the Biomanufacturing Education and Skills Training (BEST) Center of Eastern NC, located at The Campus at 587 in Wilson, NC. The Executive Director will lead the development, delivery, and expansion of academic and customized training programs that support workforce development in the life sciences sector across the region. This position plays a critical role in advancing the College’s strategic priorities, fostering industry partnerships, and ensuring high-quality instruction and operational excellence.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the launch and ongoing operations of the BEST Center, including academic programming, customized training, industry engagement, and marketing.
• Oversee the development and delivery of curricula focused on large-scale bioprocessing, cGMP practices, and related life sciences topics using lecture, hands-on, and online modalities.
• Manage staff responsible for facility operations, instructional support, and equipment maintenance.
• Represent the BEST Center in internal and external settings, including industry, government, academic institutions, and community organizations.
• Cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships with life sciences companies, workforce boards, and regional stakeholders.
• Lead efforts to secure external funding through grants, gifts, and sponsorships to support program growth and sustainability.
• Monitor and manage budgets, including state allocations and external funding sources.
• Schedule and facilitate Advisory Board meetings and implement approved initiatives.
• Supervise proposal development, staff recruitment, and administrative processes.
• Provide instruction through lectures and lab facilitation as needed.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the BEST Center and Wilson Community College leadership.
• Engage with the North Carolina Community College System and other statewide organizations to promote collaboration and innovation.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, and deliver programs, services, and initiatives that meet or exceed goals for safety, quality, schedule, and cost.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to engage effectively with community college students, industry trainees, and external partners from academia and industry.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and professionally.
• Proven capacity to work independently and collaboratively within cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in using digital technologies and tools to enhance operational efficiency and instructional delivery.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Familiarity with basic laboratory instruments and/or biomanufacturing equipment.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols and biosafety practices relevant to life sciences and GMP-regulated environments.

College-wide Expectations

WCC places a high value on creating an engaged, collaborative campus environment; therefore, employees are required to complete their work hours in person on WCC’s campus.  By working on campus and in person, employees have greater opportunities to engage with students and co-workers, attend on-site meetings and presentations, recruit students, and support local business and industry partners.

• Communicates clearly and frequently to ensure consistency of purpose and vision.
• Works collaboratively across departments and with external partners.
• Supports the College’s mission, vision, and values.
• Remains current on emerging trends in higher education and workforce development.
• Fosters a professional environment grounded in transparency, trust, and student-centered values.
• Maintains a strong focus on instructional rigor, student belonging, and career readiness.

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