Deadline to Apply: November 7, 2025
Organization/Company Name: California Polytechnic State University
Location: San Luis Obispo, California
Organization:
California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly), College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES).
Job Description:
The College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, invites applications for a full-time, 12-month Department Head for the Experience Industry Management Department. The position begins no later than July 31, 2026.
The Department Head provides leadership in teaching, research, and industry engagement. Responsibilities include faculty hiring and mentoring, budget and resource management, curriculum development, advancement and fundraising, and promoting an inclusive, respectful academic environment.
This tenured faculty position leads a team of 7 tenure-track faculty, 1 full-time lecturer, and 1 staff member, serving over 450 students across the Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration major and the Event Planning and Experience Management minor.
Duties include:
- Oversee departmental operations, budget, and strategic planning
- Support faculty research, teaching, and student success
- Advance industry partnerships and alumni relations
- Foster diversity, equity, and inclusion across programs
Salary Range:
- Associate Professor: $155,000 – $165,000
- Full Professor: $175,000 – $185,000
Location: San Luis Obispo, California
Qualifications:
- Ph.D. or Ed.D. in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism, Hospitality, Experience Industry Management, or related field
- Distinguished record of academic and professional achievement suitable for tenure
- Proven leadership, management, and mentoring experience
- Strong commitment to teaching excellence and scholarly activity
- Experience promoting inclusive learning environments
Preferred qualifications include budget management experience, interdisciplinary research, and industry collaboration.
About the Department:
The Experience Industry Management Department offers a B.S. in Recreation, Parks, & Tourism Administration and a minor in Event Planning and Experience Management. Accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Related Professions, the department prepares leaders in event planning, tourism, hospitality, and recreation management.
About Cal Poly CAFES:
Cal Poly’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences is among the nation’s top colleges of its kind, known for its “Learn by Doing” philosophy. With 16 majors, 5 graduate programs, and over 4,000 students, CAFES integrates hands-on learning with cutting-edge research across its 10,000 acres of farms, vineyards, and research centers.
More info: cafes.calpoly.edu
How to Apply:
Applications received by November 7, 2025 will receive full consideration.
Applicants must submit:
- Cover letter
- CV/resume
- Unofficial transcripts (highest degree)
- Statement on leadership and management philosophy
- Research goals and plans
- Universal Student Success Statement
- Three professional references
Finalists will be asked to provide recommendation letters and official transcripts.
Contact:
Keri Schwab, Ph.D., Search Committee Chair
ke******@*****ly.edu
Job Location:
San Luis Obispo, California
Application Deadline:
November 7, 2025