Academic Director, Cybersecurity Program (0378U) – School of Information

About Berkeley

At the University of California, Berkeley, we are committed to creating a community that fosters equity of experience and opportunity, and ensures that students, faculty, and staff of all backgrounds feel safe, welcome and included. Our culture of openness, freedom and belonging make it a special place for students, faculty and staff.

The University of California, Berkeley, is one of the world’s leading institutions of higher education, distinguished by its combination of internationally recognized academic and research excellence; the transformative opportunity it provides to a large and diverse student body; its public mission and commitment to equity and social justice; and its roots in the California experience, animated by such values as innovation, questioning the status quo, and respect for the environment and nature. Since its founding in 1868, Berkeley has fueled a perpetual renaissance, generating unparalleled intellectual, economic and social value in California, the United States and the world.

We are looking for equity-minded applicants who represent the full diversity of California and who demonstrate a sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds present in our community. When you join the team at Berkeley, you can expect to be part of an inclusive, innovative and equity-focused community that approaches higher education as a matter of social justice that requires broad collaboration among faculty, staff, students and community partners. In deciding whether to apply for a position at Berkeley, you are strongly encouraged to consider whether your values align with our Guiding Values and Principles, our Principles of Community, and our Strategic Plan.

At UC Berkeley, we believe that learning is a fundamental part of working, and our goal is for everyone on the Berkeley campus to feel supported and equipped to realize their full potential. We actively support this by providing all of our staff employees with at least 80 hours (10 days) of paid time per year to engage in professional development activities. To find out more about how you can grow your career at UC Berkeley, visit grow.berkeley.edu.

Departmental Overview

The School of Information (I School) advances knowledge and practice everywhere humans interact with digital technologies. Through interdisciplinary research and teaching we are committed to expanding access to information and to improving its usability, reliability, and credibility while preserving security and privacy. Our faculty conduct research in human-computer interaction (HCI), security and privacy, applied data science, and technology in developing regions.

We currently offer three professional master’s degrees and an academic doctoral degree. Our Master of Information Management and Systems (MIMS) program trains students for careers as information professionals and emphasizes project based learning. Our Master of Information and Data Science (MIDS) program is an online degree designed for working professionals with career goals in the emerging field of data science. Our Master of Information and Cybersecurity (MICS), also offered online, offers a holistic approach to cybersecurity and prepares students for professional careers in cybersecurity. Our Ph.D. program equips scholars to develop solutions and shape policies that influence how people seek, use, and share information.

This position involves managing a significant, independent academic program. Formulates program strategies and goals. Plans, directs, and controls program budget and other related resources.

Application Review Date

The First Review Date for this job is: October 21, 2024 – Open Until Filled

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and strategic direction for the MICS program, ensuring alignment with academic and industry standards while delivering a high-quality student experience.
• Lead and manage key program projects such as faculty recruitment, student engagement events, and operational improvements, ensuring timely completion within scope and budget.
• Oversee program logistics, including course scheduling, faculty assignments, and operations, ensuring efficiency and alignment with institutional goals.
• Oversee instructor recruitment, onboarding, and development, providing mentorship and support to ensure faculty contributions meet program needs.
• Build and maintain strong industry relationships through active participation in conferences, networking events, and professional engagements to keep the program relevant and visible.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to align project goals with broader institutional objectives, documenting and communicating project outcomes effectively.
• Foster a strong sense of community by engaging with students and alumni through regular events and personal connections, ensuring their academic and professional success.
• Promote diversity and inclusion in faculty and student recruitment, creating an environment that values diverse perspectives and prepares students for evolving industry challenges.
• Participates in professional development activities.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or at least 15+ years of relevant experience managing academic programs or in a related leadership role within higher education.
• Program and Project Management Expertise: Demonstrated experience managing academic programs and overseeing complex projects. Proven ability to develop project plans, set timelines, manage resources, and meet deliverables within budget and on time—familiarity with higher education student affairs or academic administration.
• Leadership and Management: Proven track record of managing and leading teams, particularly in higher education or similar environments. Experience in effectively managing and coordinating the efforts of diverse and highly skilled professionals.
• Interpersonal and Communication Skills: Exceptional ability to build relationships and communicate effectively with faculty, students, alumni, and external stakeholders.
• Flexibility and Enthusiasm: Willingness to participate in events outside of regular work hours to engage with students and foster a strong program community.
• Commitment to Diversity: A demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, both in faculty hiring and student engagement. Ability to promote a welcoming environment for people from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong project management experience, including a track record of successfully leading initiatives from inception to completion.

Preferred Qualifications

• Graduate degree in a cybersecurity-related field.
• Experience managing a graduate-level program.

Salary & Benefits

For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, please visit the University of California’s Compensation & Benefits website.

Under California law, the University of California, Berkeley is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and should not offer a salary outside of the range posted in this job announcement. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, analysis of internal equity, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience. 

The budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $109,200 to $158,500 yearly ($9,100.00 to $13,208.34 monthly), not to exceed $207,800 yearly ($17,316.67 monthly). This is a 100% FTE career position eligible for full benefits. This position is FLSA Exempt and paid monthly.

Conviction History Background

This is a designated position requiring fingerprinting and a background check due to the nature of the job responsibilities. Berkeley does hire people with conviction histories and reviews information received in the context of the job responsibilities. The University reserves the right to make employment contingent upon successful completion of the background check.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. For more information about your rights as an applicant, please see the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission poster.

The University of California’s Affirmative action policy.

The University of California’s Anti-Discrimination policy.

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