The University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) is searching for an Executive Director of Health Administration that embodies a rare combination of strategic vision, deep industry connectivity, and a student-centered mindset. This leader will be a forward-thinking strategist, capable of crafting and executing a bold plan to elevate the program’s national profile through innovation, growth, and the establishment of a named center. Equally important is their ability to build and leverage strong networks—within the healthcare industry, among alumni, and across academic and philanthropic communities—to secure resources and opportunities that benefit students and the program. Above all, the Executive Director must be passionately committed to student success, serving as a mentor, advocate, and architect of transformative educational experiences that prepare graduates to lead in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.
CU Denver Business School is a hub of innovation and excellence, located in the heart of one of the nation’s most dynamic urban centers. The Health Administration MBA program, with roots dating back to the 1960s, is distinguished by its integration of business and healthcare expertise. In 1984, CU Denver launched the Executive MBA in Health Administration in collaboration with four other U.S. universities, initially funded by a major Kellogg Foundation grant. Now solely operated by CU Denver, it remains the most prestigious CAHME-accredited executive health administration program in the region. Supported by the Health Administration Research Consortium and a dynamic advisory board of healthcare leaders, the program offers a transformative education focused on strategic leadership, policy, innovation, and operational excellence, preparing graduates to lead across the healthcare continuum.
CU Denver stands as Colorado’s most diverse research university and a nationally recognized equity-serving institution, enrolling over 14,500 students across seven schools and colleges. With designations as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI), CU Denver is deeply committed to inclusive excellence, innovation, and community impact. Located in downtown Denver, the university offers unmatched access to industry, government, and nonprofit sectors, serving as a living laboratory for applied learning and research. Guided by a bold strategic vision to become the nation’s first equity-serving institution and a university for life, CU Denver supports learners at every stage of their journey. With an $800 million annual economic impact and a faculty known for scholarly excellence and civic engagement, CU Denver is a powerful engine for innovation and social mobility.
The Executive Director of Health Administration will serve as the strategic and operational leader of one of CU Denver’s most impactful academic offerings. This role calls for a visionary and entrepreneurial leader who can elevate the program to national prominence through academic innovation, industry engagement, and philanthropic growth. The Executive Director will be responsible for articulating and executing a compelling vision for the program, fostering a culture of excellence, and ensuring alignment with the Business School’s mission and the university’s strategic priorities.
Key responsibilities include leading curriculum innovation, managing accreditation processes (CAHME and AACSB), cultivating industry partnerships, and developing a new Center for Health Administration. The Executive Director will also play a central role in student recruitment, alumni engagement, and fundraising, working closely with the Business School’s development team and advisory board. With a strong network in the healthcare industry and a passion for student success, the Executive Director will shape the future of health administration education at CU Denver—preparing graduates to lead with integrity, insight, and impact.
The successful candidate will possess a master’s degree (required), with a terminal degree preferred, and bring a minimum of 10 years of experience in the healthcare industry, including at least 5 years in a significant leadership role. They will demonstrate a proven ability to build and maintain relationships with alumni, healthcare organizations, and donors, with experience in fundraising and managing advisory boards. Additionally, the candidate should be adept at developing and executing a compelling vision and strategy, motivating teams, and leading curriculum innovation and program development. A strong track record of cultivating and leveraging relationships with healthcare leaders, associations, and external stakeholders to support student success and drive program growth is also essential.
Compensation and Benefits Information
The salary range (or the hiring range) for this position has been established at $145,000 to $168,000 and will be commensurate with skills and experience.
Benefits: The University of Colorado offers a full benefits package. Information on university benefits programs, including eligibility, is available at https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/benefits.
Please direct all applications, inquiries, and nominations to Christy Pratt and Natalie Song by clicking the buttons below or via email, at: [email protected].
University of Colorado Denver is committed to recruiting and supporting a diverse student body, faculty and administrative staff. The university strives to promote a culture of inclusiveness, respect, communication and understanding. We encourage applications from women, ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities and all veterans. The University of Colorado is committed to diversity and equality in education and employment.
Commitment to Job Application Fairness: Applicants are not required to provide age or age-related information and may redact information related to age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution from any submissions during the initial application process.