Chair of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
University of Kentucky College of Medicine
Lexington, KY - United States
Lexington, Kentucky – The University of Kentucky (UK) College of Medicine invites nominations, inquiries, and applications for the position of Chair to lead the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences. This is a fantastic opportunity to expand ophthalmology and vision care as part of a rapidly growing health system and to substantially build upon a strong academic foundation and increase research activities in the department.
The department is comprised of approximately 30 faculty members, 6 fellows, 16 residents, and over 113 clinical staff members. Ophthalmology and visual sciences have a strong presence that continues to grow at UK HealthCare, a nationally recognized health care system dedicated to patient-focused care. University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital remains the No. 1 hospital in Kentucky and the Bluegrass Region, according to U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals Rankings. The department also continues to expand regionally by providing services in satellite clinics.
The College of Medicine is one of six health-related colleges at the University (Dentistry, Health Sciences, Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Public Health), encompassing a combined 25 basic science and clinical departments and more than 1,300 faculty members. In recent years, the college has expanded its educational efforts, adding two new regional campuses in Bowling Green and Northern Kentucky, and it continues to advance its research funding.
Reporting to the Dean of the UK College of Medicine, the Chair has responsibility for all faculty, learners, and staff in the department. The predominant criteria for appointment include the proven ability to deliver excellent patient care while training future leaders in ophthalmology. The Chair will be directly involved with strategic planning and service and market development. Shaping future growth and recruitment to accomplish department goals will be integral. The next Chair will be a nationally prominent, visionary leader and role model with an established record of excellence in clinical care and education, research, and mentorship in ophthalmology. Exceptional accomplishments as a clinician and academician are a must as the Chair’s duties will include a clinical practice as well as ongoing academic activities.
The successful candidate should demonstrate strong leadership skills as a listener, decision-maker, humanist, and effective advocate for the department and its faculty, staff, and learners. The next Chair should have experience developing collaborative initiatives and the personal characteristics needed to promote, foster, and facilitate the trust of colleagues and the broader University faculty. They should also demonstrate impeccable integrity and be an effective communicator. Prior extensive administrative experience as a department chair, division chief, or program director is preferred.
Professional experience and qualifications include:
- MD, DO, MD/PhD, or equivalent
- National recognition as demonstrated through involvement in academic and professional societies
- Demonstrated leadership in administrative positions in a medical school or an academic medical center setting
- Proven record of recruitment and retention of talent
- Board certification in ophthalmology
- Eligible for medical licensure in Kentucky
The College of Medicine seeks qualified applicants who value its missions and share its commitment to creating an environment in which diversity is valued, inclusion is imperative, and belonging is foundational. As an Equal Opportunity Action Employer, we strive to foster a community in which individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and perspectives can feel secure and welcome.
Please direct all confidential inquiries, nominations, and applications (including a letter of interest and CV) to Jeff Schroetlin and Jillian Williams, at [email protected]. Candidates will also need to apply through the employment website at the University of Kentucky. The posting can be found by searching for requisition # FE03797, or via the quick link: https://ukjobs.uky.edu/postings/495468.