Position Title:

Executive Director Iowa Crop Improvement Association

Job Group:

Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree and 8 years of related experience

Job Description:

The Iowa Crop Improvement Association (ICIA), established by Iowa Code Chapter 177, serves as the official seed certifying agency for the state of Iowa. As a nonprofit organization governed by a Board of Directors, ICIA is dedicated to ensuring seed and planting stock quality assurance while advancing education and leadership in crop improvement.

ICIA is seeking an Executive Director to lead the organization’s strategic direction, operational performance, and program delivery in support of its mission and continued success. The Executive Director provides visionary, strategic, and operational leadership. This role is responsible for ensuring the long‑term sustainability, relevance, and effectiveness of ICIA by aligning programs, finances, governance, and partnerships with the organization’s mission, stakeholder needs, and applicable regulatory frameworks, and support innovation in agriculture. The Executive Director serves as the primary liaison to the ICIA Board of Directors, Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (ISU CALS), regulatory bodies, and regional and national partners.

Key Responsibilities

Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for ICIA, working closely with the Board of Directors and Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences to guide priorities, governance, and program execution
Represent ICIA and build partnerships with industry, government, and national organizations while maintaining strong collaboration with ISU researchers and stakeholders
Provide executive oversight of seed certification programs and Iowa Crop Performance Tests, including trial design, field operations, data quality, compliance, and reporting
Direct operational systems, facilities, and technology to ensure efficient execution of testing, planting, data collection, and quality assurance processes
Ensure compliance with regulatory, safety, and organizational standards while advancing continuous improvement efforts
Manage financial operations including budgeting, contracts, billing, audits, and long-term planning in coordination with the Board
Lead and supervise staff, including hiring, development, performance management, and fostering a collaborative, high-performing culture

We are seeking a candidate with at least eight years of related experience who brings a balance of technical expertise and strategic leadership. Ideal candidates will have experience in managing field trials, agricultural research, or seed certification, along with a track record of leading teams or programs. This role requires the ability to set vision, lead collaboratively, and delegate effectively, while remaining connected to day-to-day operations as a working leader. Experience in the seed or agricultural industry is vital, particularly for those recognized as leaders who can build partnerships, develop talent, and strengthen the workforce.

This is a unique opportunity to lead a well-established, high-performing organization respected across Iowa and nationally. The successful candidate will build on a strong foundation of systems, resources, and partnerships while providing leadership at the state and national levels. In this role, you will collaborate closely with Iowa State University and a broad network of stakeholders to advance crop improvement and support innovation in agriculture.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

This position is at-will and serves at the pleasure of university administration and is exempt from certain P&S policies.

This candidate will be hired as Director, Research Administration.

Preferred Qualifications

Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in agronomy, crop science, plant breeding, agricultural engineering, or a closely related field
Demonstrated experience leading agricultural field research, performance trials, or seed certification programs
Experience shaping and executing long-term vision, including strategic planning and organizational growth
Experience influencing policy, standards, or industry practices at the state, regional, or national level
Strong financial acumen, including experience guiding organizational budgeting, resource allocation, and long-term financial sustainability
Experience in higher‑education or university‑affiliated organizations

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Why Choose ISU?

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

This position serves at the pleasure of university administration and is exempt from certain P&S policies.

Appointment Type:

Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

PS814

Original Posting Date:

April 22, 2026

Posting Close Date:

May 21, 2026

Job Requisition Number:

R18923

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email [email protected].

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.