Mission:
The position provides program and administrative direction for the Center. The Center Director is responsible for planning, coordinating, implementing, and evaluating research programs designed to accomplish the organizational mission and research objectives of ARS. The incumbent serves as the primary point of contact for the Center. • Participates with the Area Director and research program leaders in developing criteria for budgetary priorities and research program projections. Ensures program objectives can be met within the existing resources. Provides leadership, direction and systematic approaches to identify research needs of stakeholders. Fosters and develops cooperative relationships to address the needs of ARS and the location. • Keeps the Area Director fully informed of program and related considerations bearing on the development of research priorities and projections, budgets, and use of facilities. Identifies problem areas requiring attention and recommends approaches. Recommends curtailment or termination of unproductive research programs or programs with completed missions. • Provides leadership for research program planning, and implementation of the overall research missions, goals, and policies of ARS. Provides interpretations of general policy, makes difficult and important decisions regarding the conduct, coordination, and integration of research programs in relation to available resources. • Collaborates with the Office of National Programs and the Area Office in planning, coordinating, and evaluating joint research established to fulfill the need for integrated, multidisciplinary approaches across the Agency strategic plans. Supports the Agency programs concerning humane care and use of all vertebrate animals. • Provides administrative & financial leadership to the location in partnership with the Administrative Officer, the Area Office, and Administrative & Financial Management (AFM).