Rector

Zamorano University, an institution dedicated to sustainability, innovation, and social impact in Latin America, seeks a leader to amplify the power of its highly effective and distinct educational model to take on the great issues of our era: global challenges in food security, sustainable agriculture, and environmental science. Its next rector will uphold this institution’s remarkable legacy as one of the top agricultural universities in the world and honor its traditions, and also propel this critical institution forward, accelerating its ability to shape the next generation of ethical leaders who will contribute to a more prosperous and food-secure world. With a deep understanding of Zamorano's distinct institutional culture and challenges, the rector will balance aspiration with achievable priorities, leading with pragmatism through structural and financial constraints.

Founded more than 80 years ago, Zamorano University’s teaching, applied research, and community outreach programs are focused on sustainable and competitive agriculture, agribusiness, food technology, food security, and environmental science. The University has a transformative impact on its talented, hardworking students, who come from over 20 Latin American countries and around the world. Zamorano places a strong emphasis on providing need-based scholarship funding to enable students to come to the University from communities impacted by poverty and malnutrition, studying alongside full-pay students and building bridges across the University’s diverse population. Its campus is a botanical garden and biological reserve in Honduras, and the impact of this enriching, multicultural, and Pan-American environment spans far beyond the grounds. The University is a strategic ally to international universities, communities, governments, and the private sector for the advancement of agricultural programs and enterprises that benefit all of Latin America, as approximately 95% of Zamorano alumni (Zamoranos) return to their home countries to apply the skills and expertise they develop at the University.

This role calls for a proven leader who can leverage the expertise of a multinational Board of Trustees, foster strong shared governance, and drive strategic growth in enrollment by expanding outreach throughout the region. The rector will champion academic excellence, advancing Zamorano’s reputation as a global reference in tropical agriculture through curriculum innovation, faculty empowerment, and increased funding. With strong operational and financial acumen, they will enhance institutional efficiency, maximize revenue from production units, and invest strategically in infrastructure and technology. They will also work to strengthen Zamorano’s commitment to environmental sustainability. Central to this role is nurturing a collaborative, inclusive community that supports students’ academic and personal development. Additionally, the rector will elevate the University’s visibility by cultivating lasting relationships with alumni, donors, governments, and partners worldwide, leading impactful fundraising efforts that fuel Zamorano’s mission and regional influence. It is vital that the rector be highly visible as an engaged and committed leader to all constituencies.

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation for this position will be competitive and negotiated in good faith. The role has an attractive benefits package including housing support, health insurance, and more. Relocation and visa support can be provided for this role, depending on the needs of the candidate.

Applications, Inquiries, and Nominations

Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the completion of the search process. Confidential inquiries, nominations, referrals, and applications (including resumes and two- to four-page letters of interest responding to the opportunities and challenges outlined above) should be sent below.

Philip Petree is leading this search with Kennedy Kearney-Fischer and Jonathan Sanchez.

Zamorano University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe we are a better, stronger, and more effective organization when we create a culture that welcomes and includes a diverse set of backgrounds and perspectives, and we can learn from one another. We welcome people of all backgrounds—especially when their life experiences, abilities, and perspectives can offer valuable insight to our work supporting some of the most vulnerable and marginalized populations in the world. Zamorano will provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals. Employment decisions at Zamorano will be based on merit, qualifications and abilities. Zamorano does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, gender identity, age, disability, marital status or any other characteristic protected by the law. Zamorano will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities unless doing so will result in undue hardship to daily operations.