The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education outlined the qualifications they are seeking in the next person to lead the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education in a position profile released at today’s regularly scheduled meeting.

The State Regents are conducting a national search for the next Chancellor of the Oklahoma state system of higher education to replace retiring Chancellor Glen Johnson this September. Chancellor Johnson has led the system for 14 years, making him one the longest-serving leaders of a state public higher education system in the country.

Working with a national search firm specializing in high profile executive education searches, the State Regents’ search committee outlined the knowledge, skills, abilities, and characteristics to guide the process for selecting the bestqualified person.

“We take the responsibility to find the next Chancellor of Oklahoma public higher education very seriously,” said State Regents’ chair Ann Holloway. “The Chancellor serves as the chief executive officer, overseeing Oklahoma’s coordinated system of 25 public colleges and universities. Producing more college graduates, especially in aerospace, energy, agriculture, and healthcare, is imperative for a growing economy. Our ability to attract and retain businesses depends on ensuring we have an active and responsive higher education system. That’s why we are seeking an innovative, strategic leader with experience and vision to work with our institutions to develop and advance student-focused, results-oriented academic, research and public service initiatives. This position offers the right candidate the opportunity to play a defining role in shaping the future of higher education in Oklahoma.”

The position profile, which will be condensed and advertised in a variety of national higher education publications, will also target trade organizations and private industry to attract a broad, diverse and inclusive candidate pool.

The State Regents retained the services of Buffkin/Baker, a global executive search firm, to assist in the national search process. Applications and nominations may be directed to Mr. Martin Baker, Managing Partner of Buffkin/Baker, at martin@buffkinbaker.com, with preference given to applications submitted by June 30, 2021. Members of the media and public may visit the State Regents’ website at https://www.okhighered.org/statesystem/chancellor-search/for updates throughout the search process.