Serving as a bridge between the faculty and the college and university administrative leadership, the role of Departmental Executive Officer (DEO) is integral to strategic leadership at the university. The core responsibilities of the DEO include: formulating and implementing a strategic plan for the unit; stimulating professional development for faculty and staff; recruiting and supporting high-quality personnel; ensuring a welcoming environment that allows all to thrive; facilitating instructional developments; encouraging and recognizing scholarship among faculty; managing resources; establishing civil and professional communications among faculty, staff, students, and external constituencies (UI Policy Manual 28.3(2))

This Toolkit brings together resources for DEOs that are organized around three key areas, and it provides templates to help guide conversations and strategic planning within the department.