Dean, Rice Business

Rice University

Houston, Texas

Rice University (Rice), one of the nation’s premier private research universities, seeks a visionary, entrepreneurial, and collaborative leader to serve as the next Dean of Rice Business. Building on five decades of achievement, the Dean will guide Rice Business through its next phase of growth and distinction, advancing its reputation, expanding its impact, and positioning it among the world’s leading business schools.

Located in the heart of Houston, Texas, Rice University is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU) and is widely recognized for its excellence in research, teaching, and student outcomes. Founded in 1912, Rice enrolls approximately 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students and is home to more than 1,000 faculty members across eight schools. The University combines the strengths of a world-class research institution with a collaborative and student-centered culture. Under the leadership of President Reginald DesRoches and guided by its ambitious Momentous strategic plan, Rice is pursuing a bold vision to become the world’s premier research and teaching university while expanding its global visibility, graduate education, and research enterprise. Houston provides a uniquely powerful environment for Rice. As the fourth-largest city in the United States and a global center for energy, healthcare, and international logistics and transportation, Houston offers unparalleled opportunities for industry engagement, innovation, and experiential learning.

Established in 1974, Rice Business has evolved into one of the nation’s most respected and fastest-growing business schools. Today, the School comprises both the Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Business and the recently established Virani Undergraduate School of Business, reflecting Rice’s commitment to developing leaders at every stage of their careers. Guided by a mission to develop principled, innovative thought leaders who create impact in global communities, Rice Business has earned recognition for its academic quality, entrepreneurial orientation, and innovative approach to management education. Currently ranked in the top 20 MBA programs by the Financial Times and among the top 30 in U.S. News & World Report, Rice Business has established a reputation for excellence across its programs. Its part-time MBA ranks No. 11 in U.S. News, and the Executive MBA is No. 19. Rice Business has ranked No. 1 for Graduate Entrepreneurship in the U.S. for seven consecutive years in The Princeton Review and Entrepreneur magazine. Rice Business’s newly established BBA program, admitting its first class in 2021, is poised to be among the top undergraduate programs. Rice University is ranked No. 17 in U.S. News & World Report's National Universities rankings, with only four higher-ranked universities offering undergraduate business programs.

Building on Rice Business’s remarkable momentum and continued ambition, the next Dean will provide strategic leadership at a defining moment for both the school and the university. Reporting to the Provost, Dr. Amy K. Dittmar, the Dean will articulate and advance a compelling vision aligned with Rice’s institutional aspirations; strengthen the school’s academic programs, research enterprise, and global reputation; and continue to foster a culture of excellence, innovation, collaboration, and belonging. The Dean will lead with transparency and be a persistent supporter of both faculty and staff while continuing to elevate the student experience. As the school’s chief academic and external leader, the Dean will elevate Rice Business’s profile, deepen engagement with alumni, donors, and industry partners, drive interdisciplinary collaboration across the university, and leverage Houston’s dynamic business environment to create new opportunities for growth and impact.

Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the completion of the search process. Inquiries, nominations, referrals, and CVs with cover letters should be sent via the Isaacson, Miller website:https://www.imsearch.com/open-searches/rice-university-jones-graduate-school-business-and-virani-undergraduate-school

Courtney Wilk-Mandel, Partner

John Muckle, Partner

Kristen Andersen, Senior Associate

Ethan Thomas, Managing Search Coordinator

Isaacson, Miller