Dean, Collat School of Business

The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB, or the University) seeks an innovative and visionary dean to continue the ongoing momentum of the Collat School of Business (CSOB, or the School) and to meet the dynamic demands of preparing students for success as leaders and business professionals through a balanced approach to teaching, research, and service.

Founded shortly after the university's creation in 1969, the School is home to more than 3,000 students, 60+ faculty members, and 30+ staff members. It enjoys a high student retention rate, and faculty engage in high-impact research worldwide. Degree and certificate programs are rigorous and varied. Year-round internships and other applied learning experiences allow students to distinguish themselves in innovative ways. The School proudly boasts approximately 24,000 global alumni. CSOB enjoys a unique place in UAB history. It was the first named school at UAB, recognizing the generosity and philanthropy of Charles and Patsy Collat and their family.

CSOB occupies a state-of-the-art facility that opened in 2018. The $37.5 million capital project included $15 million raised through community support. CSOB sits not only in the heart of UAB, but also in the heart of Alabama's business center, Birmingham. The prime location allows faculty to integrate the practical experiences of the state's leading companies – from Fortune 500 corporations to entrepreneurial startups – into programs offered.

The dean of the UAB Collat School of Business is its chief academic and executive officer, reporting to the University's Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. The dean's role is to lead the School's core academic functions and further the mission and goals of the University. This includes engaging with the diverse greater Birmingham community through the education of entrepreneurs and other forms of business innovation support.

WittKieffer is assisting the University of Alabama at Birmingham in this search. Applications can be submitted through the WittKieffer Candidate Portal. Applicants should submit, as separate documents, a CV or résumé and a letter of interest that addresses the themes outlined in the profile. For full consideration, candidate materials should be received by July 29, 2026.

Nominations and inquiries can be directed to the WittKieffer consultants supporting this search:

Ryan Crawford | rcrawford@wittkieffer.com

Julia Bradley | jbradley@wittkieffer.com