Citrus Research and Development Foundation Seeking New Leader

Posted by Paul Rusnak|April 30, 2018

Do you like citrus? Are you good at solving problems? If so, there’s a job opening you might want to consider. Florida’s Citrus Research and Development Foundation (CRDF) is in search of its next chief operating officer. The non-profit entity, which is a direct support organization of the University of Florida (UF), was established nearly a decade ago to support the state’s citrus industry through science, outreach, and technological innovation. The CRDF receives funding from state sources, including box taxes from the citrus industry, as well as federal and private industry to seek solutions.

In early March, Harold Browning, who held the Citrus Research and Development Foundation lead role since mid-2011, left to pursue industry-related endeavors in the private sector. Since then, UF/IFAS’ John Arthington has acted as interim COO.

“As the Florida citrus industry battles citrus greening and other production challenges, the mission of CRDF is more important than ever,” stated Larry Black, citrus grower and Chairman of the CRDF Board of Directors. “For this position, we are looking for someone who can partner with UF/IFAS leadership and foster continued collaboration among researchers, industry leaders, and stakeholders.”

According to UF, the new COO will be responsible for coordinating, overseeing, and reviewing CRDF programs and day-to-day business operations. The new hire will report to Jack Payne, UF Senior VP of Agriculture and Natural Resources, and to the CRDF board of directors on the progress of all research, education, and Extension initiatives.

Interested candidates can find a complete job description, requirements, and application on the UF careers website. Review of the applicants is slated to begin in mid-May.