By Howard Packowitz

NORMAL – Heartland Community College’s fourth president will take over next summer, and it’s hoped that person will be an empowering leader who inspires trust, is able to foster a culture of open communication, and yet make difficult decisions in the best interests of the college.

Those are some of qualilties listed in a just-published advertisement for the position.

Current President Rob Widmer announced in September that he’s retiring from the job he’s held since 2013.

The ad said the next president must have an advanced college degree and significant senior leadership experience, preferably in higher education.

The successful candidate is expected to have demonstrated financial skills, including how to manage a budget and raise revenue. Strong communication skills are also required, including experience as the visible, public representative of a large organization.

There’s no mention in the ad about the president’s salary. Widmer’s annual salary is $210,345.

Heartland’s Board of Trustees have hired the consultant firm Academic Search, at a cost of $50,000 plus travel expenses, to help find the next president.

Applications are due January 16th. The new president is expected to be named next spring, and officially take office on July first.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected].