GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The Citrus Research and Development Foundation has launched a search for its next chief operating officer.

Located at the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Center in Lake Alfred, Florida, the CRDF is a direct support organization of the University of Florida. This not-for-profit corporation was established to support Florida’s citrus industry through science, outreach and technological innovation. It receives funding from state sources, including box taxes from the citrus industry, as well as federal and private industry to seek solutions.

“As the Florida citrus industry battles citrus greening and other production challenges, the mission of CRDF is more important than ever,” said Larry Black, 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.”

The COO will be responsible for coordinating, overseeing and reviewing CRDF programs and day-to-day business operations. He or she will report to Jack Payne, UF senior vice president of agriculture and natural resources, and to the CRDF board of directors on the progress of all research, education and Extension initiatives.

“The person in this position will have the opportunity to make a real difference in the future of citrus in Florida. I’m confident that the search committee will find a candidate who is passionate about leading a united front in the struggle against citrus greening,” Payne said.

Potential candidates can find a detailed job description, requirements and application on the UF careers website. Review of the applicants will begin May 11.

For questions or more information, please contact interim CRDF director John Arthington (jarth@ufl.edu) or the website for CRDF at www.citrusrdf.org.

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The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS works to bring science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. Visit the UF/IFAS web site at ifas.ufl.edu and follow us on social media at @UF_IFAS.

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