Missouri State launches JVIC executive director search 

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JVIC director Allen Kunkel to retire after 19 years at MSU

Missouri State University is seeking an executive director for the Roy Blunt Jordan Valley Innovation Center.

Brad Bodenhausen, vice president for community and global partnerships at MSU, said the upcoming departure of longtime leader Allen Kunkel was an opportunity to rethink the position.

Kunkel, who will retire June 30 after 19 years, currently serves as director of JVIC and associate vice president for economic development, advancing IDEA Commons and providing oversight of the Efactory.

“This recently posted position is solely focused on JVIC leadership and does not include the broader responsibilities that Allen currently holds,” Bodenhausen said.

Bodenhausen said the new executive director will not oversee the Efactory.

The JVIC research and technology center at 524 N. Boonville Ave. opened its doors in 2007 and has expanded, in phases. It is home to the Center for Applied Science and Engineering and the Missouri NextFlex Node.

According to the job posting, the next executive director will develop and maintain relationships with industry partners, community leaders and state and federal officials to secure external funding through contracts, grants, services and training.

The new director is also expected to work closely with the university to encourage participation in research projects, applied science and technology programs, and internships.

The responsibilities of the administrative position include budgeting, managing affiliates and tenants, strategic business development and oversight of training program.

MSU will start reviewing applications as early as May 6.

Kunkel’s salary was $156,818 for the 2024-25 academic year, but Bodenhausen said pay for the new hire has not been finalized.

“We do not yet know what the starting salary will be,” he said. “We are aiming to have the position filled in July at the earliest.”