(a)
(1) The board of regents is empowered to employ a chief executive officer of the board of regents whose office shall be located in Nashville.
(2) The board shall define the chief executive officer's duties, and within budgetary limitations, fix the chief executive officer's compensation.
(3) The chief executive officer shall serve at the pleasure of the board and shall have educational preparation and experience that qualify the chief executive officer for leadership of a large complex system of public higher education.
(b) The board or its designated representative is empowered to employ additional professional and staff employees as may be appropriate for the efficient discharge of its duties.
(c) All reimbursement for travel expenses shall be in accordance with the comprehensive travel regulations as promulgated by the department of finance and administration and approved by the attorney general and reporter.