Assistant Dean, Conservatory Recruitment

Position Description & Qualifications

REPORTS TO: Senior Associate Dean of Conservatory Admissions
LOCATION: Appleton, WI
PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: This position is responsible for the development and execution of a results-driven recruitment strategy, emphasizing active territory management, relationship building, and market outreach to maximize enrollment of a thriving and successful Conservatory of Music. The role requires a proactive approach and leading by example to aid in building relationships, achieving enrollment goals, and enhancing the university’s reputation. The successful candidate will employ a data-informed strategy to identify and convert high-potential candidates while contributing to Lawrence’s mission of academic excellence and community.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Territory Management: Develop and execute a high-impact recruitment strategy for the Conservatory of Music that supports enrollment goals across all degree programs and instrument areas. Utilize data analytics to identify growth opportunities, strengthen recruitment pipelines, and focus efforts on highly qualified prospective Conservatory students.
• Communications: Serve as the primary admissions representative for Conservatory recruitment. Initiate and sustain proactive outreach efforts through high school visits, music festivals, honor ensembles, competitions, summer programs, college fairs, workshops, and virtual engagement, cultivating a robust pipeline of qualified applicants. Travel extensively (6–8 weeks annually) to build and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders, including prospective students, families, music educators, private teachers, counselors, arts organizations, and others in the music education community, ensuring continued engagement and advocacy for Lawrence and the Conservatory. Serve as a trusted advisor to prospective students and families, effectively communicating Lawrence Conservatory’s unique combination of conservatory training and liberal arts education in a compelling and personalized manner. Follow up persistently with leads, employing tailored outreach to nurture relationships, address concerns, and guide prospective students through their enrollment journey.
• Application Review: Evaluate applications and audition outcomes with a strategic lens, aligning selections with Lawrence’s mission and Conservatory enrollment priorities. Drive yield conversions by recommending candidates for admission and merit scholarships while implementing targeted follow-up strategies to secure enrollment commitments.
• Programming and Office Contribution: Lead dynamic presentations, interviews, and recruitment events as part of on-campus and virtual programming, showcasing Lawrence Conservatory’s unique strengths and fostering meaningful connections. Promote Lawrence Conservatory at local, regional, and national events, strategically positioning the Conservatory as a premier destination for aspiring musicians. Collaborate on workgroups and special projects, contributing innovative ideas and solutions to drive enrollment success. Work across departmental lines with prospective students, families, staff, faculty, alumni, school counselors, music educators, and other stakeholders to foster relationships that support recruitment goals. Supervise Conservatory Admissions student interns, including training, mentoring, assigning recruitment-related projects, coordinating event support activities, and ensuring effective engagement with prospective students and families.
• Reporting and Metrics: Spearhead independent Conservatory admission projects, utilizing data-driven insights to optimize recruitment efforts and achieve measurable results. Analyze key performance indicators, providing actionable reports to refine strategies and ensure recruitment goals are exceeded. Expand referral networks by cultivating partnerships with music educators, private instructors, arts organizations, school counselors, independent advisors, and college access organizations, driving sustained applicant interest. Leverage independent judgment and ethical decision-making to maximize efficiency, maintain confidentiality, and uphold Lawrence’s reputation. Adapt to evolving priorities, taking ownership of diverse responsibilities to support overall enrollment objectives.
• Judgement, Ethics and Confidentiality: Exercise independent judgment in all work, ensuring ethical and efficient use of university resources. Maintain confidentiality and uphold the highest standards of integrity.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the office, team and university enrollment goals.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIRED

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in music.
• Demonstrated knowledge of music education, collegiate music study, performing arts recruitment, or a related field.
• Demonstrated cultural competence and a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion.
• Exceptional communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Valid driver’s license.

TO APPLY

Submit a resume and cover letter highlighting your interest in this position and relevant experience, along with references.

EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

• 3+ years of professional work experience in a results-driven environment.
• Successful completion of criminal record check, driving record check, and reference checks.