Director of International Admissions

About the role

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home of Harvard’s undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard’s Ph.D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academic departments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.

Job-Specific Responsibilities

• Implement marketing & outreach plans, based on Harvard's commitment to recruit a highly diverse applicant pool across multiple dimensions; oversee efforts to improve pathways to college for international students.
• Establish and monitor policies and procedures for the international admissions process, recruitment strategy, and alumni interviewing abroad.
• Supervise two staff.
• Forecast and monitor budget; work with admissions officers to design cost-effective recruiting trips abroad.
• Evaluate international credentials (e.g., applicants, potential student-athletes, advanced standing petitioners, etc.) and evaluate applications for first-year admissions; investigate possible cases of fraud; chair admissions subcommittees; serve on transfer admission committee.
• Train and guide admissions officers in the evaluation of international applications/credentials and other admissions-related tasks (including responding to inquiries, working with alumni, etc.).
• Advise/collaborate with other Harvard offices; represent Harvard College international admissions to a wide range of stakeholders, partners, and other professionals.
• May travel abroad to present information about Harvard College, explain admissions criteria and procedures, interview and recruit students, cultivate alumni relations, train interviewers, and develop relationships with schools, NGOs (non-governmental organizations), CBOs (community-based organizations), and US State Department educational advisers.

Working Conditions

• Must be able to work nights/weekends and travel as needed.
• Work is typically performed in an office setting, but may be hybrid as directed by FAS.
• This position will be based in Cambridge, MA. All remote work must be performed in a state in which Harvard is registered to do business (such as CT, MA, NH, and RI).

Physical Requirements

• Sitting using near vision use for reading and computer use for extended periods of time.
• Lifting (approximately 20 to 30 pounds), bending, and other physical exertion.

Basic Qualifications (required)

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience required
• Minimum of 8 years’ relevant work experience
• Supervisory experience

Additional Qualifications and Skills (preferred)

• Advanced knowledge of international recruitment strategies and programs preferred.
• Ability to undertake extensive international travel when necessary.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, including ability to build rapport across teammates, motivate others, foster genuine and meaningful collaboration with diverse constituencies, and share knowledge effectively.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills (both written and verbal), including ability to make presentations to large groups. Ability to build relationships and collaborate with a diverse set of internal and external constituencies.
• Ability to work well under pressure, as well as strong time management and organizational skills to meet deadlines.
• Demonstrated initiative, professional judgment, and ability to keep information confidential; problem solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to quickly learn and navigate complex organizations and contexts.
• Knowledge of foreign language(s) and/or experience teaching English as a foreign language helpful.
• Knowledge of U.S. student visa process helpful.
• Master's degree in relevant field helpful.
• Proficiency with the office productivity and collaboration tools, as well as admissions and financial aid software; access to internet to review applications and work remotely as needed.

Salaries and Benefits

• Salary Grade and Ranges: This position is salary grade level 059. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.
• Benefits: Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.