Senior Director, Global Programs and Services (APPLY VIA SEARCH FIRM)

About the role

The Senior Director provides overall leadership of international student and scholar advising, global program development, Study Abroad and Away programs, and SEVIS-related functions. Oversees departmental operations, budgets, fee structures, and revenue streams to ensure transparency, accountability, and long-term financial sustainability. Develops financial and resource strategies to support program growth, scholarship development, and operational effectiveness. Cultivates a high-performing, inclusive team environment through staff supervision, coaching, professional development, and performance management.

Responsibilities

• Serves as Primary Designated School Official (PDSO) and Responsible Officer (RO), holding institutional authority and accountability for SEVIS and exchange visitor program compliance.
• Ensures institutional compliance with applicable laws, and policies by establishing and maintaining effective procedures and internal controls.
• Enhances operational effectiveness through process improvement and the strategic use of technology.
• Establishes and advances a comprehensive vision and long-range strategy for international education programs and services, supporting institutional internationalization, growth, and sustainability.
• Led the development of strategic priorities, goals, and key performance indicators for ISSS and Study Abroad and Away (SAA), aligned with divisional, campus, and CSU priorities.
• Serves as chief storyteller for Global Programs, communicating impact through compelling narratives and an annual impact report.
• Uses data and program performance insights to inform decision-making, program development, and resource allocation.
• Leads assessment and evaluation efforts using findings to improve program quality and student outcomes.
• Serves as key advisor to the Associate Vice President for Equity and Belonging/Senior International Officer, providing insight on global trends, geopolitical risks, and emerging opportunities.
• Represents the university in local, national, and international forums and maintains awareness of global trends, policies, and emerging issues.
• Collaborates across the institution to advance internationalization and global engagement initiatives.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., international education, global studies, higher education leadership, international relations, etc.) from an accredited institution.
• Seven years of experience administering Global Programs and Services as a senior level administrator (e.g., assistant/associate director or director) in higher education.
• Five years of experience advising and/or counseling international students in higher education.
• Five years of experience serving as a DSO/PDSO/RO/ARO or experience overseeing staff serving in those roles.
• Experience leading teams to develop a strategy to achieve a set of identified goals and objectives.
• Experience working with diverse student populations and advancing equity, inclusion, and access in a university setting.
• Demonstrated ability to lead collaborative, cross-divisional initiatives and maintain effective partnerships across university departments.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, strategic thinking and decision-making ability.

Qualifications

• Doctorate degree in higher education administration or educational leadership, or related field.
• Experience living and/or studying abroad.

Skills

• Ability to develop and implement strategic, operational, and financial plans that support program growth and sustainability.
• Strong organizational and leadership skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and initiatives in a complex environment.
• Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to present information clearly and represent the university effectively.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships across academic and administrative units and with diverse internal and external partners.
• Ability to lead, supervise, and develop staff and cross-functional teams to achieve institutional and program goals.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to exercise sound judgment and manage risk in dynamic situations.
• Knowledge of and ability to apply university, CSU, state, and federal policies and regulations related to international education, including immigration requirements for F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors.
• Knowledge of risk management and crisis response principles, with the ability to support students and staff during critical incidents.
• Ability to communicate with constituents in a professional and respectful manner.

Benefits

The final hiring salary will be commensurate with experience. San José State University offers employees a comprehensive benefits package typically worth 30-35% of your base salary. For more information on programs available, please see the Employee Benefits Summary.

Pay

$12,084/month - $12,917/month

Schedule

Administrator II