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

Job Summary

Reporting to the Executive Director, Belonging and Engagement Strategies, the Senior Director for Global Programs and Services provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) and Study Abroad and Away (SAA). The Senior Director oversees a broad portfolio serving more than 3,000 international students and scholars, including matriculated students, study abroad students, and visiting scholars. The Senior Director is responsible for setting the long‑term vision, direction, and operational priorities for global programs that support student success and equity, while ensuring alignment with the university's broader internationalization strategy.

*All applicants must apply via the search firm.*

Key Responsibilities

• 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.
• Oversees a comprehensive portfolio of programs and services supporting the enrollment, academic success, retention, and lawful status of international students and scholars.
• 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.
• Leads 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.
• Ensures global programs and services are integrated with university priorities, including enrollment strategy, student success, and equity and belonging.
• The Senior Director develops, negotiates, and manages strategic partnerships and agreements including bilateral exchange, vendors and third‑party provider contracts to expand global learning and exchange opportunities. The role oversees all partnership agreements and service contracts, including technology platforms and related services.
• 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.
• 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.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• 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.

Required Qualifications

• 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.

Preferred Qualifications

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

License

A valid driver’s license is required for this position. Out‑of‑state candidates selected for the position must obtain a State of California driver’s license within 10 days of hire in accordance with the California Department of Motor Vehicles regulations.

Once hired the employee must successfully complete the Defensive Driver Training Program provided by the State of California for California State University campuses.

Compensation

Classification: Administrator II
Anticipated Hiring Range: $12,084/month – $12,917/month
CSU Salary Range: $5,053/month – $16,221/month

The final hiring salary will be commensurate with experience.

San Jose 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.

Equal Employment Statement

San Jose State University is an equal opportunity employer. The university prohibits discrimination based on age, ancestry, caste, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military status, nationality, race, religion, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, sex stereotype, and veteran status. This policy applies to all San Jose State University students, faculty, and staff, as well as university programs and activities. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and certain other federal and state laws, prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex in all education programs and activities operated by the university (both on and off campus). Reasonable accommodation is made for applicants with disabilities who self‑disclose. San Jose State University employees are considered mandated reporters under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and are required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.