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 portfolio serving more than 3,000 international students and scholars, setting the long‑term vision and operational priorities for global programs that support student success and equity.

In partnership with academic and external stakeholders, the Senior Director advances the university’s internationalization strategy by translating institutional goals into inclusive practices that integrate global engagement across academic and co‑curricular pathways. The role strengthens the academic and co‑curricular experience of international students and expands global and domestic exchange opportunities, aligning initiatives with student success, workforce readiness, and community impact.

The Senior Director designs and implements high‑impact global learning opportunities that expand access and mobility for all students, focusing on historically underserved and underrepresented populations.

The Senior Director ensures compliance with federal, state, CSU and campus policies governing international students and scholars, advances sustainable financial models, manages staff and resources, and uses data‑informed practices to drive continuous improvement and strategic growth.

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 for transparency, accountability and long‑term sustainability.
• Develops financial and resource strategies to support program growth, scholarship development and operational effectiveness.
• Cultivates a high‑performing, inclusive team through supervision, coaching, professional development and performance management.
• Oversees a comprehensive portfolio of programs and services supporting enrollment, academic success, retention and lawful status of international students and scholars.
• Serves as Primary Designated School Official (PDSO) and Responsible Officer (RO) for SEVIS compliance.
• Establishes and maintains effective procedures and internal controls to ensure compliance with applicable laws and policies.
• Enhances operational effectiveness through process improvement and strategic use of technology.
• Establishes a long‑range strategy for international education programs and services, supporting institutional internationalization, growth and sustainability.
• Leads development of strategic priorities, goals and KPIs for ISSS and Study Abroad and Away, aligned with divisional, campus and CSU priorities.
• Integrates global programs with university priorities including enrollment strategy, student success and equity and belonging.
• Develops, negotiates and manages strategic partnerships and agreements, including bilateral exchange, vendor and third‑party contracts.
• Serves as chief storyteller for Global Programs, communicating impact through 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 to improve program quality and student outcomes.
• Represents the university in local, national and international forums, staying aware 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 ability to manage multiple priorities in a complex environment.
• Excellent written, oral and interpersonal communication skills, including presenting information clearly.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships across academic and administrative units and with diverse partners.
• Ability to lead, supervise and develop staff and cross‑functional teams to achieve goals.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, exercising sound judgment and managing risk.
• Knowledge of 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.
• Ability to communicate with constituents professionally and respectfully.

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 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 overseeing staff in those roles.
• Experience leading teams to develop and achieve strategic goals.
• Experience working with diverse student populations and advancing equity, inclusion and access.
• Demonstrated ability to lead collaborative, cross‑divisional initiatives and maintain effective partnerships.
• 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. Out of state candidates must obtain a California driver’s license within 10 days of hire. Candidates must complete the Defensive Driver Training Program provided by the State of California for CSU 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. SJSU offers a comprehensive benefits package typically worth 30‑35% of base salary.

Equal Employment Statement

San José 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 students, faculty and staff, as well as university programs and activities. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and other federal and state laws prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex in all education programs and activities operated by the university. Reasonable accommodation is made for applicants with disabilities who self‑disclose. San José 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.