Senior Director, Global Programs and Services

San José State University•San Jose, CA

1d•$12,084 - $12,917

About The Position

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. In partnership with academic and external stakeholders, the Senior Director advances the university’s internationalization strategy by translating institutional goals into actionable, inclusive practices that integrate global engagement across academic and co-curricular pathways. This position strengthens the academic and co-curricular experience of international students and expands global and domestic exchange opportunities. Working closely with the AVP for Student Equity and Belonging/Senior International Officer, this role aligns global 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, with a focus on historically underserved and underrepresented populations. This includes embedding equitable practices across programs and services, addressing barriers to participation, and fostering an inclusive campus environment where all students can engage meaningfully in global experiences. The Senior Director ensures institutional compliance with federal and state regulations, as well as CSU and campus policies governing international students and scholars. The Senior Director also advances sustainable financial models, including fee structures and revenue strategies. They will also be responsible for managing staff and resources; and using data-informed practices to drive continuous improvement and strategic growth in global initiatives. Serving as a key advisor to the Associate Vice President for Equity and Belonging/Senior International Officer, the Senior Director provides insight on global trends, geopolitical risks, and emerging opportunities. As a member of the Equity and Belonging leadership team the Senior Director contributes to Student Affairs divisional strategic planning, implementation, and assessment.

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.
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.

Nice To Haves

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

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 story teller 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.