Executive Director of Global Initiatives

Executive Director of Global Initiatives

LOCATION: Wayland Baptist University (WBU) Plainview, Texas

SUPERVISED BY: Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation/Chief of Staff

POSITION CLASSIFICATION: Exempt

POSITIONS SUPERVISED BY: Designated School Officials and International Programs Staff

GENERAL SUMMARY:

The Executive Director of Global Initiatives may also serve as the Primary Designated School Official (PDSO) and works with a dynamic team to process immigration benefits on behalf of the international students at Wayland Baptist University. This position works closely with undergraduate and graduate departments and students throughout the academic journey, providing excellent customer service while also ensuring compliance with university and immigration regulations. Successful applicants must be able to demonstrate interpersonal and intercultural communication skills due to the diverse population of students this position helps to serve. The Executive Director of Global Initiatives will be expected to provide high-quality services befitting the Christian mission of the university. This position will (a) oversee, analyze, assess, and develop strategic initiatives for international enrollment across all campus locations as appropriate, (b) facilitate interactions with international agents, agencies, and recruiters, and (c) function as a representative to various administrative and academic units for international enrollment

SPECIFIC TASKS AND DUTIES:

Visa and Compliance

• Process and manage F-1, J-1, and other visa applications for students and scholars.
• Ensure compliance with federal immigration regulations and institutional policies.
• Monitor and report immigration data to government agencies.

Advising and Support

• Provide comprehensive advice and support to international students and scholars on immigration, academic, logistical, and other issues.
• Connect students and scholars with campus resources and opportunities.
• Develop and deliver training programs on immigration regulations for faculty and staff.

Communication and Marketing

• Develop and implement communication strategies to reach international students and scholars.
• Manage and maintain the Immigration Services website.
• Create and distribute informational materials.

Program Development and Management

• Plan and implement programs and services to enhance the international student experience.
• Collaborate with senior administrators and other employees across all Wayland campuses, schools and units concerning the identification, implementation, and performance of international initiatives.
• Manage budgets and resources for the Office of Global Initiatives.

Additional Duties

• Assist with university-wide projects related to internationalization.
• Participate in committees and meetings.
• Engage in professional development opportunities related to immigration law and international education.
• Serve as Wayland's liaison to the Consortium for Global Education and other related organizations as appropriate.

The above statements are not a complete list of all responsibilities and duties performed by employees in this job. Employee may perform other related duties as assigned by Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation/Chief of Staff

Preferred Education Requirements

Graduate degree required.

Outstanding relational, communication, and organizational skills.

Ability to communicate and interact from various locations and remotely.

Minimum of three (3) years of experience in recruitment/retention of international students in a higher education setting.

Experience and Knowledge:

• Experience in post-secondary teaching and/or administration,
• A deep commitment to Christian Higher Education,
• An understanding of and commitment to working with educational programs related to churches, businesses, and industries.
• Experience in the area of management and supervising staff.
• An appreciation for and willingness to understand other cultures and practices while continuing to embrace and uphold Wayland's values and traditions.

Skills and Abilities:

• Must be proficient with Microsoft Office applications and possess the ability to learn and apply other applicable software programs adopted by the University.
• Must possess good verbal and written skills plus good listening skills.
• Must be detail-oriented and have good organizational skills.
• Ability to understand and interpret personnel policies and procedures.
• Ability to be flexible, prioritize, and available to work extended hours as needed.
• Ability to follow directions and work cooperatively with others.
• Must be willing and able to travel domestically and internationally as necessary.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

Employment is subject to an introductory period to monitor employee performance. If hired, the prospective employee must present documentation within three (3) days of hire date to establish their identity and employment eligibility as required by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Employee must be able and willing to travel and teach at external campuses. Must be able to operate a licensed motor vehicle, have access to a dependable motor vehicle, and possess a valid state driver's license. Must have and maintain a satisfactory driver's record.

Wayland Baptist University does not unlawfully discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic.