Director Academic Innovation Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

ABOUT AASCU

AASCU represents the sector of over 500 regional public colleges, universities, and systems united in the mission to expand student access and success, promote experiential learning, and advance economic and community development. Our member institutions are at the forefront of academic innovation, serving a diverse student population committed to excellence in public higher education. 

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. We are unable to sponsor or transfer employment visas at this time.

ABOUT THE DIVISION 

The Division of Academic Innovation and Transformation (AIT) provides programming, services, and expertise to assist members in their academic missions. Through grant-funded scaling initiatives, leadership development programs, and large and small convenings, the Division supports institutional transformation in the areas of civic and global engagement, student success, teacher education, and other career preparation for workforce development. Through innovative programming and strategic partnerships, the Division is dedicated to preparing students who are responsible and engaged global citizens. 

EXPECTATIONS FOR ALL EMPLOYEES

Supports the organization’s mission, vision, and values by exhibiting the following behaviors: commitment to diversity and equity, excellence and competence, collaboration, innovation, accountability, ownership, and adherence to policies and procedures.

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The Civic and Global Engagement team within the Division of Academic Innovation and Transformation supports member institutions in their mission to prepare students to lead productive and fulfilling lives as globally engaged citizens.  
The Assistant Director, Asia Programs, coordinates and manages AASCU’s signature and emerging programs with international partners in Asia in the service of that mission. The Assistant Director serves the needs of member institutions and represents AASCU's interests in its partnerships with international education-related organizations to broaden and deepen connections between AASCU members and global partners, with a particular emphasis on Asia.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

International Education Program Management

• Develop and implement financially sustainable international education programs, with a specific focus on Asia. 
• Serve as the coordinator and liaison between AASCU and China Education Association for International Exchange (CEAIE) in the development, implementation, and management of designated programs.  
• Annually assess programs based on revenue targets achieved as well as quantitative and qualitative evaluations of member satisfaction and program impact.
• Provide guidance and input to the Assistant Vice President, Civic and Global Engagement.
• Work in partnership with the Assistant Director, International Education.

Student Mobility and Exchange Program Management
Project: Cooperation of Higher Education and Professional Development (CHEPD) 1+2+1 Program

• Design, develop, manage, publicize, promote, and assess the CHEPD 1+2+1 Program to AASCU and CCIEE member institutions. 
• Provide advice and guidance to participating campus coordinators in terms of general policies, regulations, and operational procedures, including admission and enrollment procedures.
• Provide guidance and training to US institutions regarding student placements and orientations.
• Lead and work with 1+2+1 Program Executive Advisory Committee (EAC) for policy changes and program improvement on behalf of all US participating institutions
• Coordinate with participating institutions on program design, development, and operation of recruitment strategies, arrangement for student visa applications, and pre-departure orientations, timelines, and regulations.
• Assist campuses with advising of students in the program, including emergency issues, such as death, accidents, violation of laws, etc. 
• Communicate with US Embassy and consulates regarding visa appointments, preparation and orientation.
• Promote and seek funding through various channels for American students to study abroad in China.  
• Ensure that the website and all publications are current.
• Monitor relevant policy, legal, economic, and cultural developments that could impact CHEPD 1+2+1 programs. 
• Manage and monitor the program budget and financial structure. 

Project: American Short-term Study in China Initiatives (ASSCI) Program

• Design and plan faculty-led programs for American students to study in China.
• Liaise with the Chinese Embassy to manage program logistics.
• Select and advise candidates on application procedures and program design, as relevant.
• Provide assistance and support to awardees for students’ scholarship applications and processes.
• Conduct pre-departure orientation for students for travel planning.
• Design and implement program evaluation.
• Prepare and deliver an annual program report.

Professional/Faculty Development and Exchange

• Serve as primary lead for AASCU programs to empower faculty professional development and exchange, with a focus on China and Asia, including support with program development and transformation, and primary responsibility for program promotion, candidate selection, day-to-day agenda planning, curricular design, pre-departure orientation for candidates, program evaluation, and post-program reporting.

Convenings 

• Design, plan, organize, and assess the 1+2+1 Program Presidents’ Forum, annual conference, and graduation ceremony each year for participating institutions’ senior administrators to meet and discuss common topics of interest and meet with students.
• Plan, organize, coordinate, and assess annual Chinese university officials’ visits to U. S. and to AASCU partner universities to promote and develop the educational exchanges among faculty members, senior administrators and students.    
• Organize the programs for, and coordinate the travel plans for US participants to, the following events:

o   June 1+2+1 graduation ceremony in China 

o   Fall 1+2+1 worker bee meeting in Washington DC 

o   Sino-US State-Provincial University Presidents’ Forum in October

o   October CEAIE Conference and Expo 

o   Other Chinese delegation and Embassy-related events as relevant

Program Development

• Manage other AASCU-focused Asia-related international education programs and initiatives as relevant.
• Contribute to developing emerging and innovative international education programs for AASCU and its members, with a particular focus on Asia.  

Divisional and Organizational Duties

• Participate in, and assist with, programs and projects in international education, including international presidential delegations.
• Represent AASCU at relevant international education events and convenings. 
• Participate in required divisional and organizational meetings.
• Provide support and assistance, when needed, for divisional and organizational programs and projects.
• Participate in and assist with appropriate divisional convenings.
   

QUALIFICATIONS

•    Master’s degree in international education or a closely related field is strongly preferred.
•    Expert knowledge of Chinese culture and language.
•    5-7 years of experience in postsecondary international education.
•    Experience working with multiple international partners.
•    Solicits feedback regularly and open to new ways of working.
•    Strong diplomacy skills in order to manage complex external relationships.
•    Ability to develop and monitor budgets (including revenue and expenses).
•    Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
•    Strong program development and problem-solving skills.
•    Ability to work independently, with minimal supervision.
•    Ability to work as an effective member of a diverse team.
•    Commitment to diverse and inclusive perspectives and disciplines across the organization 
•    Commitment to join with partners at all levels towards a common vision and the realization of transformational change.
•    Demonstrated ability to apply innovative and resourceful solutions to solve complex challenges.
•    Ability to understand a variety of perspectives, manage priorities, and decisively meet expectations.
•    Excellent written and verbal communication skills, along with strong attention to detail.
•    Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build trust and productive relationships.
•    Ability and willingness to travel internationally periodically.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. We are unable to sponsor or transfer employment visas at this time.

COMPENSATION, BENEFITS, AND LOCATION

The starting salary range for this exempt position is between $85,000-$100,000, plus a generous benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision insurance; fifteen paid holidays plus additional annual leave; above market contribution to company sponsored 403(b) retirement plan; on-site fitness facility, 24/7 building security, secured bike storage and more. Additionally, available underground public parking is accessible for all employees at their own expense.  
This is a full-time position located at AASCU’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. AASCU employees who work within commuting distance to our offices are expected to work on a hybrid in-person work schedule of three days in the office and two days optional remote. This schedule is subject to change based on work and organizational demands. 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

AASCU is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY 

AASCU is committed to creating and maintaining a workplace in which all employees have an opportunity to participate and contribute to the success of the business and are valued for their skills, experience, and unique perspectives. This commitment is embodied in all Association policies and the way we do business at AASCU.