Director, New Zealand Programs

IFSA-Butler; Auckland; Remote; NZD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading nonprofit organization is seeking a Director of New Zealand Programs to manage and enhance IFSA sites across New Zealand. This role involves leadership, program development, and stakeholder engagement to ensure high-quality student experiences and innovative programming. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in higher education or related sectors and a commitment to inclusive excellence.

Benefits

Superannuation contribution

Flexible work arrangements

Focus on work/life balance

Qualifications

• Experience in study abroad, higher education, hospitality, tourism, or nonprofit sectors.
• Ability to work independently in dynamic environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage IFSA sites in New Zealand.
• Develop and manage new programs.
• Build relationships within New Zealand and coordinate site visits.

Skills

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Program development

Leadership

Data-driven decision making

Education

5 years of relevant experience

Knowledge of the university system in New Zealand

Job description

Full Time with occasional evening and weekend work required

Salary: Minimum salary $100,000 NZD. Salary is commensurate with skills and experience

Benefits: Superannuation contribution, flexible work arrangements, and a focus on work/life balance.

Location: Work from home, with some travel. Preference for Auckland.

Reports to: Asia Pacific Regional Director, based in Australia

Position Overview

The Director of New Zealand Programs is responsible for leading and managing IFSA sites in New Zealand. Responsibilities include inspiring a commitment to first-class customer service for partners and students; ensuring high-quality programming that supports student learning and satisfaction; delivering business results through innovative program design; leading daily program administration; and expanding relationships with universities, industry, and partners to boost enrollment.

IFSA (Institute for Study Abroad) is a US-based nonprofit organization dedicated to creating global learning environments that equip students with essential perspectives, knowledge, and skills for future success. We offer innovative study abroad programs in 18 countries and 48 cities worldwide. Our core commitments include inclusive excellence, intercultural agility, personalized learning, and lasting impact.

We are passionate about inclusion and committed to building a community where diverse voices are valued. If you share our commitment to Inclusive Excellence and want to contribute to continuous improvement, IFSA is the right place for you.

Learn more at https://www.ifsa-butler.org/

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership: Model a service-oriented approach with stakeholders; develop local opportunities for student cultural and volunteer experiences; embody IFSA’s values of inclusion and intercultural understanding; contribute remotely to global initiatives.
• Program Development: Develop and manage new programs; oversee bid processes; ensure quality delivery of academic and experiential programs; define program goals and content.
• Partnership and Development: Build relationships within New Zealand; coordinate site visits; lead seminars for university partners.
• Program Operations: Collaborate on safety plans; manage emergency responses; train staff; oversee student housing and academic management; support student learning; improve operational processes; manage budgets and financial reports; understand legal and liability issues.

Qualifications and Skills

• At least 5 years of relevant experience, preferably in study abroad, higher education, hospitality, tourism, or nonprofit sectors.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills; experience supporting diverse student populations.
• Excellent communication skills across verbal, written, and presentation formats.
• Ability to work independently in dynamic environments; data-driven priority setting; accountability.
• Knowledge of the university system and student life in New Zealand.
• Legal right to work in New Zealand; residency in Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, or Wellington preferred.

We welcome candidates who may not meet all criteria but bring valuable perspectives and skills. Please apply and share your story.

Physical & Work Environment

Work involves computer use, phone/video calls, local travel, outdoor activities, and occasional travel within New Zealand, Oceania, the US, or globally. Some meetings outside regular hours are required.

Application Process

Submit your cover letter and resume via our career page. Include a compelling "Why" statement aligned with the role and our values.

Position open until filled; early applications encouraged.

IFSA is an equal opportunity employer, valuing diversity and inclusion across all aspects of our hiring process.