Senior Director, International Programs & Compliance

Harvard University; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous paid time off

Healthcare coverage

Tuition assistance

Commuter benefits

Job summary

The Senior Director of the Harvard International Office at Harvard University provides strategic, operational, and financial leadership for the HIO. You will set the vision, ensure compliance with federal and institutional policies, and build a robust service portfolio for international students, scholars, and staff across the university.

You will lead a diverse, high‑performing team, oversee all HIO operations, and collaborate with campus partners and external counsel to mitigate risk and

Qualifications

• BA/BS required; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum 12–15 years of progressively responsible experience in higher education administration, international education, immigration services, or related field.
• Experience with U.S. immigration regulations affecting students, scholars, or employees.
• Proven leadership experience managing a diverse professional staff (20+ employees).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to convey regulatory issues clearly.

Responsibilities

• Provides strategic leadership and overall management of the Harvard International Office, including visioning, planning, implementation, and assessment of services.
• Leads assessment and continual improvement of HIO policies, programs, and service delivery.
• Develops and executes a comprehensive strategic plan for the HIO.
• Manages day-to-day operations of the HIO and supervises senior leadership and staff.
• Works with Campus Services and external counsel to ensure compliance and risk management.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Regulatory compliance

Team management

Communication skills

Budgeting and financial oversight

Change management

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

BA/BS

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

SEVIS

HR/ERP systems

Job description

The Senior Director of the Harvard International Office at Harvard University provides strategic, operational, and financial leadership for the HIO. You will set the vision, ensure compliance with federal and institutional policies, and build a robust service portfolio for international students, scholars, and staff across the university.

You will lead a diverse, high‑performing team, oversee all HIO operations, and collaborate with campus partners and external counsel to mitigate risk and