Executive Director of Undergraduate Admissions

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission. At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth. Here is what we offer:

- Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
- Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
- Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
- Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
- Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

JOB PURPOSE:

Howard University is seeking an innovative and collaborative Executive Director of Undergraduate Admissions to develop, implement, and sustain strategies and tactics that facilitate the recruitment, admission, and matriculation of well-qualified and diverse students to undergraduate programs. Collaborating with campus partners, the Director will develop and implement strategic marketing, recruitment, and admission plans to yield enrollment in undergraduate programs. They will oversee and manage an outcome-oriented undergraduate enrollment team, which will work closely with academic deans, department chairs, and other strategic partners to ensure that admission goals are achieved. The position requires travel, as well as evening and weekend responsibilities. Proficiency with Slate is preferred.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

- Build and maintain educational partnerships with high school counselors, community-based organizations, and other external organizations to increase enrollment in undergraduate programs.

- Lead and supervise an outward-facing and goal-driven undergraduate enrollment team in recruiting, admitting, and yielding qualified and diverse students for current and future undergraduate programs.

- Develop and execute strategies and tactics to proactively engage and yield prospective students and external partnerships to meet targeted enrollment goals. Generate effective communication and candidate tracking tools, including the use of customer relationship management systems (Slate).

- Track, analyze and report on admission metrics and activities to enhance data-informed decision making and improve processes.

- Work effectively and proactively with campus partners to drive enrollment in undergraduate programs.

- Work closely with Department Chairs, Deans, faculty, and other essential staff members in colleges and schools to resolve admission issues and develop and implement proactive plans that will aid students in their pursuit to achieving their educational goals.

- Work closely with the marketing team to develop a comprehensive marketing plan, including an appropriate promotional mix to achieve enrollment objectives.

- Serve on appropriate committees and collaborate closely with key university areas to support learning, persistence, and graduation initiatives.

- Serve on appropriate University committees and task forces.

- This position also collaborates closely with the Offices of Enrollment Systems, Financial Aid, Graduate and Professional Admissions, Registrar, Bursar, and Student Affairs.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

- Demonstrated success working without supervision, taking considerable initiative, collaboratively setting, and attaining performance goals, and managing multiple priorities under tight deadlines

- Committed to providing quality assistance to a socio-economically diverse student population

- Demonstrated ability to provide innovative responsiveness to problem-solving within a team environment

- Process-oriented and able to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment

- Can exercise good judgment when faced with difficult decisions

- Excellent skills in Microsoft Word, Outlook, Microsoft Excel, Power Point.

- Proficient in using CRM and ERP technology. Slate and Ellucian Banner experience preferred

- Must be able to travel and work evenings and other times as deemed necessary for overall operations of the office

- Ability to set priorities and manage multiple high-priority tasks simultaneously

- Strong customer service skills

- Ability to maintain confidentiality and attention to detail are essential

- Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to listen and communicate in a professional and positive manner

- Ability to establish and maintain harmonious and effective work relations with students, staff, faculty, and the public

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

- Masters preferred; Bachelors required in any field 

- 10+ years working in undergraduate admission 

- 5 years managerial experience 

- Strong understanding of the admission cycle, application review process, student recruitment and key industry metrics 

- Experience in developing and implementing strategic initiatives and planning recruitment travel 

- Skill in leading and managing a results-oriented team of recruitment and admissions professionals

- Professional written and oral communication skills.

- Ability to effectively present information to a wide range of constituents, including senior organizational leaders, public groups, and people from diverse cultures and worldviews

- Proficient in Microsoft Office and other basic technology 

- Experience with Technolutions Slate, Argos and Banner 

- Ability to travel both weekdays and weekends- valid driver’s license and passport 

Work Environment: 

- In person

- On Howard University main campus 

- 40 hours per week, generally Monday through Friday, weekends, and evenings as necessary 

- 40% travel throughout year 

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

Expected Salary Range: $ 159,090 - $175,000