DIRECTOR for ENGLAND & WALES Programmes
📍 London (Onsite – IFSA London Centre)
💼 Full-time, Permanent
💰 £75,000 per annum
About IFSA
IFSA (Institute for Study Abroad) is a US-based non-profit creating transformative global learning environments. We support students in developing the perspectives, knowledge, and skills needed for future success through high-quality academic programmes in 18 countries and 47 cities worldwide.
Our work is grounded in our commitments:
- Inclusive excellence
- Intercultural agility
- Individualised learning
- Enduring impact
The Opportunity
We are seeking an experienced and strategic leader to serve as Director for England & Wales Programmes. You will bring deep experience in international education, with a strong track record of delivering academic quality, building partnerships, and leading high-performing teams in complex, multi-site environments.
You will lead a high performing team and a high-impact portfolio of programmes, including:
- Direct enrolment (semester and year)
- IFSA-designed programmes
- Summer programmes
- Customs groups throughout the year
This is a pivotal leadership role for a strategic, student and partner focused leader ready to shape high-impact global programmes. You will lead one of IFSA’s most significant portfolios driving academic quality, programme innovation, and growth across England and Wales.
You will shape programme strategy, drive growth, innovation, and operational excellence ensuring an outstanding experience for students and partners.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategy
- Provide strategic leadership for IFSA programmes across England and Wales
- Lead and develop a senior team, fostering high performance and engagement
- Champion a service-oriented approach with students, universities, and partners
- Contribute to organisational strategy and programme growth
Programme Development & Partnerships
- Design and deliver innovative academic and experiential programmes
- Build and strengthen partnerships with universities and industry stakeholders
- Identify and develop new programme opportunities aligned with market needs
- Represent IFSA with partner institutions and at professional events
Operations & Student Experience
- Ensure high-quality programme delivery and student support
- Oversee student services, housing, and co-curricular programming
- Lead on incident response and crisis management in collaboration with internal teams
- Maintain compliance with accreditation and regulatory bodies (e.g. BAC, UKVI, QAA)
Financial & Operational Management
- Lead annual budgeting and manage financial performance
- Oversee programme operations and resource allocation across the portfolio
- Ensure effective systems, processes, and compliance across all sites
About You
You are a collaborative and forward-thinking leader with a strong track record in international or higher education.
Essential:
- Minimum 10 years’ relevant experience, including senior leadership
- Master’s degree
- Experience working in the UK higher education context
- Proven ability to lead teams and manage complex programmes
- Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities
- Experience managing student wellbeing, incidents, and crisis situations
- Right to work in the UK
You bring:
- A data-informed and solution-oriented approach
- High emotional intelligence and adaptability
- A commitment to inclusive practice and working with diverse student populations
- Financial and operational management capability
Why Join IFSA
At IFSA, you’ll be part of a global, mission-driven organisation where your work has real impact.
We offer:
- Professional development opportunities, including potential Butler University tuition remission
- A collaborative global network across the UK, US, and beyond
- A strong commitment to inclusion and continuous improvement
- Flexible working practices and a focus on work–life balance
- The opportunity to shape transformative student experiences
Working Environment
- Primarily office-based in London, with travel to programme locations
- Occasional evening or weekend work required
- Some international travel
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your cover letter and CV for this position via IFSA’s career page: https://www.ifsa-butler.org/connect-with-us/ifsa-job-openings/
In your cover letter, offer a compelling “Why” statement as to your suitability to the role using the job responsibilities and organizational commitments as a framework.
Review of applications will begin immediately, and the position will remain open until filled.
IFSA is an equal opportunity employer, and our hiring process is inclusive of all genders and gender expressions, races and ethnicities, ages, religions and sexualities as well as veterans and people with disabilities.
Contact Details:
Institute For Study Abroad Recruitment Team
