At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate high-impact academic programmes across England and Wales.
- Company: Join IFSA, a mission-driven non-profit transforming global education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, flexible working, and a collaborative network.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for travel and a commitment to inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape transformative student experiences and make a real impact in international education.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in leadership, strong strategic skills, and experience in UK higher education.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 75000 £ per year.
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.
Location: London (Onsite – IFSA London Centre)
Employment type: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: £75,000 per annum
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
- Custom group programmes 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 to ensure 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 of 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.
Equal Opportunity Statement
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.
Director for England and Wales Programmes (London) employer: The Institute for Study Abroad
The Institute for Study Abroad is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the vibrant city of London. With a strong focus on faculty development and active learning, instructors are encouraged to innovate and engage with students meaningfully. The part-time nature of the role allows for flexibility while being part of a supportive community dedicated to educational excellence.
Contact Details:
The Institute for Study Abroad Recruitment Team
