Director of Admissions

Job Details

Job Location

Fisk University - Nashville, TN

Description

DESCRIPTION :

The Director of Admissions oversees the strategic planning, management, and operations of the Office of Admissions, ensuring the effective recruitment and enrollment of a diverse and talented student body.

This individual will lead a dynamic team, develop data-driven recruitment strategies, manage admissions processes, and collaborate with various campus departments to meet the institution's enrollment goals.

The Director of Admissions reports to the Vice President for Enrollment Management & Student Success.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS :

Strategic Leadership and Planning

• Develop and implement comprehensive recruitment and enrollment strategies that align with institutional goals.
• Lead the admissions team in executing initiatives to attract, evaluate, and enroll prospective students, including first-time freshmen, transfer students, and international applicants.
• Utilize data analytics and market research to identify enrollment trends and inform decision-making.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders, including academic departments, financial aid, marketing, and student affairs, to enhance recruitment and retention efforts.

Operations and Team Management

• Supervise and provide professional development opportunities for the admissions team, ensuring high standards of performance.
• Manage the admissions process, including application reviews, decision-making, and enrollment yield activities.
• Develop and implement effective communications strategies to engage prospective students and their families throughout the admissions cycle.
• Ensure that admissions policies and practices are aligned with institutional goals and comply with legal, ethical, and accreditation standards.

Outreach and Recruitment

• Oversee recruitment events, including campus tours, open houses, and virtual information sessions, to showcase the institution's strengths and opportunities.
• Establish and maintain relationships with high school counselors, community colleges, and community-based organizations to broaden outreach.
• Represent the institution at local, regional, and national recruitment fairs, conferences, and other events.
• Collaborate with marketing teams to create promotional materials and digital campaigns that highlight the institution's unique offerings.

Data Management and Technology

• Oversee the use of technology platforms, including the institution's CRM (e.g., Slate, Ellucian Recruit) to streamline admissions processes and enhance communication with prospective students.
• Monitor and analyze key metrics related to recruitment, admissions, and enrollment, reporting regularly to the Vice President for Enrollment Management & Student Success.
• Ensure data integrity and compliance with all reporting requirements.

Collaboration and Campus Engagement

• Work closely with the financial aid office to develop strategies for leveraging scholarships and financial aid to meet enrollment goals.
• Collaborate with academic and student services departments to ensure a seamless transition from applicant to enrolled student.
• Serve on university-wide committees related to enrollment, student success, and strategic planning.

SECONDARY FUNCTIONS :

Other duties as may be assigned.

SPECIFIC JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES :

• Strong leadership, organizational, and team management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic recruitment plans.
• Experience using CRM systems (e.g., Slate, Ellucian Recruit) and data analytics in admissions processes.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
• Knowledge of national trends in higher education admissions and enrollment.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, results-driven environment.

ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITY :

Provides managerial oversight for the following financial aid office functions : Financial Aid Counselors, Financial Aid Compliance Analyst, Scholarship Coordinator, and Student Workers.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

Education : Bachelor's degree from an accredited college / university; Master's degree in Higher Education, Business Administration, or related field preferred.

Experience : Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in admissions or enrollment management, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.

Additional Requirements : A background and / or credit check will be required of the successful applicant. An official transcript (if applicable) and names, addresses and phone numbers of three (3) references will be required of the successful applicant.

This is a full-time, on-campus position that may require occasional evening and weekend work, as well as travel for recruitment and professional development events.