Director of Accreditation

The Position

Title: Director of Accreditation

Position Type: Full time

Requisition No: 24048

Category: Administration

Supervisor: Dean of Learning and Instruction 

Last Updated: February 2024

Job Purpose: This position leads the accreditation process, ensures compliance with all institutional and specialized accreditation standards, and fosters relentless improvement across all academic and non-academic divisions.

Location: Remote, various locations throughout California

Salary Range: The beginning salary range for this position is Range M-20, (Steps 1-3) $147,295.97 - $162,421.33.

The first review of applications shall occur approximately on April 22, 2024

Position Overview

The Director of Accreditation plays a pivotal role in maintaining and enhancing the quality and integrity of our institution's academic programs. This position is responsible for working cross-functionally to lead the accreditation process, ensuring compliance with all institutional and specialized accreditation standards, and fostering relentless improvement across all academic and non-academic departments. The Director serves as the primary accreditation liaison officer between the institution and accrediting bodies, coordinates the renewal of the accreditation process, including the self-evaluation report and all corresponding evidence,   the site visit, and oversees the submission of all required accreditation annual and ad hoc reports and documentation. This role requires a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of higher education policies, accreditation standards, and a commitment to academic excellence.

 

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities 

The duties below are representative of the role and are not intended to cover all of the duties performed within the scope of work.

• Lead and manage the accreditation process, ensuring compliance with institutional and specialized accreditation standards. 
• Complete all accreditor-required ALO training and certifications 
• Work cross-functionally with institution-wide stakeholders (including student success, marketing, finance, operations, enrollment services, research & development)
• Coordinate the preparation of substantive and non-substantive changes, the self-study evaluation, and renewal cycles, including evidence of compliance with all standards, site visits, and required follow-up reports
• Serve as the primary liaison between the institution and accrediting agencies, maintaining open and effective communication.
• Facilitate training and workshops for faculty and staff on accreditation processes, standards, and best practices.
• Collaborate with administration and appropriate team members to develop and monitor action plans for addressing accreditation recommendations.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of changes (including attending accrediting agencies conferences, workshops, etc.) in accreditation standards and regulations, advising the institution on necessary adjustments.
• Collaborate on developing and implementing an internal review process to ensure ongoing compliance with all standards and substantive and non-substantive change processes.

• Perform other related duties as assigned that support the objective of the position.

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Comprehensive understanding of higher education institutional accreditation processes and standards.
• Strong leadership, management, and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to analyze data, prepare reports, and present findings clearly and effectively.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Knowledge of higher education curriculum development, instructional strategies, and assessment practices.
• Proficiency in using technology for data management and communication.
• Demonstrate understanding of, sensitivity to, and respect for the diverse academic, socio-economic, ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds, disability, and sexual orientation of community college students, staff, and faculty.

 

Minimum Qualifications

• Master's degree in education, administration, or a related field.
• At least five years of experience in higher education administration, with a significant focus on accreditation and academic quality assurance.
• Demonstrated experience in leading accreditation processes and liaising with accrediting agencies.
• Familiarity with online learning environments and accreditation standards related to distance education.
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