Director, Student Affairs and Career Advancement

Department
 

UCPE Leadership Administration

About the Department
 

Innovative, career-driven learning experiences define University of Chicago Professional Education. In our commitment to spread the University's knowledge as broadly as possible, we offer impactful and flexible programs and courses that introduce individual and corporate audiences to up-to-the-minute research, the latest standards in their field, a new professional network, and the University of Chicago's rich intellectual community. Our instructors, seasoned professionals all, deliver unparalleled expertise drawn from years of industry experience. We give our students the tools to succeed in our fast-moving, interconnected world and achieve a competitive edge at any stage of their careers.

Job Summary
 

The Director of Student Affairs is vital in fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment for students pursuing professional education programs and reports directly to the Managing Director of the University of Chicago Professional Education (UCPE). The Director is a critical member of UCPE’s senior staff.

This position's primary focus will be fostering a safe and welcoming learning experience, student retention and persistence, well-being, and career readiness for a diverse, interdisciplinary student body. The Director will collaborate with instructors, staff, and external partners, leading efforts to ensure that students receive comprehensive support throughout their academic journey and beyond, empowering them to achieve their academic, personal, and professional goals. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of UCPE's programs and make a lasting impact on students' educational journey.

The Director of Student Affairs is specifically responsible for the overall leadership, administration, and management of the Student Affairs department.

Responsibilities

• Oversees the Department's day-to-day operations, ensuring efficient and effective outcomes.
• Manages professional staff by establishing annual performance goals, allocating resources, and assessing team performance.
• Curates and sustains a collaborative and inclusive work environment, promoting professional development and ensuring high performance within the team.
• Serves as the first point of contact with the central campus units on behalf of UCPE regarding emergencies and crises involving UCPE-affiliated students.
• Manages budgets and resources, making data-driven decisions to optimize student-centered initiatives.
• Provides metrics and critical insights for Student Affairs to support UCPE’s strategic planning efforts.
• Partners with the Senior Leadership team and other teams within the organization to promote enrollment management efforts as a comprehensive, integrated approach focused on enhancing and improving recruitment, retention, and completion rates at UCPE.
• Collaborates with internal and external stakeholders, including instructors, staff, academic and administrative departments, and industry partners. Fosters strong relationships to support UCPE's goals and enhance the student experience.
• Develops and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion among the Division's students, faculty, and staff.
• Develops and reviews policies and procedures related to student affairs, registration, admissions, and recruitment; monitor and administer processes associated with individual student academic standing, as appropriate, to include probations, suspensions, leaves of absence, or other conduct and grievance matters. Ensures compliance with federal, state, and University regulations and policies.
• Ensures compliance with relevant regulations and standards, and recommends improvements to enhance operational efficiency and student experience.
• Oversees registration systems and related processes to ensure efficient and accurate enrollment management.
• Develops and maintains student records and data, ensuring compliance with University policies and regulations.
• Oversees and facilitates the process of granting Professional Development and Continuing Education Units on behalf of the University. Ensures compliance as outlined by the Illinois State Board of Education.
• Provides strategic oversight of the administration of financial aid and student account reconciliation, including but not limited to financial Negative Service Indicators (NSIs).
• Collaborates with the analytics team to track and assess key enrollment metrics and trends. Analyzes reports to inform decision-making and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborates with relevant departments and IT professionals to maintain and improve the registration system, troubleshoot issues, and implement enhancements. Stays updated on industry best practices and emergi