JOB POSTS
Executive Director, International Students and Scholars Office
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY IN THE CITY OF NEW YORK
New York, New York, USA (On-site)
$225,000 – $250,000
ABOUT COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY ISSO
The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) at Columbia University delivers expert guidance grounded in regulatory excellence and a deep commitment to serving Columbia's international community. Homed in the Office of the Provost, the ISSO partners closely with schools, departments, Human Resources, Office of the General Counsel, Public Affairs, and senior leadership to ensure institutional compliance and strengthen Columbia as a premier destination for education and research.
POSITION SUMMARY
Reporting to the Vice Provost for Campus Integration, the Executive Director leads the University's ISSO, overseeing immigration advising and institutional regulatory compliance for a large population of international students, faculty, and research scholars. The Executive Director sets ISSO's strategic direction, ensures adherence to all applicable federal immigration requirements, and advances a holistic, University-wide approach to international student and scholar support.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Leadership and Organizational Oversight: Direct and guide all ISSO functions across compliance, visa services, programming, IT and data analytics, and communications. Lead development of training programs and talent strategies. Partner with the Office of the Provost on strategic endeavors related to the international community.
Communications and Operations: Oversee all service delivery channels including websites, phone, Zoom, in-person advising, and the call center. Implement enhancements to systems, workflows, and service models. Oversee ISSO's institutional messaging and communications strategy.
Regulatory Affairs and Institutional Representation: Serve as the University's senior representative on immigration policy and regulatory compliance. Act as primary liaison to US government agencies (DHS, DOL, DOS). Foster strong relationships with international students and organizations. Coordinate with foreign consulates in New York.
Data and Reporting: Oversee ISSO's data systems, ensuring integrity, accuracy, and compliance. Establish rigorous data validation, quality assurance, and audit protocols. Ensure metrics on caseloads and reach of programming are readily available.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree required; advanced degree (Master's, PhD, EdD, JD) required.
8-10 years of related experience, including 8+ years of progressive leadership in international student and scholar services within higher education.
Expertise in immigration regulations including F-1, J-1, H-1B, and other employment-based visa categories, and SEVIS compliance.
Experience overseeing personnel, administrative operations, budgets/finance, and technology systems.
Must be a US citizen or lawful permanent resident to serve as campus Responsible Officer (RO) and Principal Designated School Official (PDSO).
Salary: $225,000 - $250,000 | Full Time | On-site | New York, NY
Job ID: 556032 | Grade 16 | Posted: Mar 16, 2026
HOW TO APPLY
Apply online at Columbia University's careers portal: https://opportunities.columbia.edu/jobs/executive-director-of-the-international-students-and-scholars-office-new-york-united-states
Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran and is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.
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